Microbiologists
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
Median pay: $87,990/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +4.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 1,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
• Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
• Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
• Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
• Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
• Use a variety of specialized equipment, such as electron microscopes, gas and high-pressure liquid chromatographs, electrophoresis units, thermocyclers, fluorescence-activated cell sorters, and phosphorimagers.
• Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations, based upon research outcomes.
What's the median pay for Microbiologists?
The median pay for Microbiologists is $87,990 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Microbiologists?
Employment for Microbiologists is projected to change +4.1% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Microbiologists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Microbiologists?
About 1,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.