Position
Salary
A microbiologist typically earns a yearly salary that ranges from $36,660 to $133,500. The average salary for this role is $64,017 per year. This range shows how much experience and specific skills can affect a microbiologist's salary.
The salary often increases with more education and experience. For example, those who have been in the field for many years can earn more. Also, working in certain industries like pharmaceuticals can lead to higher salaries. Job seekers should focus on gaining experience and getting advanced degrees to improve their earning potential.

San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $119,670
In San Jose, science and technology intersect. Companies like Illumina and BioFire Defense focus on biotech. Workers analyze microbial data to improve health and technology.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $111,566
Atlanta offers opportunities in healthcare and research. Centers like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) look for experts. Employees here help find ways to keep people safe from diseases.
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Durham, NC
Average Salary: $90,110
Durham is home to research giants like Duke University. Scientists here work on cutting-edge projects. They help find new ways to fight diseases and improve health.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $89,937
Spokane values its natural beauty and clean environment. Local firms like the Spokane Regional Health District hire for research roles. Experts here play a key part in community health.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $86,662
Boston has a rich history in science. Institutions like Harvard and MIT offer many jobs. Workers here contribute to groundbreaking research in disease prevention.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $83,563
Los Angeles is a city of diversity and innovation. Companies like Amgen look for professionals. Employees here develop new ways to combat diseases.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $79,311
Chicago offers a bustling environment for scientific growth. Employers like AbbVie look for skilled researchers. Workers here focus on developing new treatments and cures.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $74,867
San Diego is a hub for biotech and research. Firms like Illumina and Salk Institute offer exciting opportunities. Employees here work on projects to advance human health.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $74,375
Minneapolis values health and innovation. Employers like 3M and Mayo Clinic offer diverse roles. Workers here focus on improving health outcomes through research.
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Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $66,948
Allentown has a growing biotech scene. Companies like Teva Pharmaceuticals offer promising roles. Employees here work to develop new medical solutions.
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Heluna Health
Average Salary: $80,922
Heluna Health offers Microbiologist jobs with a focus on public health. They work in California, providing essential services. Opportunities exist in research and healthcare.
Kelly
Average Salary: $75,821
Kelly provides diverse Microbiologist positions. They serve many industries in the U.S. They offer jobs in both research and clinical settings.
Colgate-Palmolive
Average Salary: $73,759
At Colgate-Palmolive, Microbiologists work to ensure product safety. The company operates globally with a strong presence in the U.S.
Alabama Department of Public Health
Average Salary: $67,627
The Alabama Department of Public Health employs Microbiologists in state-level health initiatives. They focus on public health and safety.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Average Salary: $65,799
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania offers Microbiologist roles focused on state health services. They operate across the state of Pennsylvania.
West Valley Medical Center
Average Salary: $65,010
West Valley Medical Center provides opportunities for Microbiologists in healthcare. They are located in California, offering clinical roles.
Abbott
Average Salary: $64,115
Abbott is a global leader with Microbiologist positions in healthcare and diagnostics. They operate worldwide with a strong focus on innovation.
Momentum Staffing Group
Average Salary: $63,400
Momentum Staffing Group offers temporary and permanent Microbiologist jobs. They have placements across various industries in the U.S.
State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $53,191
The State of New Mexico provides Microbiologist roles focused on state health services. They serve communities across the state of New Mexico.
Mérix NutriSciences
Average Salary: $45,065
Mérix NutriSciences offers Microbiologist jobs in food safety and quality control. They operate internationally, with significant presence in the U.S.
Microbiologists can increase their earnings by focusing on specific factors that impact their salary. These factors are practical and achievable with dedication and strategic planning. One key factor is acquiring advanced degrees or certifications. A master’s or Ph.D. often leads to higher-paying roles and more responsibility. Continuing education in specialized areas can also enhance earning potential.
Experience and expertise play a crucial role as well. Microbiologists with several years in the field and proven experience often command higher salaries. Working in high-demand industries such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology can also provide better compensation. Networking and building professional relationships can uncover opportunities that lead to higher-paying positions. Lastly, seeking positions in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living can offer more competitive salaries. Strategic choices in education, experience, industry, networking, and location can significantly boost a microbiologist's earnings.
Consider the following factors to increase earnings as a microbiologist: