How much does a Microbiologist make in the United States?
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The average Microbiologist salary in the United States is $133,293 as of May 01, 2026. The range for our most popular Microbiologist positions (listed below) typically falls between $63,753 and $202,832. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Microbiologist's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
| Microbiologist IV | $135,648 | $65.22 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Microbiologist II | $83,605 | $40.19 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Microbiologist III | $107,161 | $51.52 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Microbiologist I | $72,599 | $34.90 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
| Microbiologist V | $179,448 | $86.27 | United States | May 01, 2026 |
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Identifies, isolates, and studies micro-organisms, bacteria and their byproducts. Tracks environmental microscopic life development and collects samples from a variety of locations. Examines, records, analyzes and interprets data from samples. Requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. View Microbiologist IV SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Microbiologist, Specialist, Microbiologist IV
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Identifies, isolates, and studies micro-organisms, bacteria and their byproducts. Tracks environmental microscopic life development and collects samples from a variety of locations. Examines, records, analyzes and interprets data from samples. Typicially requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. View Microbiologist II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Microbiologist, Experienced, Microbiologist II
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Identifies, isolates, and studies micro-organisms, bacteria and their byproducts. Tracks environmental microscopic life development and collects samples from a variety of locations. Examines, records, analyzes and interprets data from samples. Requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Typically requires 4 to 7 years of related experience. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. View Microbiologist III SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Microbiologist, Senior, Microbiologist III
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Identifies, isolates, and studies micro-organisms, bacteria and their byproducts. Tracks environmental microscopic life development and collects samples from a variety of locations. Examines, records, analyzes and interprets data from samples. Typicially requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. View Microbiologist I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Entry Microbiologist, Microbiologist, Associate, Microbiologist I
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Identifies, isolates, and studies micro-organisms, bacteria and their byproducts. Tracks environmental microscopic life development and collects samples from a variety of locations. Examines, records, analyzes and interprets data from samples. Requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Typically requires 10+ years of related experience. Works on advanced, complex technical projects or business issues requiring state of the art technical or industry knowledge. Works autonomously. Goals are generally communicated in "solution" or project goal terms. May provide a leadership role for the work group through knowledge in the area of specialization. View Microbiologist V SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Microbiologist, Lead/Master, Microbiologist V