Microbiologists

SOC code 19-1022 · O*NET-SOC 19-1022.00 · Considerable preparation needed · Science and engineering

Microbiologists pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$87,990

a year

Hourly

$42.30

per hour

10th$54,670Median$87,99090th$150,000

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$97,600

$46.92 per hour

Middle 50%

$67,100 – $122,350

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$54,670 – $150,000

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

18,940

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $54,670; $26.28/hr
25th percentile: $67,100; $32.26/hr
Median percentile: $87,990; $42.30/hr
75th percentile: $122,350; $58.82/hr
90th percentile: $150,000; $72.12/hr

Job outlook · federal projection 2024–34

+4%

Growing faster than average

20,700

jobs in 2024

21,600

projected for 2034

About 900 more jobs

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, 2024–34. Projections describe the broader occupation group and are estimates, not guarantees.

What does a microbiologist do?

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.

The tasks that matter most day to day

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.

How to become a microbiologist

Most people in this role hold bachelor's degree — 64% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 4 — Considerable preparation needed

Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

See all zone 4 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

Bachelor's Degree64%
Master's Degree14%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree9%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate9%

Common questions

How much does a microbiologist earn?

The national median is $87,990 a year. The full range runs from $54,670 at the 10th percentile to $150,000 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a microbiologist without a degree?

Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 4, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.

Is microbiologist in demand?

Federal projections expect employment to grow by about 4% between 2024 and 2034 — growing faster than average. Openings also come from people retiring or changing jobs, which the growth figure does not count.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Science4.6/5
Reading Comprehension4.1/5
Writing4.0/5
Critical Thinking4.0/5
Active Listening3.9/5
Speaking3.9/5
Active Learning3.9/5
Learning Strategies3.6/5

Knowledge areas

Biology4.7/5
Chemistry3.8/5
English Language3.6/5
Computers and Electronics3.6/5
Education and Training3.5/5
Mathematics3.3/5
Engineering and Technology3.0/5
Administrative2.9/5

Transferable strengths: Judgment and Decision Making.