Life As a Microbiologist
Microbiologist Definition 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.
Daily Life Of a Microbiologist
- Prepare technical reports and recommendations based upon research outcomes.
- Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
- Study the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues, cells, pathogens and toxins.
- Conduct chemical analyses of substances such as acids, alcohols, and enzymes.
- Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
- Research use of bacteria and microorganisms to develop vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, grain alcohol, sugars, and polymers.
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What Every Microbiologist Should Know
These are the skills Microbiologists say are the most useful in their careers:
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Types of Microbiologist
- Quality Control Microbiologist (QC Microbiologist)
- Microbiology Supervisor
- Research Microbiologist
- Microbiological Laboratory Technician
- Microbiology Director
Job Opportunities for Microbiologists
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 23,200 jobs in the United States for Microbiologist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 8.2% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 1,900 new jobs for Microbiologist by 2026. The BLS estimates 2,200 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Microbiologist are Nevada, Utah, and New Mexico. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, Oklahoma, or North Dakota. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Average Microbiologists Salary
The average yearly salary of a Microbiologist ranges between $41,820 and $133,550.
Microbiologists who work in California, Maryland, or District of Columbia, make the highest salaries.
How much do Microbiologists make in each U.S. state?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $59,660 |
| Arizona | $75,970 |
| Arkansas | $70,210 |
| California | $102,340 |
| Colorado | $71,860 |
| Connecticut | $75,410 |
| Delaware | $62,470 |
| District of Columbia | $94,630 |
| Florida | $67,650 |
| Georgia | $94,050 |
| Hawaii | $73,870 |
| Idaho | $64,880 |
| Illinois | $62,830 |
| Indiana | $55,370 |
| Iowa | $82,410 |
| Kansas | $53,100 |
| Kentucky | $55,940 |
| Louisiana | $70,000 |
| Maine | $69,890 |
| Maryland | $107,070 |
| Massachusetts | $82,500 |
| Michigan | $61,360 |
| Minnesota | $66,990 |
| Mississippi | $71,720 |
| Missouri | $77,300 |
| Montana | $85,900 |
| Nebraska | $64,380 |
| Nevada | $83,060 |
| New Hampshire | $74,080 |
| New Jersey | $81,720 |
| New Mexico | $50,580 |
| New York | $80,500 |
| North Carolina | $67,050 |
| Ohio | $68,970 |
| Oklahoma | $53,530 |
| Oregon | $66,370 |
| Pennsylvania | $74,780 |
| South Carolina | $59,750 |
| Tennessee | $76,730 |
| Texas | $54,530 |
| Utah | $62,750 |
| Vermont | $58,830 |
| Virginia | $91,940 |
| Washington | $74,660 |
| West Virginia | $51,330 |
| Wisconsin | $62,440 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Microbiologists
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Microbiologists:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Web browser software
- Microsoft Access
- Email software
- Word processing software
- SAP
- Microsoft Windows
- Statistical software
- Laboratory information management system LIMS
- Database management software
- Basic Local Alignment Search Tool BLAST
- PHYLIP
- STARLIMS
- Orchard Software Orchard Harvest LIS
- BD Biosciences CellQuest
- DM2 Bills of Lading
- Protein Explorer
How to Become a Microbiologist
Education needed to be a Microbiologist:
What work experience do I need to become a Microbiologist?
Microbiologists Sector
Microbiologists work in the following industries:
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Microbiologist might also be interested in the following careers:
Are you already one of the many Microbiologist in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
References:
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