As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for an Entry Microbiologist in the United States is $58,800 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.
However, an Entry Microbiologist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Entry Microbiologist's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Entry Microbiologist's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Entry Microbiologist | $58,315 |
| Intermediate Level Entry Microbiologist | $58,958 |
| Senior Level Entry Microbiologist | $60,145 |
| Specialist Level Entry Microbiologist | $60,382 |
| Expert Level Entry Microbiologist | $60,540 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Entry Microbiologists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 9.74% |
| Chemistry | 3.58% |
| Laboratory Equipment | 1.8% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Team Operations
|
$72,912 |
24%
|
|
Presentation
|
$69,384 |
18%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$67,620 |
15%
|
|
Commitment
|
$63,504 |
8%
|
|
Biochemistry
|
$63,504 |
8%
|
|
Consulting
|
$62,916 |
7%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Entry Microbiologists enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an Entry Microbiologist with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $48,685 and $52,119).
Entry Microbiologist Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.0% |
| High School | 1.0% |
| Associates | 3.1% |
| Bachelors | 71.1% |
| Masters | 17.0% |
| Doctorate | 7.7% |
Understanding how an Entry Microbiologist's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Entry Microbiologist, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Crop Scientist | $67,400 | 15% |
| Intermediate Biologist | $66,900 | 14% |
| Intermediate Geologist | $69,000 | 17% |
| Intermediate Geophysicist | $104,400 | 78% |
Salaries for an Entry Microbiologist can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $54,738 in 2023 to around $54,504 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Entry Microbiologist salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $54,738 |
| 2024 | $54,710 |
| 2025 | $54,504 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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1. Collect samples from various sources like soil, water, and humans. 2. Analyze these samples to identify microorganisms. 3. Conduct experiments to study microbial behavior. 4. Write reports detailing findings and methodologies. 5. Collaborate with other scientists and professionals. Entry-level microbiologists can expect salaries ranging from $47,600 to $61,000.
Yes, microbiologists are in demand in the USA, with an estimated 20,900 professionals currently in the field. The job market for microbiologists is projected to grow by 5.3% from 2022 to 2032. Entry-level microbiologists can expect salaries ranging from $47,600 to $61,000, with a median salary of $53,600.
Microbiologists study the growth and characteristics of microscopic organisms like viruses. To enter the field, a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related discipline is typically required. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree or Ph.D. Entry-level salaries range from $47,600 to $61,000, with a median salary of $53,600.
The salary for an entry-level microbiologist in the US ranges from $47,600 to $61,000, with a median salary of $53,600. While PhD holders may earn more, entry-level positions typically start within this range. Career opportunities include research and teaching, with potential for higher earnings as experience increases.
Microbiology is a rewarding career with a salary range for entry-level positions between $47,600 and $61,000, depending on experience and location. This field is vital, as microbiologists analyze microorganisms to combat diseases, develop agricultural products, and contribute to environmental health, making it both impactful and fulfilling.
In the USA, the salary for an entry-level microbiologist ranges from $47,600 to $61,000 annually, with a median salary of $53,600. This reflects the starting pay for those entering the field, while more experienced microbiologists can earn significantly higher salaries.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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