As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Microbiologist, Associate in the United States is $58,760 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.
However, a Microbiologist, Associate's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Microbiologist, Associate'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 a Microbiologist, Associate'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 Microbiologist, Associate | $58,272 |
| Intermediate Level Microbiologist, Associate | $58,918 |
| Senior Level Microbiologist, Associate | $60,105 |
| Specialist Level Microbiologist, Associate | $60,342 |
| Expert Level Microbiologist, Associate | $60,500 |
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 Microbiologist, Associates. 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
|
$72,862 |
24%
|
|
Presentation
|
$69,337 |
18%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$67,574 |
15%
|
|
Commitment
|
$63,461 |
8%
|
|
Biochemistry
|
$63,461 |
8%
|
|
Consulting
|
$62,873 |
7%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Microbiologist, Associates 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 a Microbiologist, Associate with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $48,632 and $52,061).
Microbiologist, Associate 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 a Microbiologist, Associate'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 a Microbiologist, Associate, 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 a Microbiologist, Associate 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 Microbiologist, Associate 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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Microbiology in the United States is highly regarded, with top universities like Harvard and Stanford offering advanced programs in molecular microbiology and biotechnology. The salary for an Associate Microbiologist ranges from $47,550 to $60,930, making it a promising field for those pursuing a career in this area.
As of January 15, 2025, the salary for an Associate Microbiologist in the United States ranges from $47,550 to $60,930 annually, with a median salary of $53,510. This reflects a competitive pay scale within the field, highlighting the value of expertise in microbiology.
In the USA, the salary for an Associate Microbiologist ranges from a minimum of $47,550 to a maximum of $60,930, with a median salary of $53,510. This reflects the entry-level to mid-career earnings in the field, providing a competitive compensation structure for professionals in microbiology.
The best field in microbiology often depends on personal interests and job market demand. Careers such as biotechnologist, clinical laboratory scientist, and food technologist are popular. Salaries for microbiologists range from $47,550 to $60,930, with a median salary of $53,510, reflecting the diverse opportunities in this field.
In the USA, the salary for an Associate Microbiologist ranges from a minimum of $47,550 to a maximum of $60,930, with a median salary of $53,510. This reflects a competitive pay scale within the field, offering opportunities for growth and advancement based on experience and expertise.
Yes, there is a shortage of microbiologists, particularly in specialty areas. As of 2023, only 3,433 ASCP-credentialed microbiology specialists were available, with a pass rate of just 63% for the ASCP Board of Certification exam. Salaries for microbiologists range from $47,550 to $60,930, reflecting the demand for qualified professionals in this field.
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