As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Microbiologist, Lead/Master in the United States is $133,900 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $64.
However, a Microbiologist, Lead/Master's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Microbiologist, Lead/Master'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, Lead/Master'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Microbiologist | 0-2 years | $58,745 |
| Microbiologist, Experienced | 2-4 years | $72,811 |
| Microbiologist, Senior | 4-7 years | $83,096 |
| Microbiologist, Specialist | 7+ years | $93,530 |
| Microbiologist, Lead/Master | 7-10 years | $133,876 |
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, Lead/Masters. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 10.06% |
| Data Entry | 3.42% |
| Laboratory Equipment | 1.67% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Team Operations
|
$182,104 |
36%
|
|
Food Safety
|
$163,358 |
22%
|
|
Coordination
|
$163,358 |
22%
|
|
Process Improvement
|
$159,341 |
19%
|
|
Quality Assurance
|
$155,324 |
16%
|
|
Commitment
|
$155,324 |
16%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Microbiologist, Lead/Masters enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree 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, Lead/Master with a Bachelor's Degree is between $111,896 and $126,270).
Microbiologist, Lead/Master Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.3% |
| High School | 1.3% |
| Associates | 1.3% |
| Bachelors | 16.0% |
| Masters | 22.7% |
| Doctorate | 58.7% |
Understanding how a Microbiologist, Lead/Master'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 May 01, 2026Salaries for a Microbiologist, Lead/Master can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $135,095 in 2023 to around $123,443 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Microbiologist, Lead/Master salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $135,095 |
| 2024 | $126,864 |
| 2025 | $123,443 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Pursuing a master's in microbiology can be worthwhile, as it opens doors to diverse career paths such as biomedical scientist, microbiologist, or researcher. With salaries ranging from $96,000 to $144,700, the investment in education can lead to significant financial rewards and professional growth in the field.
A good salary for a microbiologist with a master's degree in the USA typically ranges from $96,000 to $144,700 annually, with a median salary around $124,600. This reflects the higher earning potential associated with advanced degrees, surpassing the average earnings for those with only a bachelor's degree.
Among the highest-paying doctoral degrees in the USA, a PhD in Microbiology stands out, particularly for roles like Lead/Master Microbiologist. Salaries in this field range from a minimum of $96,000 to a mid-level of $124,600, with top earners making up to $144,700. This makes it a lucrative option for those pursuing advanced studies in microbiology.
Graduates with a PhD in microbiology can expect a salary range of $96,000 to $144,700, with a mid-salary of $124,600. Career opportunities include research and teaching, reflecting the demand for expertise in this field.
The highest paying career in Microbiology is that of a Lead/Master Microbiologist, with salaries ranging from $96,000 to $144,700 annually. The average salary for this role is approximately $124,600, making it one of the most lucrative positions in the field.
A Master’s in Microbiology in the USA can expect to earn between $96,000 and $144,700 annually. The average salary is around $124,600, with top earners making up to $144,700. This reflects a competitive salary range for professionals in this field, highlighting the value of advanced education and expertise in microbiology.
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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