As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a Microbiologist II in the United States is $72,796 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, a Microbiologist II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Microbiologist II'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 II'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Microbiologist I | 0-2 years | $58,748 |
| Microbiologist II | 2-4 years | $72,796 |
| Microbiologist III | 4-7 years | $83,100 |
| Microbiologist IV | 7+ years | $93,552 |
| Microbiologist V | 7-10 years | $133,884 |
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 IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 10.24% |
| Quality Control | 3.65% |
| Laboratory Equipment | 1.86% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Coordination
|
$83,715 |
15%
|
|
Commitment
|
$79,348 |
9%
|
|
Leadership
|
$78,620 |
8%
|
|
Team Operations
|
$78,620 |
8%
|
|
Presentation
|
$77,892 |
7%
|
|
Authenticity
|
$77,164 |
6%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Microbiologist IIs 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 II with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $64,911 and $69,851).
Microbiologist II Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.2% |
| High School | 1.2% |
| Associates | 23.8% |
| Bachelors | 70.2% |
| Masters | 23.8% |
| Doctorate | 4.8% |
Understanding how a Microbiologist II'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 March 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Microbiologist II, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Biologist III | $83,438 | 15% |
| Geologist III | $85,681 | 18% |
| Geophysicist III | $141,295 | 94% |
| Microbiologist III | $83,100 | 14% |
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A Microbiologist II's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Microbiologist II earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Microbiologist II is $91,818.
The highest pay for Microbiologist II is $85,806.
The lowest pay for Microbiologist II is $54,920.
Identifies, isolates, and studies micro-organisms, bacteria and their byproducts. Tracks environmental microscopic life development and collects samples from a variety of locations. Examines, records, analyzes and interprets data from samples. Typicially requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work.
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.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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