Microbiologist Jobs in USA
Kickstart your career in microbiology jobs with this hands-on Microbiologist position at MPHI in Lansing, Michigan. Work in the Food, Enteric, and STI Unit performing advanced bacterial and parasitic analyses, while gaining practical experience in molecular techniques, MALDI-TOF, and qPCR testing. This role is ideal for Jobs for Life Science Graduates seeking meaningful biological science job experience in the USA.
About the Company
MPHI is a nationally engaged, Michigan-based non-profit public health institute dedicated to improving public health. Working with MDHHS, MPHI combines expert teams and advanced laboratory technology to address critical health challenges, ensuring that Jobs for Life Science Graduates offer meaningful impact and career growth in microbiology.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Microbiologist – Food, Enteric and STI Unit
- Requisition ID: 4773
- Location: Lansing, MI (100% In-Person Laboratory)
- Job Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt
- Application Deadline: December 26, 2025
- Salary Range: $25.03 – $42.18/hour
- Funding End Date: September 30, 2027
Microbiologist Position Purpose
This position functions as a Microbiologist in the Food, Enteric and STI Unit within the Microbiology Section of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Bureau of Laboratories. The role supports the diagnosis of human disease through bacteriological, parasitological, and molecular testing of clinical, environmental, and food specimens. Work includes handling high-consequence pathogens in a BSL-3 laboratory environment.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
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Specimen Testing (50%)
- Process and analyze specimens for microbiological examination
- Perform culture, staining, microscopy, biochemical, serologic, MALDI-TOF, qPCR, and molecular testing
- Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment
-
Quality Control & Compliance (10%)
- Perform QC testing of reagents, kits, and assays
- Maintain control charts and participate in proficiency testing
- Support CAP and ISO 17025 accreditation requirements
- Participate in laboratory quality improvement initiatives
-
Method Development (10%)
- Evaluate, develop, and implement laboratory methods
- Draft and revise written laboratory procedures
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Food Testing Projects (25%)
- Assist with food testing studies, method validation, and reporting
- Support food-related exercises and investigations
-
Additional Duties (5%)
- Prepare reagents and manage inventory
- Maintain laboratory equipment
- Participate in studies and research activities
- Perform other duties as assigned
Education for Microbiologist Job
- Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Molecular Biology, or Biological Sciences
Experience
-
- Minimum of 1 year of clinical laboratory and/or food testing experience
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong communication skills
- High attention to detail and organizational ability
- Creativity, flexibility, and initiative
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Commitment to quality and public health service
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Work with human specimens using universal precautions
- Required PPE: lab coat, gloves, eye protection, N-95 respirator or CAPR
- Extended work in Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs)
- Repetitive pipetting, standing, walking, bending, and lifting (<40 lbs)
- Operation of incubators, water baths, fume hoods, and autoclaves
- Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods
