Microbiologist Role at Commonwealth of Pennsylvania USA
Kickstart your career with this microbiology job as a Microbiologist I at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Join the Department of Environmental Protection to work in bacteriology, plankton, and protozoan laboratories, contributing to critical water quality research and environmental protection initiatives.
Job Details:
- Location: Dauphin County, PA
- Salary: $26.57 Hourly
- Job Type: Civil Service Limited Term Full-Time
- Worksite Address: 2575 Interstate Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17110
- Union/Bargaining Unit: AFSCME, B4
- Work Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday–Friday (30-minute lunch)
- Telework: Not available
- Job Number: CS-2026-41240-32410
- Position Number: 50694209
- Closing Date: 02/08/2026, 11:59 PM Eastern
About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania:
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is committed to safeguarding the environment and public health through science-driven initiatives. As part of the Department of Environmental Protection, the Bureau of Laboratories offers a collaborative and innovative work environment for microbiologists. Employees gain hands-on experience in bacteriology, plankton, and protozoan analysis while contributing to critical environmental research and protection programs. Explore more microbiology job offers.
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in microbiology or
- Bachelor’s degree with 20 credits in microbiology, cellular biology, molecular biology, or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or biochemistry
- Applicants within 3 months of graduation are eligible
Key Responsibilities of Microbiologist Role:
- Prepare, receive, and log environmental water and wastewater samples
- Conduct analyses for sanitary indicator bacteria, plankton, and pathogenic protozoans
- Execute concentration, isolation, and purification processes according to established protocols
- Use methodologies such as chromogenic/fluorogenic enzyme assays, membrane filtration, heterotrophic plate counts, and microscopic examination
- Support the Biological Services Section and manage data entry tasks
- Assist during harmful algal bloom season with environmental sample analysis
Skills Required for Microbiologist Role:
- Strong laboratory and analytical skills in microbiology
- Attention to detail for accurate data management
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a lab setting
- Knowledge of water and wastewater testing procedures
- Familiarity with microbiology lab equipment and safety protocols
Benefits of the Microbiologist Role:
- Competitive hourly pay of $26.57
- Hands-on experience in environmental microbiology
- Opportunity to contribute to public health and environmental protection
- Work in a supportive, science-driven team environment
- Gain exposure to advanced laboratory techniques in bacteriology, plankton, and protozoan analysis
