OCCUPATIONAL
PROFILE
Microbiologist
(19-1022.00)
At-a-Glance Statistics
_	Bacteriologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Clinical Microbiologist, Microbiological
oampie Analyst, Microbiological Laboratory Technician, Microbiologist, Microbiology
Job Titles Director, Microbiology Laboratory Manager, Quality Control Microbiologist (QC
Microbiologist), Study Director
Key Tasks
Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in
prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature,
and nutrition.
Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria
and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant,
and animal health.
Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using
microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and
food specimens.
Provide laboratory services for health departments, for community
environmental health programs, and for physicians needing information for
diagnosis and treatment.
Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the
control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
Prepare technical reports and recommendations based upon research
outcomes.
Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect
harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution,
contamination, or infection.
Observe action of microorganisms upon living tissues of plants, higher
animals, and other microorganisms, and on dead organic matter.
Study the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues, cells,
pathogens and toxins.
All data sourced from 0*NET OnLine (2018) https./Avww onetonline.org/.

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Education and Training Top Industries
Bachelor's
Degree
48%
Post-
baccalaureate
certificate
17%
Master's
Degree
13%
Median Wages
Hourly
$34.45
EH
Annually
$71,650
ft
Government
Professional, Scientific,
and Technical Services
Number Employed

22,000 positions
2,100 job openings
Top Ten States for Occupational Percentage Growth
UT AZ CO FL NE NY NC MO VA TX

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