Careers · Microbiologists · California
Microbiologists in California
Microbiologists study microscopic organisms including bacteria, algae, and fungi to understand their growth, structure, and characteristics. Medical microbiologists examine how these organisms relate to disease and how antibiotics affect them In California the median pay is $108,530 a year, 23% above the national median of $87,990.
$108,530median pay in California, per year
$80,060–$141,360middle half earn
2,600employed in California
$87,990U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against microbiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against microbiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Who is hiring in California
15open roles like this on employer career sites, 4 in California or remote
4employers hiring
13posted in the last 7 days
CA · MN · WIwhere most openings are
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
ScienceReading ComprehensionWritingCritical ThinkingActive ListeningSpeakingActive LearningJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge areas
BiologyChemistryEnglish LanguageComputers and ElectronicsEducation and TrainingMathematics (knowledge)
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Microbiologists.
Licenses and training in California
Microbiologists pay in other states
Massachusetts · $122,350Maryland · $108,470Georgia · $103,070New Jersey · $96,020Illinois · $92,050Oregon · $89,220Montana · $87,750Connecticut · $86,360North Carolina · $85,860Pennsylvania · $84,650
Related occupations
Biochemists and BiophysicistsZoologists and Wildlife BiologistsBiological Scientists, All OtherBioinformatics ScientistsMolecular and Cellular BiologistsGeneticistsBiologistsAnimal Scientists
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against microbiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against microbiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1022.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, California, annual.