Microbiologist Jobs in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville, Tennessee$66,750 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: June 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Microbiologist Jobs in Knoxville

Looking for a Microbiologist job in Knoxville? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Microbiologist in Knoxville, TN.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Knoxville has a strong job market for Microbiologists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Microbiologist Salary in Knoxville

Entry Level
$41,608
Median
$66,750
Senior Level
$97,232

Microbiologist salaries in Knoxville are 11% below the national average, though the lower cost of living often provides similar purchasing power.

Purchasing power in Knoxville is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

MicrobiologyLaboratory TechniquesQuality ControlData AnalysisFDA Regulations

Microbiologist Job Market in Knoxville

Knoxville, TN is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Microbiologist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Knoxville offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Healthcare leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Microbiologist roles across various sectors. The market for Microbiologist positions remains growing, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Microbiologists in Knoxville

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Microbiologists in Knoxville include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Microbiologists in Knoxville

Living in Knoxville as a Microbiologist means navigating a cost of living that's below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious professionals. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Housing costs are manageable for Microbiologist salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

89
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Microbiologist in Knoxville

Knoxville Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Microbiologists in Knoxville: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Microbiologist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Tennessee

Tennessee has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Microbiologist earning $66,750 would save approximately $3,338 annually. This makes Knoxville attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Microbiologists

The job outlook for Microbiologists in Knoxville is growing. Industry projections suggest 8% growth over the next decade, outpacing many other professions. While the market is smaller, Knoxville offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Microbiology, Laboratory Techniques, Quality Control, Data Analysis.

Relocating to Knoxville

Knoxville's affordable cost of living means your Microbiologist salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Tennessee has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Microbiologist salary in Knoxville, TN?

The average Microbiologist salary in Knoxville, TN is $66,750 per year. Entry-level Microbiologists typically start around $41,608, while experienced professionals can earn $97,232 or more. The national average for Microbiologist roles is $75,000.

How many Microbiologist jobs are available in Knoxville?

Knoxville has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Microbiologist professionals. Major employers hiring Microbiologists include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Healthcare and Education sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Knoxville a good city for Microbiologists?

Knoxville is an solid choice for Microbiologists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's healthcare industry creates strong demand for science professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Microbiologists in Knoxville?

Top skills for Microbiologists in Knoxville include Microbiology, Laboratory Techniques, Quality Control, Data Analysis, FDA Regulations. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Relevant certifications like ASM certification can strengthen your candidacy.

What is the cost of living for Microbiologists in Knoxville?

Knoxville's cost of living is below the national average (89% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Knoxville is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Microbiologists in Knoxville?

Knoxville Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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