Over the years, the surging need for advanced medicinal technology has paved the way for the rise of the Biotechnology sector and job market. With a median salary ranging from ~₹50,71,997 to ~₹78,15,865, the Biotechnology field has become one of the most popular among foreign students.
The American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) pays an average salary of ~₹1,01,62,453 per annum. It suggests a hike in the biotechnologist salary in USA in the coming years.
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So, it is undeniable that the field of Biotechnology is on the rise and can provide a lucrative career after a bachelor’s or master’s degree, but with the many choices, it can get confusing.
Here we are with a comprehensive guide on the top locations and positions that offer the best Biotechnologist Salary In USA.
Biotechnologist Salary in USA 2024: Key Facts & Figures
Owing to the growing demand for medicinal technology, the biotechnology industry in the USA has shown visible growth. Attracting more students and foreign employees, the industry is booming with more job opportunities.
Given below are the latest facts on the field of biotechnology in the USA.
- On average, the biotechnologist salary in USA is ~₹53,68,002. Apart from the annual salary, biotechnologist salary in USA also includes an additional cash compensation of ~₹9,03,480 per year.
- The total number of Biotechnology employees in the USA has increased 5.2% on average over the past five years from 2018 to 2023. By 2023, the number has peaked at a total of 4,08,376 people.
- Compared to 2022, a 7% increase has been shown in the number of Biotechnology businesses in the USA. There are 3,429 Biotechnology businesses established in the USA as of 2023.
- The average business in the Biotechnology industry in the USA is now hiring more workers than it did five years ago. The average number of employees in each sector is 93.6. The revenue per employee has also increased in the last five years.
- The Biotechnology industry in the US is ranked 14th in the Healthcare and Social Assistance industry by employment, whereas it is ranked 96th largest in the USA.
- According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, by 2026, there will be a shortage of 1.5 million scientists and engineers in the United States alone. This opens up the possibility for future job vacancies for students and foreign nationals.
Now that we know some key facts about the United States Biotechnology sector and how Biotechnologists are in demand let’s get into a detailed analysis of the biotechnologist salary in USA.
Biotechnologist Salary In USA: Based on Specialisation
Biotechnologists can apply for a range of key positions in the market, from biomedical technicians to producing biomedical equipment.
The United States Biotechnology market has a high demand for such specialists, especially after the pandemic when the demand for medicines surged.
Below are some primary positions that Biotechnology graduates can take up to command a great biotechnologist salary in USA.
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Clinical Technician
A clinical technician collects and processes research specimens or medical samples. As a clinical technician, you need to work in laboratory environments and need knowledge of how different testing equipment works.
A professional clinical technician must also set up testing conditions, sterilise scientific tools, use robotic machinery, and perform sample collection and labelling activities.
The eligibility criteria for a clinical technician position is a Biotechnology bachelor’s degree or associate degree in the related fields.
The average Biotechnologist salary in USA for this position is ~₹40,08,374 per year. The salary comprises base pay (excluding other benefits) and additional pay. A breakdown of the biotechnologist salary in USA is given below.
| Payment Category | Average Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
| Base Pay | ₹38,53,304 |
| Additional Pay | ₹1,55,070 |
The additional pay of the biotechnologist salary in USA includes cash bonuses, commission, tips, and profit sharing received by the employee every year.
Biomedical Technician
Biomedical equipment needs proper installation, calibration, and operational supervision. This is where the role of a biomedical equipment technician comes into play.
They inspect the equipment, calibrate it according to predefined standards, install required software updates, and make hardware adjustments.
The minimum qualification you need for this post is an associate’s degree in a related field. The median salary for this position in the USA is ~₹47,33,504 annually.
A breakdown of the biotechnologist salary in USA for a biomedical technician is given below.
| Payment Category | Average Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
| Base Pay | ₹43,27,245 |
| Additional Pay | ₹4,06,341 |
Base pay is the fixed annual salary the employee receives, whereas additional pay varies every year depending on the tips, commissions, or bonuses received within the biotechnologist salary in USA.
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Biomanufacturing Specialists
The biomanufacturing sector has been booming due to the increased demand for medical equipment and surgical instruments. Medicine development is also an essential sector where biomanufacturing specialists can access great opportunities.
Take the example of COVID-19 vaccine production, where the demand for bio manufacturers hiked rapidly.
The minimum eligibility requirement for biomanufacturing specialists is a doctorate degree with two years of experience in a relevant field or an MS in biomedical engineering with four years of experience.
The median salary for this position is ~₹53,99,598 per year in the US. Check the table below for more details of the biotechnologist salary in USA for this position.
| Payment Category | Average Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
| Base Pay | ₹45,69,287 |
| Additional Pay | ₹8,30,310 |
The additional payment in the biotechnologist salary in USA for Biomanufacturing Specialists is higher than those provided for other positions in the field.
Microbiologists
Microbiologists are professionals who research microorganisms to deduce how they interact with the surrounding environment. As a Microbiologist, you plan experiments, conduct them, and even supervise a team of technicians on experimental projects.
Microbiologists often work in cross-disciplinary project teams related to molecular biology and medicine.
The minimum qualification for a microbiologist is a bachelor’s degree in microbiology.
The median salary for this position is ~₹54,87,735 per year. The table below shows the basic biotechnologist salary in USA for Microbiologists and the additional cash compensation provided in the USA.
| Payment Category | Average Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
| Base Pay | ₹53,73,324 |
| Additional Pay | ₹2,60,002 |
Now that we have discussed key positions that offer higher salaries, it’s time to look at other factors that may affect Biotechnologist’ salary in USA.
Biotechnologist Salary In USA: Based on Skills
In addition to the cash compensation you receive as a biotechnologist in the USA, there are other elements you could use to increase your biotechnologist salary in USA. Acquiring specific work skills related to your field is the most effective.
When it comes to Biotechnology skills in demand, salary surveys place Research Analysis and Product Development skills at the top of the chart. Other skills that make it to the list according to salary survey data are GMP Compliance, Microbiology, and others.
Research Analysis
Research Analysis is a high-demand work skill for a biotechnologist in the USA. It relates to deep research on Biotechnology-related experiments.
For example, you can gain research skills in genetic engineering or DNA sequencing, which can help you draw a massive salary.
The biotechnologist salary in USA for an employee with research analysis skills is ~₹54,04,587.
GMP Compliance
GMP, or Good Manufacturing Practice, is a set of standards and guidelines that ensures the safety, quality, and consistency of products made in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries.
GMP documentation and records are integral for demonstrating compliance, improving the process, and tracing problems in these fields.
With GMP compliance skills, you can join the biomanufacturing ecosystem and have a bright career across North America. Countries like Canada and the United States of America offer great opportunities for applicants with GMP compliance skills in the pharma manufacturing industry.
The average biotechnologist salary in USA for a worker with skills in GMP Compliance is ~₹63,40,662 per annum.
Microbiology
Microbiology skills are among the most rewarding skill sets for a biotechnologist. It includes the study of the behaviors of microorganisms in specific environments, their DNA analysis, and more.
Countries like the USA, Canada, Mexico, the UK, and others provide great opportunities in medical care and lab technician jobs for applicants with a degree in Microbiology.
On average, the biotechnologist salary in USA for a microbiologist ranges between ~₹43,23,670 and ~₹66,51,800 per year.
Biotechnologist Salary In USA: Based on Experience
Another important aspect that affects a Biotechnologist salary in USA is the experience level. Experience adds to expertise. Once you work in a sector for a longer period, it helps you flourish your skills in the field, and you become more reliable.
Employers often opt for workers with a higher level of experience. Your salary also varies depending on if you are an Entry-level Biotechnologist, a Mid-level Biotechnology, or a Senior-level Biotechnology.
The table below shows the biotechnologist salary in USA according to their experience level.
| Years of Experience | Average Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
| 0-1 Years | ₹56,24,180 |
| 1-3 Years | ₹60,25,449 |
| 4-6 Years | ₹65,09,285 |
| 7-9 Years | ₹69,64,933 |
| 10-14 Years | ₹78,27,339 |
| 15+ Years | ₹96,53,923 |
Although level of experience is an important asset, there are other elements you need to consider while working as a biotechnologist. This includes work location, area of specialisation, and work skills.
Biotechnologist Salary In USA: Based on Location
As a Biotechnologist in the USA, the city you work in makes an evident difference in your annual salary. The average salary of a city or state varies according to its minimum wage policies and living wages.
Choosing the best location for a biotechnologist in the USA is by opting for the highest-paying cities in the country. Below is the list of top-paying cities with high biotechnologist salary in USA.
| Name of the City | Average Annual Salary in INR (Approx.) |
| Richmond | ₹54,20,967 |
| Sane Jose | ₹50,95,361 |
| Santa Clara | ₹50,95,361 |
| Fremont | ₹50,82,390 |
| San Francisco | ₹50,75,073 |
| Daly City | ₹50,75,073 |
| Oakland | ₹49,53,262 |
| Berkeley | ₹49,53,262 |
| Hayward | ₹49,43,534 |
Some of the highest paying states for biotechnologist salary in USA are California (~₹95,19,000), Washington (~₹78,79,000) and Maryland (~₹72,99,000).
Biotechnologist Salary In USA: Top Companies
Being a biotechnologist in the USA, you can work for private and public companies. Your average salary varies from ~₹50,71,997 to ~₹78,15,865, according to the field you are working for.
Below is the list of top 10 Biotech companies in the USA you can work for.
- Gilead Sciences
- Celgene Corporation
- Amgen
- Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc.
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals
- Biogen Inc.
- Illumina Inc.
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
- Agilent Technologies
- Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc.
Working in private companies can help you get a more attractive salary package and open up wide professional networks.
How to Become a Biotechnologist in USA?
Becoming a biotechnologist in USA is a promising career. To become a biotechnologist in the USA, you must study 7-10 years.
Biotechnologists study the genetic and physical characteristics of organisms. Being a biotechnologist, you create and improve products and processes in agriculture and medicine. As a result, Biotechnologists require excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Below are the basic requirements to become a biotechnologist in the USA.
1. Earn a Bachelor’s degree
To become a biotechnologist in the USA or any other country, the first requirement is to have a degree in the field. You can have a degree in biotechnology or similar fields, such as biology, biochemistry, environmental engineering, or engineering.
Opting for a program with more science courses and laboratory experience will add to your career. This is a must, especially if you are looking for lab work in the future.
The average duration of the course is 3-4 years.
Once you complete your bachelor’s in the field, you can work as a biotechnologist. However, continuing your studies will only boost your career.
2. Complete Internship
Most bachelor programs in the Biotechnology field provide internships between your courses. This helps you get to work in the field and experience the work in detail. If your program does not include an internship, you have to complete it independently.
3. Get a Master’s or Certification
Although a Bachelor’s is the minimum requirement for a Biotechnologist in the USA, earning a master’s will increase your expertise in the field.
In addition to that, it allows you to specialise in any particular field, such as biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical research, or bioinformatics.
Specialising in any particular field will increase your average annual salary. For example, the average biotechnologist salary in USA for a Biomedical Specialist is ~₹53,99,598 per year.
The average duration of the course is 1-2 years.
4. Doctorate
Earning a doctorate degree is essential only if you wish to work in academics. To become a professor of Biotechnology or related fields, you need to complete your doctorate.
A doctoral degree also helps if your work position involves research or managing other biotechnologists.
The average duration of the course is 3-4 years.
Top Universities for Biotechnology in the USA
The USA is always one of the top study-abroad options for foreign students. Biotechnology being among the high-salaried professions, it is also one of the popular courses in the country.
More than 40 Biotechnology programs are available in the USA for students. It also hosts some of the most prestigious institutions in the world.
Therefore, studying Biotechnology in the USA is a good option since it provides a good career path. The table below shows the list of top universities for Biotechnology in the USA and their overall ranking.
| Name of University | Average Annual Tuition Fees in INR (Approx.) |
| Harvard University | ₹50,88,000 |
| Stanford University | ₹35,61,000 |
| John Hopkins University | ₹49,98,000 |
| University of Pennsylvania | ₹41,62,000 |
| Cornell University | ₹17,19,000 |
| University of California | ₹40,59,000 |
| Yale University | ₹49,29,000 |
| Columbia University | ₹45,43,000 |
| University of Michigan | ₹46,20,000 |
| New York University | ₹30,74,000 |
Final Thoughts
The COVID-19 scenario opens up several important job possibilities for a biotechnologist. From developing new vaccines to resisting new pandemics, the scope and demand for a biotechnologist only rises.
Biotechnologists do not need any licensing for work. However, attending the Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam will be an asset for your career as employers recognise it throughout the industry. The exam tests your knowledge in the field of biotechnology, such as research methods, laboratory skills, chemistry, and lab safety.
Biotechnology is also a promising career because of the new specialisations developing in the field and researchers continuing to make new scientific breakthroughs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the USA a good option for a Master’s in Biotechnology?
The USA is a good option for a Master’s degree in Biotechnology. The best part about this program is that you get exposure to many of the world’s top universities and research centres. This makes you an expert in your field when you graduate. Also, the biotechnology career is highly salaried and reputed in the USA.
Q. How much salary should a person with a Ph.D. in Biotech expect?
The biotechnologist salary in USA for a PhD-holder in Biotech is around ~₹1,03,81,214 per year, and the average doctorate has to work for about 9 years before they can start their own business or work as a researcher at a university or government agency. However, a PhD in Biotechnology is important only if you wish to work in academics. To become a professor of Biotechnology or related fields, you need to complete your doctorate.
Q. What’s the starting salary in Biotechnology engineering?
The starting biotechnologist salary in USA for a Biotechnology Engineer is ~₹29,10,162. However, most Biotechnology Engineer salaries range between ~₹54,04,587 and ~₹85,22,618. The top 10% of biotechnology engineers earn ~₹1,14,32,781 in the USA. A biotechnology engineer is a demanding post in the USA due to the rise in the number of biotechnology-related businesses in the country.
Q. Which is the best city to work in the USA as a biotechnologist?
The state of California provides the highest biotechnologist salary in USA. Some of the highest-paying states are Sane Jose (₹50,95,361), Santa Clara (₹50,95,361), Fremont (₹50,82,390), and San Francisco (₹50,75,073). One of the important reasons for the high salary in the state of California is its increased rate of minimum wage per hour rate and high living wages. The 2023 minimum wage of California is ₹1,289 per hour.
Q. What is the highest salary for a biotechnologist in the USA?
The average highest salary for a biotechnologist in the USA is ~₹78,15,865. This can increase depending on your work experience, area of specialisation, work location, and work skills. The average salary for a biotechnologist in the USA with 15+ years of experience is ~₹96,53,923 annually.
Q. Can I work in the USA after completing my Biotechnology studies in India?
Yes, working in the USA after completing my Biotechnology studies in India is possible. To improve your chances of finding a job in the US, you can gain more work experience and acquire more work skills while still in India. Doing more internships and earning research experience related to fields that are high in demand in the US biotech market will also help you.
Q. How much do Indian biotechnologists earn in the USA?
The average annual biotechnologist salary in the USA ranges from ~₹50,71,997 to ~₹78,15,865. Your nationality does not influence your salary. Other factors determining your salary are your work experience, area of specialisation, work location, and work skills.
Q. How much does it cost to do a master’s in biotechnology from the USA?
The annual tuition fees for a master’s in biotechnology from the USA depend upon your university and the duration of your program. On average, the yearly tuition fee is 34,00,000 to 70,00,000. The annual tuition fees of some of the famous universities are Harvard University (~₹50,88,000), Stanford University (~₹35,61,000), and John Hopkins University (~₹49,98,000).
Q. Can I do an MS in biotechnology in the USA after completing a BSc in Biotechnology from India?
You can do an MS in biotechnology in the USA after completing a BSc in Biotechnology from India. For this, you must complete your bachelor’s in biotechnology or any related fields such as biology, biochemistry, environmental engineering, or engineering.
Q. Is GRE required for MS Biotechnology in the USA?
No, Graduate entrance scores like the GRE or GMAT are not compulsory for MS Biotechnology in the USA. Although some universities make it compulsory for admission, it is not mandatory for all universities, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Purdue University, and the University of Dayton.
Q. Which MS in Biotechnology course is best in the USA?
After completing your bachelor’s in biotechnology, numerous specialisation options are available in the USA for your master’s in the field. Some of the most reputed specialisations are Master in Pharmaceutical and Biotech Management, MSc in Biotechnology and Medical Biology, Master Advanced Pharmaceutical Engineering – ADPHARMING, and Master in Molecular Biotechnology.
Q. What are the benefits of becoming a biotechnologist in the USA?
Biotechnology is one of the most reputed career options in the USA. In addition to its fame, the profession also provides attractive salary packers. The average annual salary of a biotechnologist ranges from ~₹50,71,997 to ~₹78,15,865 in the USA. the course is also important because of its growing scope and career growth.
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