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Director Of Lab Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amat

Director, EPIC Lab Operations

Santa Clara, CA

$164K - $225K/yr

As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies ... The Director, Lab Operations is responsible for leading end-to-end lab operations to ensure safe ...

Actalent

Lab Operations Specialist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

Lab Operations Specialist The Lab Operations Specialist serves as a key liaison between internal ... Ensure final disposition of materials and finished goods follows established processes, procedures ...

The Consensus

Mechanical Operations Lab Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Backed by hundreds of millions from top-tier investors and staffed by leading engineers, Etched is ... Job Summary Etched is looking for a Mechanical Lab Operations Lead to own the day-to-day ...

Etched

Mechanical Operations Lab Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

Backed by hundreds of millions from top-tier investors and staffed by leading engineers, Etched is ... Job Summary Etched is looking for a Mechanical Lab Operations Lead to own the day-to-day ...

Etched

Mechanical Operations Lab Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

Backed by hundreds of millions from top-tier investors and staffed by leading engineers, Etched is ... Job Summary Etched is looking for a Mechanical Lab Operations Lead to own the day-to-day ...

InfiCare

Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

General understanding of lab workflows, basic safety protocols, and day-to-day operational practices * Strong organizational skills -- able to track inventory, space usage, and project status * Clear ...

Inficare Technologies

Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

General understanding of lab workflows, basic safety protocols, and day-to-day operational practices * Strong organizational skills - able to track inventory, space usage, and project status * Clear ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOf Lab Operations JobsDirector Of Lab Operations JobsDirector Of Lab Operations Jobs in California

Director Of Lab Operations information

See California salary details

$33.6K

$106.3K

$177.2K

How much do director of lab operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of lab operations in California is $106,270.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $133,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of lab operations do?

A Director of Lab Operations oversees the daily functioning and strategic management of a laboratory. This role typically involves supervising lab staff, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, managing budgets, and coordinating research or diagnostic activities. They also develop operational procedures, implement new technologies, and ensure the lab meets regulatory requirements. The director acts as a bridge between laboratory personnel and upper management, ensuring smooth operations and alignment with organizational goals.

How much does a director of lab operations make in the US?

A director of lab operations in the US typically earns between $100,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits, and strong leadership and technical skills are often required for this role.

How does a director of lab operations typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure laboratory efficiency?

A Director of Lab Operations frequently works with cross-functional teams, including research scientists, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and facility management, to streamline workflows and resolve operational challenges. This collaboration ensures that laboratory processes align with organizational goals and regulatory requirements, while also addressing resource allocation and equipment maintenance. By facilitating clear communication and regular meetings, the director helps identify bottlenecks, implement best practices, and foster a culture of continuous improvement across departments.

What is the difference between Director Of Lab Operations vs Laboratory Manager?

AspectDirector Of Lab OperationsLaboratory Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Laboratory Science, Management experienceBachelor's in Laboratory Science, relevant certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple labs or departments, strategic planningManages daily lab activities, staff supervision
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, healthcareHospitals, clinical labs, research facilities
Search & Comparison IntentHigher-level strategic role, leadership focusOperational, team management focus

The Director Of Lab Operations typically holds a higher-level, strategic leadership role overseeing multiple labs or departments, with a focus on policy, compliance, and long-term planning. The Laboratory Manager handles daily operations, staff supervision, and ensuring lab efficiency. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials, but the Director's role is broader and more strategic.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of lab operations?

To thrive as a Director of Lab Operations, you need expertise in laboratory management, regulatory compliance, and a strong background in life sciences or related fields, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), quality control protocols, and certifications such as CLIA or CAP accreditation are typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top candidates apart by enabling them to lead teams and manage complex workflows. These skills ensure efficient lab operations, safety, and high standards of scientific integrity.
What cities in California are hiring for Director Of Lab Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Director Of Lab Operations job openings:
Director Of Lab Operations jobs near you

Director, EPIC Lab Operations

Applied Materials

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$164K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Applied Materials rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

Who We Are
Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.
What We Offer
Salary:
$164,000.00 - $225,500.00
Location:
Santa Clara,CA
You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.
At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.
The Director, Lab Operations is responsible for leading end-to-end lab operations to ensure safe, high-quality, and efficient production execution. This role drives daily performance across Safety, Quality, and Output (SQO), oversees cleanroom and production control activities, and partners with engineering and customers to meet operational objectives. The Operations Manager plays a critical role in fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
Production & Output Execution
  • Drive achievement of daily, weekly, and quarterly production targets.
  • Maximize equipment utilization by ensuring tools are effectively run when available (UTP).
  • Identify bottlenecks and implement corrective actions to maintain throughput.

Quality Management
  • Ensure adherence to strict quality standards to protect wafer integrity throughout all processes.
  • Promote a "product-as-customer" mindset, reinforcing ownership of quality at every operational step.
  • Prevent contamination, defects, and handling-related damage through disciplined execution.

Operations Oversight
  • Lead and oversee 24/7 lab operations, including:
    • Production Control Center (PCC) activities (staffed per shift)
    • Cleanroom floor operations through Team Leaders and Clean Room Operators (CROs)
  • Ensure alignment and seamless coordination between operations, engineering, and support teams.

Customer/Tenant Engagement
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customer and tenant concerns related to lab operations.
  • Ensure timely issue resolution, transparent communication, and follow-through on corrective actions.

Incident Investigation & Problem Solving
  • Lead root cause analysis using structured methodologies such as 5 Whys and 8D.
  • Drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to eliminate recurrence of issues.

Performance Management & Reporting
  • Monitor and ensure achievement of daily Safety, Quality, and Output (SQO) targets.
  • Provide clear, data-driven explanations for deviations, including root cause and recovery plans.
  • Report operational performance, risks, and improvements to the Fab Manager.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Participate in Change Review Boards (CRBs) as required.
  • Lead weekly production meetings with Engineering to review tool status, performance, and priorities.
  • Collaborate with business units and stakeholders to support operational goals.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Practices
  • Apply Lean principles through Gemba (go-and-see) practices to observe operations firsthand.
  • Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement across teams.
  • Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 8+ years of experience in semiconductor manufacturing, cleanroom operations, or similar environments
  • Proven leadership experience managing operations teams in a high-volume or R&D fab setting
  • Experience with process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent)
  • Strong leadership and team management skills in a 24/7 operational environment
  • Deep understanding of lab operations, equipment utilization, and production control
  • Expertise in problem-solving methodologies (5 Whys, 8D, RCA)
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Data-driven decision-making and performance management
  • Strong customer focus and ability to manage escalations effectively

Additional Information
Time Type:
Full time
Employee Type:
Assignee / Regular
Travel:
Yes, 25% of the Time
Relocation Eligible:
Yes
The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.
For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

What Applied Materials employees say

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About Applied Materials

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We're the brain (and the brawn) behind every new technology development--whether it's building semiconductor chips for smartphones and computers, or the underpinnings for robotics, AI and even smart TV display screens. With 27,000 employees in 19 countries, we offer an exciting place to grow and learn alongside some of the best people you'll ever meet. We take deep pride in our Culture of Inclusion, and we celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences that help us build stronger, more resilient teams. Join us as we innovate to Make Possible a Better Future!

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1967

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