1

Lab Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Director

Salida, CA · On-site

$112K - $147K/yr

Lab Director Salida Regular (US Only) MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global ...

Lab Director

Modesto, CA · On-site

$140 - $148/hr

YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE We are looking for a Lab Director in 5262 Pirrone Ct, Salida, CA 95368 USA. Your mission will be to: Purpose of the job: Reporting to the Division Vice President, the Lab ...

Lab Director

Salida, CA

$112K - $147K/yr

Reporting to the Division Vice President, the Lab Director is responsible for taking ownership and operating a successful laboratory. This achieved through displaying an entrepreneurial spirit ...

Lab Director

Salida, CA

$112K - $147K/yr

Reporting to the Division Vice President, the Lab Director is responsible for taking ownership and operating a successful laboratory. This achieved through displaying an entrepreneurial spirit ...

Clinical Laboratory Director Bionano Laboratories, the RUO and CLIA/CAP services business unit of Bionano Genomics, seeks a qualified Clinical Laboratory Director to provide clinical, scientific ...

In accordance with California Business and Professions Code §1261, the Laboratory Director provides administrative, financial and operational leadership for the laboratory, functioning as the ...

Clinical Lab Director

Victorville, CA · On-site

$108K - $178K/yr

Responsibilities In accordance with California Business and Professions Code §1261, the Laboratory Director provides administrative, financial and operational leadership for the laboratory ...

Laboratory Director

San Carlos, CA

$128K - $167K/yr

Associate/Laboratory Director of Oncology, Comprehensive Genomic Profiling Position Summary As an Associate Lab Director or Lab Director of Oncology, you have clinical oversight of Natera ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Director information

See California salary details

$44.4K

$124.4K

$183.6K

How much do lab director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab director in California is $124,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $136,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lab Director, you typically need an advanced degree in a scientific discipline, extensive laboratory experience, and strong management skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), regulatory compliance protocols like CLIA or CAP, and quality assurance tools is crucial. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure effective lab operations, regulatory adherence, and a high standard of scientific integrity and safety.

What are some common challenges a lab director faces when managing a multidisciplinary team?

Lab Directors often oversee teams composed of scientists, technicians, and administrative staff from diverse backgrounds. A key challenge is ensuring effective communication and collaboration across these disciplines, especially when balancing research priorities with regulatory compliance and resource allocation. Building a culture of transparency and continuous improvement helps address these challenges, as does providing ongoing professional development to team members. Proactively managing conflicts and aligning the team's goals with the lab's overall mission are also crucial responsibilities.

How much does a lab director make in the US?

A lab director in the US typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. Salaries can be higher in specialized fields such as clinical or research laboratories, especially with advanced certifications and management responsibilities.

What does a lab director do?

A lab director oversees the operations, management, and safety of a laboratory, ensuring compliance with regulations and quality standards. They coordinate research activities, supervise staff, and may be involved in budgeting, equipment maintenance, and reporting. Strong leadership, scientific expertise, and knowledge of laboratory protocols are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lab Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lab Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,435 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

$112K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Mérieux NutriSciences rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

91st of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Lab Director
Salida
Regular (US Only)
MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES
As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 27 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.
If you want to contribute to an inspiring long-term purpose, to be part of a fast growing company on a high-value market with significant build-up opportunities, and to grow in an entrepreneurial and warm environment, join us!
YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE
We are looking for a Lab Director in 5262 Pirrone Ct, Salida, CA 95368 USA. Your mission will be to:
Purpose of the job: Reporting to the Division Vice President, the Lab Director is responsible for taking ownership and operating a successful laboratory. This achieved through displaying an entrepreneurial spirit, inspiring excellence in others, building strong customer relationships, making sound operational decisions and leading change.
Main activities:
• Take ownership of the business; develop and implement a strategic plan for the laboratory to meet business goals
• Manage financial aspects of the business including budget development, short and long term financial goal setting, P&L
management and executing strategies to achieve goals
• Understand and take advantage of available resources to help achieve results in a cost effective, safe, ethical manner
• Develop and maintain expertise in the field of food science and related technologies through available library resources and peer expertise
• Demonstrate leadership through communication and actions to earn respect and trust of the team
• Set the tone of integrity, accountability, excellence and initiative by modeling the behavior that is expected from leaders and staff
• Clearly communicate goals and accountability of achievement across all levels of the workforce
• Create and foster an environment where coaching and development is a priority to promote employment engagement, career pathing, and organizational succession planning
• Understand corporate objectives and manage laboratory performance to maintain or improve operational and financial efficiencies aligning with company goals
• Ensure compliance with Mérieux policies and standard operating procedures striving for the highest level of quality, customer
excellence, safety, and efficiency for existing and new business
• Ensure exceptional internal and external customer experiences through engagement, attitude, communication and service
• Participate in strategic conversations with sales team and dedicate time to meet with current and prospective clients to
understand customer needs and build trusting relationships
• Develop deep industry knowledge and play an active role in industry events
• Provide technical expertise to clients by helping them interpret laboratory data and suggesting solutions to their related business
challenges
• Constantly evaluate laboratory from all aspects and challenge the status quo; analyze and derive strategy that is inclusive of
change, provide clear goals and continually measure progress
• Communicate change and stand behind the message; present a united front with corporate partners and leadership team
• Participate in the implementation of internal quality control programs, evaluation of the results and in the establishment of the
internal repeatability and reproducibility of standard methods, including participation in internal and external audits
• Manage, and check randomly and systematically, that the quality system is documented, effective, updated and being understood and adhered to by the staff.
• Monitor the quality activities and implement the agreed corrective action and evaluate its effectiveness
• Manage local controlled documents (Manuals, Procedures, Work Instructions, Charts, Guidelines).
• Cease specific analyses when evidence from the quality system indicates the process is not in control and the quality of the results are compromised as a result of the non-conformances and (b) to restart work and communicate the resumption of work to
Corporate Sales and Quality groups
YOUR PROFILE
Required skills:
• Advanced knowledge of microbiology and/or chemistry in addition to food science obtained from a Bachelor's degree or a Masters degree or equivalent experience
• A general knowledge of the business disciplines of finance, budgeting, sales, and marketing practices are necessary to gain new
business and maintain current customers successfully.
• Computer skills necessary to track laboratory information and produce documents to support the management function.
• General knowledge of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is needed to review analysis results and correct any discrepancies.
• Analytical skills are needed to problem solve and fulfill customer's analysis needs.
• Strong oral and written communication skills are essential to this position for effective customer contact.
• Customer relation skills are needed to obtain and provide information to the customer.
• Strong management skills, obtained from previous supervisory experience, are necessary to ensure that the laboratory runs
smoothly.
Management (Size and characteristics of the team(s)):
• Oversees one or multiple lab managers depending on lab size
• Each manager oversees a group of lab supervisors who directly support the technicians and lab staff
Compensation Package Overview:
Compensation Range - $140,000 - $148,000 annual salary USD
Potential bonus: Up to 15% based on performance.
Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.
The information above provides a general overview and may vary based on specific job responsibilities, location, or other factors. Details will be clarified during the hiring process.
#LI-KC1
WHY JOIN US?
  • Because you would contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose, supported by long-term and visionary shareholders.
  • Because you would have an impact on our strategic pillars that build on 50 years of experience and expertise.
  • Because you would be part of a community of an enthusiastic and skilled group of people who love co-building together and serving a purpose bigger than them.
  • Because you would be welcome as you are, in a diverse and open-minded environment that is rich in our singularities and differences.
  • Because you would grow in an international group of more than 8200 fantastic team members, with plenty of opportunities to learn and share.

Ready for the journey?
To apply please click on 'Apply now' button

What Mérieux NutriSciences employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom