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Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Boutique Recruiting

Lab Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Lab Manager This role is critical for ensuring the effective management of lab staff and operations. The Lab Manager will oversee testing processes, guaranteeing that all tasks are completed ...

Syensqo

Associate Lab Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$98K - $148K/yr

Materials & Testing Associate Lab Manager Job Overview and Responsibilities Be part of a world-class laboratory management team supporting projects that are critical to the success of the Global ...

Syensqo

Associate Lab Manager

Anaheim, CA

$98K - $148K/yr

Materials & Testing Associate Lab Manager Job Overview and Responsibilities Be part of a world-class laboratory management team supporting projects that are critical to the success of the Global ...

Echo Neurotechnologies

Lab Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Summary We are seeking an experienced Lab Manager to serve as the backbone of our hardware development environment. You will wear many hats, including help set up lab spaces, navigating EHS ...

Amspec LLC.

Assistant Lab Manager

Signal Hill, CA · On-site

Together with Lab manager, accountable for keeping the Branch Manager informed of all laboratory testing issues and needs, instrument status and content/accuracy of testing data and results. Primary ...

AmSpec Group

Assistant Lab Manager

Signal Hill, CA · On-site

Together with Lab manager, accountable for keeping the Branch Manager informed of all laboratory testing issues and needs, instrument status and content/accuracy of testing data and results. Primary ...

Apple

Lab Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

As an Electronics Lab Manager, you will be the backbone of our hardware engineering environment, ensuring our teams have everything they need to design, test, and iterate on the next generation of ...

Apple

Lab Manager

San Diego, CA

$37.86 - $78.61/hr

As an Electronics Lab Manager, you will be the backbone of our hardware engineering environment, ensuring our teams have everything they need to design, test, and iterate on the next generation of ...

Omen AI

Lab Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Lab Manager Location: San Francisco (In-person) Who We Are Omen is miniaturizing lab-grade spectroscopy into field-deployable embedded sensors. Our systems deliver PPM-level trace analysis reports on ...

AmSpec Group

Lab Manager

Camarillo, CA · On-site

Responsible for operations and supervision of Lab. personnel. Accountable for keeping the Branch Manager informed of all laboratory testing issues and needs, instrument status and content/accuracy of ...

Dental Rite

Dental Lab Manager

Los Angeles, CA

$75K - $80K/yr

Dental Lab Management, EXOCAD experience, crown/bridge designing is a requirement** Your tasks will include, but not be limited to: working as "Admin" on our dental portal with dentists to finalize ...

Amspec LLC.

Lab Manager

Camarillo, CA · On-site

Responsible for operations and supervision of Lab. personnel. Accountable for keeping the Branch Manager informed of all laboratory testing issues and needs, instrument status and content/accuracy of ...

Apple

PCB Materials Lab Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

We're looking for a PCB Materials Lab Manager to lead the team and capabilities behind it - someone who sets the standard for quality, anticipates where our engineering needs are heading, and keeps ...

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All JobsLab JobsLab Manager JobsLab Manager Jobs in California

Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$90.8K

$147K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in California is $90,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Manager, you need expertise in laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and scientific analysis, typically supported by a degree in a relevant science field and prior lab experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), inventory software, and regulatory compliance certifications such as OSHA or CLIA is often required. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills help manage teams, coordinate projects, and ensure accurate reporting. These abilities are vital for maintaining efficient lab operations, regulatory compliance, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a lab manager?

A lab manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering, along with several years of experience in laboratory settings. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills are essential, and certifications like OSHA safety training or specific technical licenses can be advantageous.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

The highest paying jobs in a laboratory setting are often senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research strategies. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and organization.

What does a Lab Manager do?

A Lab Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a laboratory. Their duties typically include supervising staff, ensuring safety protocols are followed, managing inventory and ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Lab Managers also coordinate experiments and research activities, and may handle budgeting and administrative tasks. Their role is crucial in ensuring the lab runs efficiently and safely.

Do you need a PhD to be a lab manager?

A PhD is not typically required to be a lab manager; most positions require a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, along with experience in laboratory operations, management skills, and knowledge of lab procedures. Advanced degrees may be preferred for managing research-intensive labs, but practical experience and organizational abilities are often more important.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Managers when overseeing a diverse research team?

Lab Managers often encounter challenges related to coordinating schedules, managing conflicting priorities among researchers, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on support requires strong organizational skills and adaptability, especially when unexpected issues arise, such as equipment malfunctions or supply shortages. Effective communication is key to fostering collaboration and maintaining a productive work environment, as Lab Managers frequently serve as the bridge between researchers, technicians, and external vendors.

What does a Laboratory Manager do?

A Laboratory Manager oversees daily operations in a laboratory, including managing staff, ensuring safety protocols, maintaining equipment, and coordinating experiments or research activities. They often handle budgeting, compliance with regulations, and may require knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

What is the difference between Lab Manager vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ManagerLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant science, often with management experienceAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in a science or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees lab operations, manages staff, and ensures compliancePerforms routine tests, prepares samples, and maintains lab equipment
ResponsibilitiesSupervises staff, manages budgets, and coordinates projectsConducts experiments, records data, and maintains lab safety

The main difference between a Lab Manager and a Laboratory Technician lies in their responsibilities and level of oversight. Lab Managers focus on managing lab operations, staff, and compliance, while Laboratory Technicians handle hands-on testing and sample preparation. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials, but Lab Managers typically have more experience and managerial skills.

More about Lab Manager jobs
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 Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Manager job openings:
Lab Manager jobs near you
Lab Manager

Lab Manager

Boutique Recruiting

Livermore, CA • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Lab Manager
This role is critical for ensuring the effective management of lab staff and operations. The Lab Manager will oversee testing processes, guaranteeing that all tasks are completed accurately and on schedule to meet client and project demands. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and organization, as well as the ability to communicate technical information clearly to clients. You'll lead laboratory staff, manage testing operations, maintain certifications and ensure projects are completed accurately, efficiently and on schedule. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys balancing technical expertise with leadership while mentoring the next generation of laboratory professionals.
Salary Range: $30.00 - $38.00 / Hour DOE
Lab Manager Responsibilities:
  • Set up samples for testing
  • Run tests with technicians
  • Train technicians and entry-level staff in lab testing procedures
  • Order supplies and manage inventory
  • Maintain lab certifications
  • Manage project timelines within scope

Lab Manager Requirements:
  • 5+ years as a lab manager in a geotechnical lab environment
  • Geotechnical testing experience is highly preferred, but candidates with similar testing backgrounds may be considered
  • Experience with shear tests, sieve analysis, triaxial tests, expansion index tests, and consolidation tests
  • Bachelor's degree is highly preferred; relevant industry experience may substitute for a degree
  • Broad experience in investigation, field, construction, and cleanup operations with local and state agencies
  • Physically capable of crawling in and out of trenches
  • Proficient in Excel and tech-savvy
  • Environmental lab experience in California is required
  • A valid California driver's license, a current DMV printout, and access to a personal vehicle for site travel

Benefits:
  • Multiple medical options with employer contributions
  • 401k plan with a 10% match
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits eligible after 60 days
  • PTO includes 53 hours of sick time and vacation days based on tenure
  • 8 paid holidays per year
  • Profit-sharing plan available after 7 years
  • Base compensation plus bonuses and profit sharing

If you are a Lab Manager looking to take the next step in your career, apply now! #LI-CC1
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About Boutique Recruiting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a team with shared goals; mindfully placing candidates in the workforce to successfully fulfill their career ambitions while encouraging a sense of purpose and value. We have created a new kind of placement firm — one that values connection, personalization, commitment, impact, boldness and achievement. At Boutique Recruiting, our clients, candidates and employees are at the heart of our success.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

2014

Social media

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