ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carbon Health

Lab Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... clinical lab environments, and a dedication to patient care and precision What you'll do * In the absence of the Laboratory Director and Technical Supervisor, the Laboratory Manager shall be ...

Neuralink

R&D Lab Manager

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Lab Manager is an individual contributor within the Logistics organization responsible for the day-to-day operational management of Neuralink's South San Francisco laboratory and engineering ...

Tao Of Man LLC

Cosmetic Lab Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$15/hr

Verify test results with Lab Manager and log information * Check Stability of product samples weekly and log any changes * Input into Chemical Database all raw material samples * Put away all raw ...

Tao Of Man LLC

Cosmetic Lab Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$15/hr

Verify test results with Lab Manager and log information * Check Stability of product samples weekly and log any changes * Input into Chemical Database all raw material samples * Put away all raw ...

Neuralink

R&D Lab Manager

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Lab Manager is an individual contributor within the Logistics organization responsible for the day-to-day operational management of Neuralink's South San Francisco laboratory and engineering ...

Specter

Engineering Lab Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Role You'll build and maintain the lab and test sites the rest of engineering depends on. That spans standing up outdoor test installations, wiring the lab's network and servers, mounting radios ...

MatX

High_Speed Lab Manager

Mountain View, CA · Remote

$175K - $362K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a hands-on Lab Manager to oversee daily operations, organization, and infrastructure for our high-speed electrical and optical test lab. This is an active role focused ...

MatX Inc.

High_Speed Lab Manager

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$180 - $600/hr

About the Role We are seeking a hands-on Lab Manager to oversee daily operations, organization, and infrastructure for our high-speed electrical and optical test lab. This is an active role focused ...

Apple

PCB Materials Lab Manager

San Diego, CA

$142K - $263K/yr

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 ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 23, 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 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.

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 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 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.

How much does a lab manager make?

The average salary for a lab manager in California ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the industry sector. Salaries may also vary based on the size of the laboratory and specific responsibilities, such as overseeing staff, managing budgets, or ensuring compliance with safety standards.

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 experience in laboratory operations. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills are essential, and certifications like OSHA safety training or specific technical certifications can be advantageous.
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
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,756 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Lab Manager - Photosynthetic Research | Caltech Campus

Biopractify

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Lab Manager – Photosynthetic Research | Caltech Campus

Institution: California Institute of Technology (Caltech) Campus

Positions Available: Lab Manager (Immediate Start) + Recruiting at All Levels Soon

Research Area: Photosynthesis & Novel Tool Development

Our lab focuses on cutting‑edge biological research, specifically:

  • Advanced photosynthetic research
  • Developing novel tools and methodologies to study photosynthesis

Lab Manager Applicants: Applicants should be:

  • Dynamic, highly organized, and motivated.
  • Ready to tackle the new challenges associated with setting up a brand‑new laboratory space.
  • Equipped with a strong background in laboratory operations, equipment management, and safety protocols.
Why Apply?
  • Play a foundational, ground‑floor role in setting up a new lab space.
  • Work on the prestigious Caltech campus alongside top‑tier researchers.
  • Contribute to developing groundbreaking tools in plant biology and biochemistry.
  • Join a rapidly growing team that will soon be expanding at all levels (students, postdocs, and staff).
Location

The lab is moving this summer and will be physically located on the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) campus in Pasadena, California.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply