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Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coherent Corp.

Senior Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking products and technologies, including servers, network switches, and supporting infrastructure such as ...

Coherent

Senior Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking products and technologies, including servers, network switches, and supporting infrastructure such as ...

CIVIL SOLUTIONS ASSOCIATES INC

Lab Technician

Bishop, CA · On-site

... lab managers to maintain the highest standards of accuracy and efficiency. This position offers a ... As a leading firm in civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, construction management, and mix ...

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Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$90.8K

$147K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $90,756 per year, or $43.6 per hour.
Senior Lab Manager

Senior Lab Manager

II-VI Incorporated

Santa Clara, CA

Full-time

Posted just now

Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking products and technologies, including servers, network switches, and supporting infrastructure such as monitoring tools
  • Define lab requirements, coordinate equipment procurement, and oversee installation, configuration, and operational readiness
  • Collaborate with internal teams to develop and deliver interactive demonstrations that highlight product capabilities and solutions
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to create and maintain passive product displays, including hardware setups and technical signage within the lab
  • Lead and support proof-of-concept (POC) trials for key customers focused on optical datacenter and communications products
  • Perform ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and optimization of lab systems and equipment to ensure reliability and relevance
  • Engage directly with customers during lab visits, providing technical expertise and coordinating responses to inquiries with internal stakeholders
  • Drive customer POC requirements through internal engineering and product teams to ensure successful execution
  • Gather and communicate customer feedback to relevant internal teams to inform product improvements and strategy
  • Provide technical and customer-facing support at industry events and trade shows as needed

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience); Master's degree or higher preferred
  • 7+ years of experience in the communications and systems industry in technical roles
  • Hands-on experience with servers, network equipment, operating systems, and management software required
  • Strong problem-solving and technical troubleshooting skills in complex environments
  • Customer-facing experience is a plus, with the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and effectively

Skills

  • Strong technical and debugging skills related to the installation, configuration, and operation of servers, network switches/devices, and network test and monitoring equipment
  • Hands-on experience troubleshooting systems, monitoring tools, and lab test environments
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple priorities
  • Familiarity with optical networking equipment is a plus

Working Conditions

  • This position is onsite
  • May require occasional off-site meetings 
  • Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary
  • Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods while installing and maintaining lab equipment
  • Comfortable working in a lab and data center environment, including equipment racks and confined spaces
  • Ability to use standard tools for installation and maintenance of hardware
  • Ability to travel occasionally for customer visits, lab support

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


 

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


 

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

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