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Lab Manager Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

About the role We're looking for a Preclinical Lab Manager to own the day-to-day operations, compliance, and infrastructure of Nudge's preclinical research organization and rodent vivarium. You'll ...

About the role We're looking for a Preclinical Lab Manager to own the day-to-day operations, compliance, and infrastructure of Nudge's preclinical research organization and rodent vivarium. You'll ...

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Enter test results into the laboratory information management system. Make accept or reject ... Calibrate lab equipment according to calibration schedule. Deliver timely feedback to the ...

Identify and report any issues to Lab Manager, Supervisors, and Leads Qualifications: * 1+ year experience working in a production or manufacturing environment is highly desired. * Experience ...

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... lab equipment including balances, micropipettes, burettes, density meters, and pH meters. · ... management system. · Make accept or reject decisions on finished product based on sample results ...

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... lab equipment including balances, micropipettes, burettes, density meters, and pH meters. • ... management system. • Make accept or reject decisions on finished product based on sample results ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lab Manager information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$39.8K

$112.6K

$182.4K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Berkeley, CA is $112,600.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,700.00 and $135,900.00 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 in safety or specific technical areas can be advantageous.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

The highest paying roles in a laboratory setting are often senior positions such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research strategies. These roles 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.

How much does a lab manager earn?

Lab managers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can be higher in specialized fields or larger organizations, and the role often requires strong organizational and technical skills.

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 lab, 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Lab Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Berkeley, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,600 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
Echo Neurotechnologies is an exciting new startup in the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) space, driving innovation through advanced hardware engineering and AI solutions. Our mission is to deliver cutting-edge technologies that restore autonomy to people living with disabilities and improve their quality of life.
Team Culture
Join a small, dedicated team of knowledgeable and motivated professionals. Our early-stage environment offers the opportunity to take ownership of broad decisions with significant and long-lasting impact. We emphasize continuous learning and growth, fostering cross-functional collaboration where your contributions are vital to our success.
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 compliance, working across prototyping and quality teams. This is a high-impact role perfect for someone who thrives on organization, safety, and the "hands-on" nature of hardware engineering.
Primary Role and Responsibilities:
  • Facilities and lab operations
  • Lead the design and setup of new lab spaces, coordinate with contractors for electrical, HVAC, and plumbing requirements specific to medical device testing
  • Act as the primary liaison with local authorities to secure necessary building, environmental, and operational permits.
  • Oversee general office and lab facility needs
  • Equipment and inventory management
  • Coordinate the installation, routine maintenance, and emergency repair of specialized lab equipment
  • Maintain a rigorous calibration schedule to ensure all R&D and manufacturing equipment meets quality standards
  • Develop, coordinate training to, and enforce safety protocols, including chemical hygiene plans, hazardous waste disposal, and PPE requirements
  • Engineering support: Maintain organized records of equipment manuals, safety data sheets (SDS), and maintenance logs
  • Shipping & Receiving: Coordinate shipping/receiving; inspect and store new packages
  • Keep stockrooms, cabinets, and common equipment areas clearly labeled and organized
    Qualifications:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field
  • 5+ years in Lab Management or Facilities Management, preferably within the medical device, biotech, or similar industry.
  • Inclination toward hands-on engineering activities
  • Ability to read floor plans/blueprints and a basic understanding of electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Experience working within a quality system
    Other Qualifications:
  • Experience with California FDB
  • Strong collaboration mindset
  • Superior written and verbal communication skill

What We Offer
  • An opportunity to work on exciting, cutting-edge projects to transform patients' lives in a highly collaborative work environment.
  • Competitive compensation, including stock options.
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • 401(k) program with matching contributions.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Echo Neurotechnologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Confidentiality
All applications will be treated confidentially. Applicants may be asked to sign an NDA after the initial stages of the interview process.