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Lab Manager Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Support plant operations through data-driven insights and lab-based troubleshooting of process ... Proven ability to manage projects and deliver results in cross-functional settings.Skills and ...

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. This position is a member of the Regional Management and Safety Teams and is expected to support and comply with company policies and to cultivate the MPW culture. 2. Position ...

This role manages the plant quality engineering team, responsible for product/process quality, post-sale field support, supplier quality and the Lincoln Quality Management System with the overall ...

Quality Manager

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$130K - $190K/yr

This role manages the plant quality engineering team, responsible for product/process quality, post-sale field support, supplier quality and the Lincoln Quality Management System with the overall ...

This role manages the plant quality engineering team, responsible for product/process quality, post-sale field support, supplier quality and the Lincoln Quality Management System with the overall ...

Quality Manager

Clinton, IL · On-site

$81K - $106K/yr

Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, you will oversee all aspects of the quality function to include inspection, procedural documentation, and all other related sub-functions. Meyer Utility ...

Quality Manager

Clinton, IL · On-site

$81K - $106K/yr

Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, you will oversee all aspects of the quality function to include inspection, procedural documentation, and all other related sub-functions. Meyer Utility ...

Travel Occupational Therapist

Clinton, IL

$1.7K - $2.1K/wk

We staff all five major divisions of acute care--nursing, lab, radiology, cardiopulmonary and rehab ... and managed by actual clinicians--yeah, you read that right - And more (because of course there ...

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Lab Manager information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$31.5K

$89.2K

$144.5K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Decatur, IL is $89,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,900.00 and $107,700.00 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 Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Lab Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,199 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Senior Research Scientist, Process Chemistry - Decatur, IL

ADM

Decatur, IL

$95K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


ADM rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 182 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 343 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description Senior Research Scientist, Process Chemistry - Decatur, ILThis is an exempt level position.Position Summary:The Process Chemistry Group within the ADM Research and Development organization has an opening for a Senior Research Scientist.The qualified candidate will be expected to carry out and/or lead chemical process-related research projects within the ADM Research organization, located in Decatur, Illinois.Projects will relate to new and on-going products and process optimization. This position will interact with a broad range of functions, including production, engineering, other research interests, and ADM suppliers and contractors.The candidate must have a solid understanding of organic reaction mechanisms, organic structure elucidation, reaction optimization, and practical/scalable purification techniques that will positively impact existing programs and provide insight into new opportunities. This role provides potential opportunities to lead projects and expand into broader leadership responsibilities within the organization.Essential Functions:Perform all job functions in accordance with company safety guidelinesEnsure lab technicians, contract employees, and other co-workers comply with ADM laboratory standardsDevelop experimental plans both independently, and in collaboration with the Process Chemistry Group Manager and project stakeholders to accomplish project goalsApply process optimization principles to identify and implement process improvementsDesign and execute Design of Experiments (DOE) studiesSynthesize, isolate, and purify compounds, intermediates, and derivatives using appropriate techniquesAcquire and interpret analytical and physical data to assess compound identity and purityConduct literature and patent researchMaster set up, maintenance, and operation of laboratory reactor systems and data-acquisition software for continuous and batch reactionsGenerate, analyze, and interpret experimental data using scientific and statistical methodsCommunicate research progress through reports, presentations, and verbal updatesMaintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and safety complianceCollaborate across teams to develop and transfer processes to manufacturingCommunicate with ADM colleagues, contractors, and suppliers, sending clear, appropriate and concise messages that express ideas, interpretations, and feedback Work collaboratively in a team setting, contributing to team cohesion and trust.Work productively and efficiently by being organized and prepared while supporting and assisting fellow team members whenever necessaryParticipate in safety reviews with colleagues on a variety of projectsRequirements:Ph.D.

in chemistry or chemical engineering, with 5-10 years of experience in process scale-up in the chemical or pharmaceutical industryDemonstrated expertise in the design and execution of experimental plans for evaluation and optimization of diverse chemical processesExperience in specialized and/or high pressure/temperature reactor design and operation is preferredAbility to design and perform experiments including the selection of sampling procedures, analytical methods, and some routine analytical analysisAbility to design, set up, operate and maintain lab and pilot equipmentKnowledge and experience with wide range of analytical instrumentation especially NMR, HPLC, GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, FT-IR, and UV-VisKnowledge of safe hazardous material handling and hazard communication requirements and proceduresWorking knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Microsoft OfficeAbility to function independently while interacting with ADM management, facility management, and ADM contract employeesEffective writing and oral communication skills, strong organizational skills, and meticulous attention to detailMaintain confidential and highly sensitive informationPhysical Factors:Ability to sit, stand, or work in a laboratory environment for extended periodsAbility to safely lift and handle equipment up to 50 poundsCapability to move gas cylinders and use hand and power toolsAbility to operate standard office and laboratory equipmentExcited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.

REF:109329BRBase pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

The pay range for this position is expected to be between:$90,000.00 -$144,200.00Salaried Incentive PlanThe total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonusBenefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares). Additional benefits include:Paid time off including paid holidays.Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.Tuition assistance.Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.

*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.#IncludingYouDiversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.We welcome everyone to apply.

We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by lawAbout ADM At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company.

Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.


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