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Lab Manager Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN (NOW HIRING)

Essilor

Manager- Lab

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$95K/yr

WM0034 Optical Lab Management WAYN Position : Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information Since 1915, Walman Optical has served thousands of independent eye care professionals providing ...

BW Fusion

Chemistry Lab Technician

Fort Wayne, IN

Description BW Fusion is looking for a hands-on Chemistry Lab Technician to support our R&D and product development team in formulating and testing agricultural nutritionals and biostimulants. You'll ...

New

TRUCENT INC

Part-Time Lab Technician

Van Wert, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

... management. Our customer-centric solutions include Renewable Chemicals, Fluid Separation for ... This position would directly assist our Lab Technician. We are ready to act immediately on those ...

Precision Color Compounds LLC

Be Seen First

Assistant Color Lab Technician

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

We are looking for an experienced Color Lab Technician to join our lab team as we continue to grow. This is a hands-on role. You will be working directly on color matching, creating sample chips ...

New

Precision Color Compounds LLC

Be Seen First

Assistant Color Lab Technician

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

We are looking for an experienced Color Lab Technician to join our lab team as we continue to grow. This is a hands-on role. You will be working directly on color matching, creating sample chips ...

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All JobsLab JobsLab Manager JobsLab Manager Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Lab Manager information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$29.7K

$84.1K

$136.3K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Fort Wayne, IN is $84,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $101,500.00 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 Fort Wayne, IN?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,753 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Manager- Lab

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Essilor
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 297 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 40 rated optical retailers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Essilorexternal

$95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Requisition ID: 940980 
Store #: WM0034 Optical Lab Management WAYN 
Position: Full-Time 
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

Since 1915, Walman Optical has served thousands of independent eye care professionals providing solutions for all of their optical needs. Our experienced and knowledgeable team helps businesses grow while providing quality eyewear and unmatched service for an exceptional patient experience. With us, you'll bring our most advanced technology and innovative products to our partners.

As a division of Walman, our collective mission is to enrich the lives of our customers, employees and the communities we serve through better vision.

Walman is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!

JOB DESCRIPTION

GENERAL FUNCTIONS

The Lab Manager oversees all operations and people management aspects of a lab. The scope of the role may vary based on various factors, such as the volume, number of employees, the type of lab, and other factors. The volume of jobs per day is approximately <400 for Proximity labs.

The Lab Manager leads strategy and operations to meet safety, quality, production, maintenance, and people management goals. They are accountable for lab performance, ensuring it aligns with company standards. Responsibilities include driving efficiency, developing high-performing teams, leading change, and fostering continuous improvement. The Lab Manager also collaborates with senior leadership and other teams to drive execution and enhance performance.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Enforces safety policies, ensuring compliance with internal and external regulations (e.g., EH&S, EPA, OSHA).
  • Leads efforts to improve operational efficiency through financial management, structure, processes, quality, resource allocation, change management, and expense control.
  • Analyzes data and trends to develop strategies for achieving goals.
  • Implements strategies and best practices in operations and people management.
  • Communicates strategy to engage and motivate employees.
  • Sets clear performance objectives aligned with market and lab strategy for team members.
  • Monitors production and quality progress through data analysis and performance review.
  • Drives metric execution through action plans and accountability.
  • Collaborates with leadership to report progress and secure necessary resources.
  • Promotes a positive work environment and ensures alignment with company values.
  • Manages people processes such as hiring, training, performance management, and problem resolution.
  • Develops leadership capabilities through talent management, performance reviews, and succession planning.
  • Partners with engineering and maintenance on production and quality improvements.
  • Leads and participates in project teams.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma/G.E.D.
  • 10+ years of experience with leading others.
  • 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing or related environment.
  • Demonstration of skills and abilities, such as the following:
  • Resolves conflict in a timely and productive manner
  • Makes effective decisions to solve problems
  • Ability to manage expenses and budgets
  • Collaborates with and influences others to achieve expected results
  • Self-motivated with a high sense of urgency, resourcefulness, and adaptability.
  • Basic computer skills and experience with MS Office; ability to learn other systems (SAP).
  • Must be able to travel as needed to meet the needs of the lab operations.
  • Experience in a very high-volume environment with complex technical processes.
  • Proven track record of individual accomplishment, contribution, and team-based success.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Business or related field.
  • Previous experience leading process improvement initiatives within a production environment utilizing Lean Manufacturing and 6 Sigma tools and processes.

Pay Range:   - $95,000

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.

EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email EmployeeRelations@luxotticaretail.com

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

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