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Lab Manager Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

Histotechnician I Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories seeks a Histotechnician I for their Histology Lab ... Manager and above positions may participate in Cottage Health's annual management incentive program.

Serve as the subject matter expert on the lab's critical MEP infrastructure, understanding how ... Vendor Management: Proven experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and on-site ...

Work with lab managers to standardize all EHS documentation. * Manage facility environmental permits, track annual energy reduction projects and monthly safety and environmental metrics.

Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories seeks a Histotechnician I for their Histology Lab department ... Manager and above positions may participate in Cottage Health's annual management incentive program.

Senior Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Provide lab oversight, ensuring compliance with Lab Operating Procedures (LOP), Foreign Object Elimination (FOE), Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) policies, and Access Management, as well as managing ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Provide lab oversight, ensuring compliance with Lab Operating Procedures (LOP), Foreign Object Elimination (FOE), Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) policies, and Access Management, as well as managing ...

That's why our Operations, Lab Services, Sales, and many other Avantor teams rely on our talent ... Good communication skills, Time-management skills * Preferred: technical writing, critical thinking

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Lab Manager information

See Goleta, CA salary details

$35.1K

$99.2K

$160.8K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Goleta, CA is $99,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $119,800.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Goleta, CA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,222 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

CLIA Laboratory Manager - Anatomic Pathology

Carpinteria, CA • On-site


Agilent
Biotechnology Research and Development • 10K+ employees

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$160K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Be a part of the future of Precision Medicine! Our mission is to improve the human condition by bringing the power of precision medicine to labs, partners and patients globally. In the Companion Diagnostics Business (CDx), our team partners very closely with leading biopharma companies to develop, manufacture and commercialize highly regulated medical devices which are critical for physicians to help select therapies for their patients.
The CLIA Lab Manager is responsible for a CLIA and CAP accredited and NYS permitted laboratory, residing in Carpinteria, California, performing Clinical-Trial retrospective and prospective testing services. This position is responsible for overseeing all laboratory operations, ensuring strict compliance with all state and federal CLIA regulations, managing personnel and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and reliable analytical test results. Additionally, the Lab Manager will support Business Development, presenting our Clinical-Trial services capabilities to both current and future customers for new business opportunities.
Must demonstrate ability to work independently, exercise good judgement, work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team with minimal direction, and to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Effective verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail and excellent problem-solving skills with demonstrated leadership ability.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operational Leadership:
    • Manage day-to-day operations, including workflow, staffing schedules, and resource allocation to ensure efficiency and timely delivery of service to our customers.
  • Regulatory Compliance:
    • Ensure full compliance with all federal and state (CLIA-CDPH-LFS) regulations and accreditation standards (e.g., CAP, NYSDOH).
    • Maintain current laboratory licenses and certifications, collaborate with Quality Assurance support for handling renewals and changes as needed.
    • Prepare the laboratory for inspections and audits by regulatory bodies.
  • Quality Assurance & Control (In partnership with Quality Assurance):
    • Develop, implement, and maintain quality management systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
    • Oversee quality control programs, proficiency testing & performance, and implement corrective actions when deviations occur.
    • Analyze test result data, prepare performance reports, and lead continuous quality improvement initiatives.
  • Personnel Management:
    • Supervise, hire, train, and mentor laboratory staff (Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Lab Assistants, Histotechnologists, etc.).
    • Conduct annual performance and competency evaluations, ensuring all personnel are appropriately trained and documented before testing Clinical-Trial specimens.
    • Foster a collaborative and safe work environment, enforcing all safety protocols and addressing potential hazards immediately.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology, clinical/medical laboratory science, biological science, related life science field, or equivalent from an accredited institution AND 4+ years working in a high complexity testing laboratory with a doctoral level Laboratory Director.

OR
  • Master's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical, or biological science AND 4+ years working in a a high complexity testing clinical laboratory with a doctoral level Laboratory Director.

OR
  • PhD degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical or biological science AND 2+ years working in a high complexity testing clinical laboratory with a doctoral level Laboratory Director.

Other:
  • Possess a current California laboratory technologist license (CLS generalist).
  • 3+ years of people leadership experience with accountability for clinical laboratory direct reports.
  • High complexity clinical laboratory experience
  • Experience in clinical document writing for laboratory SOP's and validations.
  • Clinical-Trial testing and reporting experience.
  • Validation of LDT's for companion diagnostics testing for Clinical-Trials
  • Willing to be hands on.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of anatomic pathology, histological techniques, and Immunohistochemistry.Basic understanding of companion diagnostics and drug development.
  • Practical experience with anatomic pathology and immunohistochemistry..
  • Experience with other diagnostic modalities such as in situ hybridization and flow cytometry.
  • HTL/HT (ASCP) Certification.
  • Knowledge or experience with lab automation, including implementation of a Laboratory Information Management System.

Additional Details
This job has a full time weekly schedule. Applications for this job will be accepted until at least August 27, 2026 or until the job is no longer posted.
The full-time equivalent pay range for this position is $160,500.00 - $250,781.00/yr plus eligibility for bonus, stock and benefits. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. During the hiring process, a recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for a preferred location. Pay and benefit information by country are available at: https://careers.agilent.com/locations
Agilent Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity and merit-based employer that values individuals of all backgrounds at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases. Agilent Technologies, Inc., is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive in the workplace where everyone is welcome, and strives to support candidates with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance with any part of the application or interview process or have questions about workplace accessibility, please email job_posting@agilent.com or contact +1-262-754-5030. For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please visit www.agilent.com/en/accessibility.
Travel Required:
Occasional
Shift:
Day
Duration:
No End Date
Job Function:
R&D


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