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Lab Manager Jobs in Independence, MO (NOW HIRING)

Tnemec Company Inc.

Color Lab Manager

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

The Color Department Manager is responsible for leading all North Kansas City-based color operations, including color file development, color sample production, color matching systems, and color ...

The Good Life MedStaff

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Olathe, KS · On-site

$2.2K - $2.9K/wk

Cath Lab Manager / Clinical Director Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time Location: [Insert Location] Job Summary: The Cath Lab Technologist assists physicians during diagnostic and interventional cardiac ...

New

Mission Hospital

Radiology - Cath Lab Tech

Olathe, KS · On-site

$3.0K/wk

Cath Lab Manager / Clinical DirectorJob Type: Full-Time / Part-TimeLocation: [Insert Location]Job Summary:The Cath Lab Technologist assists physicians during diagnostic and interventional cardiac ...

Quest Diagnostics

Laboratory Manager

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$88K/yr

The lab manager will have overall responsibility for the planning and supervision of all technical and operational activities in the Chemistry and Hematology departments. Responsible for operating ...

Highbrow LLC

TestGrid Lab Engineer

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

MDM-based device management * Experience with Tosca and/or Java-based automation frameworks * Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work independently in a lab environment * Comfortable ...

Syndicus, Inc.

Lab Assistant

Kansas City, MO

Train others on waste management. Alert lab leadership of issues or discrepancies involving sample integrity, supply inventory, safety concerns, or analysis irregularities. Communicate ...

New

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Lab Manager information

See Independence, MO salary details

$29.6K

$83.8K

$135.9K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Independence, MO is $83,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,800.00 and $101,200.00 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 Independence, MO?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Independence, MO are:

What cities near Independence, MO are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Independence, MO with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Independence, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,845 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Color Lab Manager

North Kansas City, MO • On-site

Tnemec Company, Inc.
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Tnemec Company, Inc.external

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title
Color Department Manager (NKC)

Department
Color / Color Lab / Color Sample Department

Reporting Structure

  • Reports To: Director of Quality Control, Color, and Testing Labs
  • Direct Reports: Color Chemists, Color Sample Technicians, and/or Color Specialists
  • Indirect Influence: Product Support, R&D, Production, and QC personnel

Primary Purpose

The Color Department Manager is responsible for leading all North Kansas City based color-related operations within the organization, including color file development, color sample production, color matching systems, and color-related production support.

This role ensures the delivery of consistent, high-quality color performance across products and manufacturing sites while developing team capability, driving process improvements, and aligning color operations with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1) Leadership & People Management

  • Directly manage, coach, and develop Color Department personnel, including performance management, training, and career development.
  • Build and maintain strong team capability in color matching, file development, instrumentation, and systems use.
  • Establish clear expectations, priorities, and accountability for safety, quality, and productivity.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, ownership, and collaboration across departments.

2) Color Operations Ownership

  • Oversee all color file development for new products, processes, and equipment implementations.
  • Ensure the production of high-quality color samples meeting internal and customer specifications.
  • Manage workload prioritization to meet deadlines, business needs, and customer requirements.
  • Maintain efficient workflows for color matching, file building, and sample preparation.

3) Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with R&D, Product Development, and Product Support to define color acceptance criteria and evaluate color feasibility.
  • Work closely with Production and QC to support manufacturing operations and resolve color-related issues.
  • Interface with Sales, Customer Service, and Marketing to support customer needs and sample deliverables.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and external partners on pigments, colorants, and color technologies.

4) Production Support & Troubleshooting

  • Lead investigation and resolution of color-related production issues and customer complaints.
  • Provide guidance on off-spec color batches, including rework, correction, or disposition recommendations.
  • Support troubleshooting across multiple sites and systems, including color instrumentation and software.

5) Quality & Standards Management

  • Ensure adherence to company standards, testing methods, and documentation requirements.
  • Review and improve color processes to ensure accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency.

6) Systems, Technology & Data

  • Oversee use and optimization of color instrumentation and software (e.g., DataColor systems).
  • Ensure proper use of formulation systems and analytical tools (Excel-based tools).
  • Maintain accurate and traceable data systems for formulations, samples, and color files.
  • Evaluate and implement improvements in color technology, automation, and workflows.

7) Documentation & Reporting

  • Ensure all color-related work is well-documented, traceable, and audit-ready.

Internal & External Relationships

  • R&D / Product Development
  • Product Support / QC / Testing Lab
  • Production (KC, Baltimore, and other sites)
  • Sales, Marketing, Customer Service
  • Purchasing and Suppliers
  • Rework Teams

Required Knowledge, Skills & Competencies

Technical Expertise

  • Advanced knowledge of color matching, color file development, and coatings technology.
  • Strong understanding of colorants, pigments, and manufacturing processes.
  • Strong understanding of color measurement systems and instrumentation.

Leadership Skills

  • Proven ability to lead teams, develop talent, and drive performance.
  • Strong decision-making and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective communicator across technical and non-technical audiences.

Operational Excellence

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and quality.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific field preferred.
  • 7–10+ years of experience in coatings, color technology, or related field.
  • Prior experience in team leadership or supervisory role strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency with color software systems.
  • Ability to meet color aptitude requirements where applicable.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

  • Frequent standing/walking; computer work required.
  • Operation of laboratory and batch equipment.

Safety & Compliance

All employees are required to follow company safety policies and procedures and will receive training in hazardous, safety, and environmental practices.

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