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Lab Manager Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

ZO Skin Health, Inc.

Lab Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

The Lab Manager is responsible for leading the R&D laboratory, formulation development activities, and execution of product innovation initiatives for ZO Skin Health. This role oversees a team of ...

ZO Skin Health, Inc

Lab Manager

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

The Lab Manager is responsible for leading the R&D laboratory, formulation development activities, and execution of product innovation initiatives for ZO Skin Health. This role oversees a team of ...

Agendia

Clinical Laboratory Scientist l/ll

Irvine, CA · On-site

Consults with the Lab Director, Lab Ops Director or Lab Manager regarding the daily work flow of the clinical laboratory and troubleshooting * Performs all aspects of laboratory procedures following ...

Agendia

Clinical Laboratory Scientist l/ll

Irvine, CA · On-site

Consults with the Lab Director, Lab Ops Director or Lab Manager regarding the daily work flow of the clinical laboratory and troubleshooting * Performs all aspects of laboratory procedures following ...

Agendia, Inc

Clinical Laboratory Scientist l/ll

Irvine, CA · On-site

$48 - $53/hr

Consults with the Lab Director, Lab Ops Director or Lab Manager regarding the daily work flow of the clinical laboratory and troubleshooting * Performs all aspects of laboratory procedures following ...

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant 1

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and maintain the Art Studio Lab ... Excellent time management skills to consistently meet deadlines and Daily Procedures. * On time and ...

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant 1

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and maintain the Art Studio Lab ... Excellent time management skills to consistently meet deadlines and Daily Procedures. * On time and ...

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant 2

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Assists Art Studio Lab Manager with assigned Department Workshops. * Assist with Equipment Return and Check-Out as a contingency. Ensure that all equipment is accounted for and functioning properly ...

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant III

Orange, CA · On-site

$17 - $18.50/hr

Assists Art Studio Lab Manager with assigned Department Workshops. * Assists with the scheduling of Shared Spaces as a contingency, including proper installation and deinstallation practices.

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant III

Orange, CA · On-site

$17 - $18.50/hr

Assists Art Studio Lab Manager with assigned Department Workshops. * Assists with the scheduling of Shared Spaces as a contingency, including proper installation and deinstallation practices.

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant 2

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Assists Art Studio Lab Manager with assigned Department Workshops. * Assist with Equipment Return and Check-Out as a contingency. Ensure that all equipment is accounted for and functioning properly ...

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Lab Manager information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$34.9K

$98.7K

$159.9K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Irvine, CA is $98,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $119,100.00 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 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 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.

More about Lab Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Lab Manager job openings:
Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,709 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Lab Manager

ZO Skin Health, Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Summary: The Lab Manager is responsible for leading the R&D laboratory, formulation development activities, and execution of product innovation initiatives for ZO Skin Health. This role oversees a team of Chemists while driving the development, optimization, and commercialization of ZO products. The Lab Manager serves as the technical leader, working alongside the VP of R&D for formulation strategy, laboratory operations, external development partnerships, and cross-functional project execution, ensuring products meet efficacy, aesthetic, quality, regulatory, and cost objectives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead the R&D laboratory and manage a team of Chemists, providing coaching, development, performance management, and technical guidance.
  • Drive formulation innovation by developing and overseeing the creation of new product prototypes, reformulations, and product enhancements aligned with brand strategy and consumer needs.
  • Provide scientific leadership for skincare, OTC and Rx product development programs from concept through commercialization.
  • Establish laboratory priorities, allocate resources, and manage project timelines to ensure successful execution of R&D initiatives.
  • Serve as the primary technical resource for formulation troubleshooting, manufacturing challenges, stability concerns, and product quality improvements.
  • Direct stability programs and interpret data to ensure product robustness, performance, and shelf-life requirements are achieved.
  • Lead scale-up and technology transfer activities, ensuring formulations are successfully transitioned from laboratory development to commercial manufacturing.
  • Manage relationships with external formulation partners, contract manufacturers, testing laboratories, CROs, and other development partners to support project execution and commercialization.
  • Collaborate closely with Product Development, Marketing, Regulatory, Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing teams throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, ingredients, and market trends to identify opportunities for innovation and competitive differentiation.
  • Ensure compliance with global regulatory requirements, ingredient policies, safety standards, and GMP requirements.
  • Review and approve technical documentation, development reports, specifications, protocols, and laboratory records.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on laboratory efficiency, innovation, data integrity, and process optimization.
  • Manage laboratory budgets, equipment maintenance, inventory planning, and capital expenditures.
  • Lead laboratory readiness for audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews.
  • Lab manager is expected to spend 25% on the bench and 75% on managerial tasks

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or related scientific discipline required; advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum 8+ years of skincare formulation and product development experience, including cosmetics, OTC, and/or Rx products.
  • Previous experience leading technical teams and mentoring scientific staff.

Required Skills
  • Strong expertise in skincare formulation, ingredient technologies, stability, and product development.
  • Experience managing scale-up, technology transfer, and commercialization activities.
  • Proven ability to manage external partners, including contract manufacturers, testing laboratories, and development partners.
  • Strong understanding of regulatory requirements, product safety, and quality standards.
  • Demonstrated success leading cross-functional projects and delivering results on time.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Work Environment: The work environment is indoors in a professional office environment. The floor surfaces are carpeted in office areas and conference rooms with vinyl floor covering typical in hallways, break rooms and computer rooms.
Work Hours: The work schedule is 5 days per week, 8 hours per day. Initial start time may vary, with work hours typically from 8am-5pm. Work hours and shifts are subject to change depending on operating business conditions and needs. The position resides in Orange County but is hybrid with 1 day being remote work.
Physical and Mental Demands: Sedentary, exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, or negligible amounts of force frequently, to move objects. This job also requires constant sitting. Constant use of the upper extremities is required to reach, handle, and position tools and equipment. The employee must know and follow proper safety protocols and maintain a professional and polished appearance.
Supervisory Responsibilities: 1-3 direct reports
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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