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Lab Manager Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

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.

Discuss and explain results to sales team members, lab manager or customers. * Perform mechanical, tribological, and profilometry testing/demos on provided samples. * Connect with prospective ...

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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 23, 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 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 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:

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 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,709 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Lab Tech Assistant III

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$17 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link
https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/39795
Job Number
SE202224
Position Information
Department or Unit Name
Art
Position Headcount
1
Position Title
Lab Tech Assistant III
Academic Year
Academic Year 2026-2027
Term or Semester
All Academic Year
Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student?
Undergrad
Anticipated Pay Range
$17.00-$18.50
Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done?
Orange
Approved Supervisor
Lorena Ochoa
Supervisor Email
lochoa@chapman.edu
Scheduling
Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)
Desired Start Date
05/25/2026
Projected End Date
05/21/2027
Average number of hours per week
Up to 10 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
A Lab Assistant will assist the Art Studio Manager and Art Faculty in the proper functioning of the Wilkinson College of Arts,
Humanities, and Social Sciences Art Department Labs. The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and
maintain the Art Studio Lab's Policy and Procedure to ensure a safe workspace for all. The Art Department Labs include
Sculpture, Drawing, Painting, Photo, Fiber, and Check-Out areas.
The ideal candidate will complete daily tasks, assigned projects, and remain proactive towards our goals of creating an
organized, safe and inclusive space for all Art Department attendees. This position requires a highly responsible,
dependable, and detail-oriented student with the ability to handle one-on-one, as well as group settings with grace and
respect. The Lab Assistant should be well-organized, work well independently, and provide exceptional support to the Art
Studio Manager, Art Department Faculty, students, and guests.
Responsibilities
  • Schedules and performs Stretcher Bar Workshops for interested students through Calendly.
  • Organizes the end of semester clean out and ensures all tasks are completed.
  • Completes monthly consumable inventory of the Drawing, Painting and Sculpture Labs.
  • Completes monthly safety inspections of the Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture labs.
  • Completes Opening and Closing Checklists for each assigned Lab every shift. The labs include Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Fiber, & Digi Lab areas, and include the outside areas of the Sculpture Lab and Drawing & Painting Labs.
  • Provides support to Art Department faculty and students including but not limited to proper tool usage, tool selection, and adherence to Policy and Procedure during each shift.
  • Leads by example in every scenario.
  • Attends all Lab Tech Assistant Group Trainings. 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.
  • Trains other Lab Techs on Shared Spaces policy and procedure.
  • Assist with Equipment Return and Check-Out as a contingency.
  • Ensure that all equipment is accounted for and functioning properly at time of check out.
  • Communicates with Art Studio Manager if any concerns arise.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Professional, dependable, organized, and able to multi-task and collaborate. Proven accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills to consistently meet deadlines and Daily Procedures.
  • On time and dependable for scheduled shifts. Adhere to the Policy and Procedure for absences if necessary.
  • Available during Fridays, evenings and weekends.
  • Comfortable leading by example and enforcing Policy, Procedure, and Lab Safety during shifts.
  • Demonstrates a sense of urgency.
  • Ability to work independently from an assigned list of duties.
  • Ability to organize workshop requests through a Calendly calendar.
  • Comfortable working independently with woodworking equipment such as the table saw, miter saw, and pneumatic staplers.
  • Has completed ART122: Objects in Space or equivalent experience.
  • Ability to take initiative on projects and various tasks throughout the department.
  • Ability to work well and quickly under pressure, both individually and as part of a team.

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with power tools is preferred. Availability for evening and weekend work hours.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required?
Yes

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