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Lab Manager Jobs in La Grande, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Manager information

See La Grande, OR salary details

$30.9K

$87.3K

$141.4K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in La Grande, OR is $87,300.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $105,400.00 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 La Grande, OR?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in La Grande, OR are:

What cities near La Grande, OR are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near La Grande, OR with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in La Grande, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,300 per year, or $42 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist (Technologist) - Full-Time - 0.8 FTE

Grande Ronde Hospital

La Grande, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Grande Ronde Hospital rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

226th of 1,061 rated hospitals


Job description

The Medical Technologist / Medical Laboratory Scientist is responsible to the Laboratory Manager and the Laboratory Medical Director. The MT/MLS takes direction from the section lead MLS. The MT/MLS will perform clinical laboratory procedures in microbiology, chemistry, hematology, serology, blood bank, parasitology, referred procedures, urinalysis, and phlebotomy. The MT/MLS will also share in performance of clinical lab functions such as quality assurance, cost effective management and other projects associated with operation of the laboratory, including meeting the scheduling requirements of the laboratory. The MT/MLS may also be required to perform special tasks including individual projects, section head responsibilities, serving on Hospital committees or QI teams.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Competent to perform basic computer data entry and clerical functions, including maintenance of records.
  2. Good quality writing and verbal skills.
  3. Evidence of continuing education appropriate for skill level and areas of responsibility.
  4. Well-groomed and demonstrates appropriate, professional conduct.
  5. Follow written, pictorial and verbal instructions.
  6. Maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, and appearance of work areas.
  7. Flexibility, personal integrity and the ability to work effectively.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  1. Graduate of an accredited program of medical technology or a Bachelor's degree in medical technology or biological science with certification from an accredited National agency. Must obtain certification within two years from the date of hire.
  2. MT (ASCP) / MLS (ASCP) / MLT (ASCP) or equivalent certification.
  3. Current American Heart Association BLS card required.
  4. Perform test processing and understand the differences in reference ranges of results from specimens received from pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.
  5. Collect venous and capillary blood samples and other body fluid samples from pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.
  6. Work independently with limited supervision.
  7. Lift 50 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  8. Meet laboratory directives for the patients' age-specific, cultural, physical and psychosocial well-being.

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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