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Lab Manager Jobs in Lake Forest, IL (NOW HIRING)

ENGINEERING LAB TECH

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Job Title Laboratory Technician Function Engineering Reports to Product Engineer/Lab Manager Supervises n/a Mission Support engineering initiatives by preparing and executing tests utilizing data ...

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 ...

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 ...

Lab Technician

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Job Title: Lab Technician The Lab Technician will be responsible for performing essential ... Utilize time management skills to work efficiently under pressure. * Prepare graphs and charts, and ...

The QC Lab Supervisor I is responsible for the organization, administration, and supervision of Lab ... Ensures effective and efficient utilization of laboratory resources through management of ...

The QC Lab Supervisor I is responsible for the organization, administration, and supervision of Lab ... Ensures effective and efficient utilization of laboratory resources through management of ...

The QC Lab Supervisor I is responsible for the organization, administration, and supervision of Lab ... Ensures effective and efficient utilization of laboratory resources through management of ...

The QC Lab Supervisor I is responsible for the organization, administration, and supervision of Lab ... Ensures effective and efficient utilization of laboratory resources through management of ...

Showing results 21-40

Lab Manager information

See Lake Forest, IL salary details

$32.2K

$91.1K

$147.5K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Lake Forest, IL is $91,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $109,900.00 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 Lake Forest, IL?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Lake Forest, IL are:

What cities near Lake Forest, IL are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Lake Forest, IL with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Lake Forest, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,053 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Pathology Lab Manager + $10k Sign-on Bonus

Forefront Dermatology

Pleasant Prairie, WI • On-site

$500/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Forefront Dermatology rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

794th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
The Pathology Lab Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the dermatopathology laboratory, ensuring the timely, efficient and accurate processing of specimens, managing laboratory staff, maintaining quality control, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The Laboratory Manager works closely with laboratory staff, physicians, and other stakeholders to ensure laboratory operations are aligned with the Forefront's goals and objectives. This position assists with lab bench duties up to 30% of the time, particularly during periods of high volume or staffing shortage to ensure turn around expectations are met.
Schedule: 40 hours, Mon- Fri, 8am-4:30pm
+10k sign on bonus
Here are just a few things we offer:
  • Access to health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account $500 matching contribution
  • Eligible for PTO and Holiday pay
  • Company paid life insurance and long term disability (full-time only)
  • Access to voluntary short term disability insurance (full-time only)
  • Access to additional life insurance
  • Eligible for Accident and Critical Illness Insurance, Hospital Indemnity and Cancer Guardian
  • 401K with employer contribution
  • Profit sharing
  • Employee discounts
  • And much more!

Responsibilities
Management of Core Laboratory Operations
  • Manage daily lab operations to ensure quality, efficiency, and compliance.
  • Monitor workload and adjust staffing to meet demand.
  • Conduct daily lab rounds to assess workflow, staffing, environment and morale.
  • Triage tasks as needed to maintain operational flow.

Team Leadership & Staff Supervision
  • Oversee lab supervisors and technical staff, providing direction, communication, and support aligned with organizational goals.
  • Provide backup coverage for Supervisors during absences or vacancies.
  • Maintain a positive, professional lab culture through coaching, feedback, and performance management.

Training & Staff Development
  • Develop and maintain training programs, including videos, checklists, SOPs, and troubleshooting guides.
  • Coordinate orientation for new hires and provide ongoing or remedial training for existing staff as needed.
  • Oversee technical competency assessments, ensure appropriate certification and performance standards.
  • Lead staff recruiting, onboarding, and career development efforts.

Scheduling, Timekeeping & Payroll
  • Review / approve work schedules, ensuring schedules are published at least 2 pay periods in advance.
  • Approve PTO requests while maintaining adequate daily supervisor and staffing levels.
  • Review & approve timesheets for payroll for direct reports and one level down in supervisor absence.

Performance Management
  • Conduct 90-day and annual performance reviews for staff, providing clear feedback and growth plans.
  • Perform biannual technical competency assessments and create staff development plans as needed.
  • Lead performance improvement initiatives, including documentation, monitoring, and follow-up.

Workflow Optimization & Process Improvement
  • Analyze workflows to improve efficiency and scalability for growth.
  • Present data/ recommendations and implement approved workflow, staffing, and/ or equipment changes.
  • Support selection and acquisition of new equipment, including cost analysis and operational impact. .

Compliance & Quality Assurance
  • Ensure regulatory compliance (CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, etc.) through training and monitoring.
  • Oversee incident documentation, root cause analysis, and procedural updates.
  • Maintain quality standards via QC checks, instrument monitoring, and SOPs.

Equipment & Facility Management
  • Maintain facility and equipment to ensure safety and functionality.
  • Coordinate equipment validation, repair, and replacement.
  • Manage staining quality and supply inventory.

Other Lab & Administrative Functions
    • Perform bench work as needed to support staffing and turnaround times up to 30% of the time.
    • Participate in professional development activities.
    • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications
Education
  • Minimum of Associates Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related program
  • HT/L (ASCP)
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in a high volume pathology lab
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in a leadership position.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to safely operate various laboratory equipment.
  • Understanding of protocols and chemicals related to staining procedures.
  • Knowledge of CLIA lab requirements.
  • Must be detail oriented.
  • Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience. Must be able to demonstrate leadership by serving as an example to others with regard to professional behavior, handling multiple tasks, maintaining a positive attitude, and in response to organizational change.
  • Proficiency with a LIS, EMR, & Microsoft Office. Must be able to learn new software quickly.
  • Must possess excellent leadership, organizational, and computer skills.
  • Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with staff, leadership team, and pathologists.
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize appropriately, and work well both individually and as part of a team.
  • Ability to use time productively and contribute to high levels of company operational efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of information.
Forefront will never request personal information, such as your social security number or banking information, via text or email. In addition, Forefront does not use external messaging applications such as WireApp or Skype to communicate with candidates. If you receive communication or requests of this nature, delete them.
Forefront Dermatology is committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants that is free from discrimination based upon age, race, religion, color, disability, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact hr@forefrontderm.com to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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