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Lab Manager Jobs in Opelika, AL (NOW HIRING)

Auburn University

Lab Technician

Auburn University, AL · On-site

$35K/yr

Inventory control and ordering of lab supplies. * Maintenance and handling of viable cultures. * Preparing complex media with limited direction. * Interfacing with outside vendors and service ...

Epta

R&D LAB Technician III

Columbus, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Be part of a dynamic R&D LAB team responsible for thermal testing of products to achieve global ... Proven ability to independently perform loop tuning and manage closed-loop system stability.

Epta

R&D LAB Technician III

Columbus, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Be part of a dynamic R&D LAB team responsible for thermal testing of products to achieve global ... Proven ability to independently perform loop tuning and manage closed-loop system stability.

Aptar Group

Applications Development Technician

Auburn, AL · On-site

$39.50 - $49.25/hr

Applications Development Technician reporting to the Senior Material Science Lab Manager. This position will be based in Auburn, AL. THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS * You will be responsible for ...

Aptar Group

Applications Development Technician

Auburn, AL · On-site

$39.50 - $49.25/hr

Applications Development Technician reporting to the Senior Material Science Lab Manager. This position will be based in Auburn, AL. THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS * You will be responsible for ...

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Lab Manager information

See Opelika, AL salary details

$29.8K

$84.4K

$136.8K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Opelika, AL is $84,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,300.00 and $101,900.00 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.
More about Lab Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Opelika, AL?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Opelika, AL are:

What cities near Opelika, AL are hiring for Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Opelika, AL with the most Lab Manager job openings:

Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Opelika, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,429 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Optical Lab Manager FT Auburn AL

Eyemart Express

Auburn, AL • On-site

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Eyemart Express rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optical Lab Manager Full-Time

30 years ago Dr. Barnes founded Eyemart Express to deliver everything a patient needs. It started with one friendly shop in Appleton, WI and has since expanded to over 245 in 42 states. Today, Eyemart Express is celebrated for promptly delivering quality eyewear at great prices, while maintaining great relationships with optometrists and local communities. Were not like everyone else, with local labs in stores, eye exams, and same-day delivery on glasses our customers never miss a moment. Now, you can join one of the nations top optical retailers and improve lives by helping people see better.

As an Optical Lab Manager, you'll lead your team to ensure timely and accurate production of eyeglasses, maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. Your experience in optical lab management will help drive our growth and deliver amazing customer experiences.

Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.

Responsibilities:

  • Lab Management: Maintain the lab area and equipment in a safe and organized manner. Manage the lab team to meet all production goals and objectives.

  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily, weekly, and monthly lab equipment maintenance as scheduled and in accordance with lab/equipment manual specifications.

  • Problem Solving: Identify and solve problems, and facilitate problem-solving among the team.

  • Operational Excellence: Correctly read and interpret prescription specifications, ensure proper lens cutting, and maintain high levels of workmanship and quality.

Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Experience working in the optical industry

  • Experience managing people is preferred

  • Experience working in a lab environment and with optical lab machinery

Benefits:

  • Vision Insurance

  • Dental Insurance

  • Matching 401k

  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

  • Life Insurance

  • Fully paid benefits to maintain licensing requirements and opportunities for advancement

At Eyemart Express, we're dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling needs to ensure our team members can achieve harmony between work and personal life.

If you're ready to join a company that values excellence, invests in your future, and respects your need for balance, submit your resume today! Eyemart Express is where your career takes off.

This posting provides an overview of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.

VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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