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Lab Manager Jobs in Waterloo, ON (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Manager

Kitchener, ON · On-site

The Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) will work closely with the Director Chemistry to drive improvements in both quality and efficiency within the Sample Preparation Department. This role ...

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Manager

Kitchener, ON · On-site

The Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) will work closely with the Director Chemistry to drive improvements in both quality and efficiency within the Sample Preparation Department. This role ...

Certified Group

Lab Tech

Kitchener, ON · On-site

Lab Tech 1 We currently, we have an opening for a Lab Technician I ... Reporting to the Support Services Manager. Primary tasks include the organization of day-to-day ...

Certified Group

Lab Tech

Kitchener, ON · On-site

CA$18 - CA$19/hr

Lab Tech 1 We currently, we have an opening for a Lab Technician I ... Reporting to the Support Services Manager. Primary tasks include the organization of day-to-day ...

Certified Group

Toxicology Lab Tech 1

Kitchener, ON · On-site

Job Summary The Toxicology Lab Technician I supports the analytical testing of nicotine, tobacco ... Manage inventory of laboratory supplies, reagents, standards, and consumables to support ...

Dynacare

Lab Assistant

Kitchener, ON · On-site

CA$21 - CA$23.25/hr

You have completed Secondary School and a Laboratory Assistant training program or a Medical Lab ... Prioritize and self-manage within a deadline-oriented environment * Be extremely detail oriented

Dynacare

Lab Assistant

Kitchener, ON · On-site

CA$21 - CA$23.25/hr

You have completed Secondary School and a Laboratory Assistant training program or a Medical Lab ... Prioritize and self-manage within a deadline-oriented environment * Be extremely detail oriented

Certified Group

Micro Lab Tech 2

Kitchener, ON · On-site

We are currently looking for a Microbiology Lab Technician 2 to join our growing team! JOB SUMMARY ... Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Tech 2

Kitchener, ON

We are currently looking for a Microbiology Lab Technician 2 to join our growing team! JOB SUMMARY ... Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals ...

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Lab Manager information

See Waterloo, ON salary details

$27K

$74.1K

$114.2K

How much do lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab manager in Waterloo, ON is $74,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,806.00 and $87,641.00 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 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 several years of experience in laboratory settings. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills are essential, and certifications like OSHA safety training or specific technical licenses can be advantageous.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

The highest paying jobs in a laboratory setting are often senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research strategies. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and organization.

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.

Do you need a PhD to be a lab manager?

A PhD is not typically required to be a lab manager; most positions require a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, along with experience in laboratory operations, management skills, and knowledge of lab procedures. Advanced degrees may be preferred for managing research-intensive labs, but practical experience and organizational abilities are often more important.

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 does a Laboratory Manager do?

A Laboratory Manager oversees daily operations in a laboratory, including managing staff, ensuring safety protocols, maintaining equipment, and coordinating experiments or research activities. They often handle budgeting, compliance with regulations, and may require knowledge of laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

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 Waterloo, ON? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Waterloo, ON are:
What cities near Waterloo, ON are hiring for Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Waterloo, ON with the most Lab Manager job openings:
Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Manager job openings in Waterloo, ON as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,145 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Chemistry Lab Manager

Certified Group

Kitchener, ON • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Sr. Director Chemistry, the Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) in conjunction with the Shift Supervisors (Sample Preparation) is overall responsible for the running of the Sample Preparation team in the laboratory. In this capacity, the Shift Supervisors (Sample Preparation) report directly into the Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation).  

The Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) will work closely with the Director Chemistry to drive improvements in both quality and efficiency within the Sample Preparation Department.

This role requires the Manager, Chemistry (Sample Preparation) to have a detailed knowledge of the laboratory processes, quality requirements, methods, and equipment to enable them to lead trouble shooting and ensure full compliance to methods and laboratory procedures, including applicable Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) & Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements.

While this job will primarily be on the day shift. Flexibility in working hours is expected to enable operational business needs to be addressed e.g. peak times, unforeseen circumstances.

Responsibilities:
  • Manages the day to day activities of the sample preparation area through the Shift Supervisors and Shift Leaders providing direction, guidance and advice as required, including:
    • Ensuring that internal and external deadlines are met and procedures are followed.
    • Prioritization and allocation of workload.
    • Lead improvements in quality and throughput for the Sample Preparation area.
    • Recommending equipment needs and resources for the Sample Preparation function.
    • Equipment and method troubleshooting.
    • Oversees training:
      • Ensures training covers quality management procedures, technical procedures related to the role, methods related to assigned testing, safety procedures and protocols, as well as regulatory requirements and standards, including ISO 17025 guidelines
      • The Manager shall ensure that training is conducted by qualified personnel, the necessary SOPs, test methods and training records are issued, training is documented and records are maintained
  • Manager shall verify the individual has demonstrated competency before authorizing them to perform specific tasks independently
  • The Manager can organize outside training sessions for team as approved through the Training Action Suggestion
  • Ensures cross training to equip team members with multiple skills in order to maximize flexibility of available resources
  • Work in cooperation and communication with the Production, Project Coordinator(s) to ensure availability of resources and equipment to maximize utilization and throughput.
  • Solving of technical issues / client inquires.
  • Assists the Director Chemistry in developing and executing plans for improvements in operational efficiencies.
  • Develops new SOPs as needed and maintains existing SOPs describing Sample Preparation processes
  • Will participate in performance review process
  • Will work closely with Shift Supervisors, Shift Leaders and Human Resources to promote a positive workforce
  • Will work closely with Health & Safety to ensure compliance and to promote Health & Safety. Working with Health & Safety, will be responsible to be actively involved with regards to employee's WSIB return to work plan and modified duties
  • The employee shall implement the Laboratory Quality Policy and perform their duties in accordance to existing project specific requirements, current Test Methods, study plans and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
  • Compliance to Health & Safety policies and procedures and wear required Personal Protective equipment at all times
  • Other duties as assigned
Education:
  • Degree or equivalent experience
  • Diploma/Degree in Chemistry related program or equivalent experience
Supervision
  • Directly lead a team of approximately three to eight supervisors.
  • Indirectly oversee a laboratory workforce of approximately 15 to 40 employees.
Experience
  • Several years' experience in laboratory leadership or equivalent 
  • Minimum 5 years' experience in Sample Preparation 
  • Strong knowledge and understanding of sample extraction and clean-up
  • Minimum 2 years' experience in a leading role related to sample extraction  
  • Detailed understanding of ISO 17025, GLP & GMP

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