1

Lab Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Operations

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$72K - $155K/yr

Terray Therapeutics is seeking a motivated, creative, and experienced Lab Operations Professional. As an integral member of our Operations team the candidate will support a variety of workstreams ...

The Lab Operations candidate will be responsible for the operation, safety, and performance of ML001. This is a hands-on role that owns lab readiness, asset management, inventory, safety and ...

Job Summary We're looking for a motivated, detail-oriented lab operations team member to support Etched's hardware bring-up and validation efforts. This is a full-time, on-site role ideal for new ...

Job Summary We're looking for a motivated, detail-oriented lab operations team member to support Etched's hardware bring-up and validation efforts. This is a full-time, on-site role ideal for new ...

As a Lab Operations Engineer, you will be at the center of a cross-functional lab environment responsible for keeping our high-speed measurement and test infrastructure running reliably. You will ...

Job Summary Etched is looking for a Lab Operations Manager to own the day-to-day operational backbone of our Platforms Validation lab. This is a hands-on operational role reporting to the Head of Lab ...

Job Summary Etched is looking for a Lab Operations Manager to own the day-to-day operational backbone of our Platforms Validation lab. This is a hands-on operational role reporting to the Head of Lab ...

A day in the life As Lab Operations Lead at Swift, your mission is to run Swift's R&D facility so that the people, tools, and workflows on the floor consistently turn high-level technical priorities ...

A day in the life As Lab Operations Lead at Swift, your mission is to run Swift's R&D facility so that the people, tools, and workflows on the floor consistently turn high-level technical priorities ...

Lab Operations Lead

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

A day in the life As Lab Operations Lead at Swift, your mission is to run Swift's R&D facility so that the people, tools, and workflows on the floor consistently turn high-level technical priorities ...

The AMS Lab Operation Engineer works in production engineering environments where system uptime, repeatability, and execution reliability are essential. This role is designed for methodical engineers ...

Director, Lab Operations

Fremont, CA · On-site

$210K - $245K/yr

Beyond overseeing daily operations, you will have the autonomy to shape the future of the lab, reporting directly to the VP of Operations with full accountability for departmental AOPs and OKRs. As a ...

Beyond overseeing daily operations, you will have the autonomy to shape the future of the lab, reporting directly to the VP of Operations with full accountability for departmental AOPs and OKRs. As a ...

Beyond overseeing daily operations, you will have the autonomy to shape the future of the lab, reporting directly to the VP of Operations with full accountability for departmental AOPs and OKRs. As a ...

Lead lab operations management including tracking and analyzing key operational metrics, identifying and implementing new metrics to drive lab performance, strategizing and executing workflow ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Operations information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do lab operations jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Lab Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Lab Operations, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, quality control, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), instrumentation calibration, and regulatory standards like GLP or ISO is essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure smooth workflow and collaboration within the lab. These competencies are crucial for maintaining accurate results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab functioning.

What are some common challenges faced in lab operations roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in lab operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with safety regulations, managing inventory and equipment calibration, and ensuring smooth workflow coordination among team members. Staying organized and implementing standardized protocols can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, strong communication skills and regular training support efficient collaboration between scientists, technicians, and support staff, which is crucial for minimizing errors and maintaining a productive lab environment.

What are Lab Operations?

Lab Operations refers to the processes, systems, and people responsible for ensuring that a laboratory runs smoothly and efficiently. This includes managing equipment, supplies, safety protocols, scheduling, and regulatory compliance. Those working in lab operations may coordinate experiments, maintain instruments, oversee inventory, and support researchers or scientists. The goal is to create a safe and organized environment that enables scientific work to be carried out effectively and in compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Lab Operations vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab OperationsLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a science or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentInvolves overseeing lab workflows, managing staff, and ensuring complianceHands-on testing, sample preparation, and data recording in laboratory settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research labs, clinical labs, and industrial settings for management rolesCommon in clinical, medical, and industrial laboratories for technical tasks

Lab Operations professionals focus on managing laboratory workflows, staff, and compliance, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Laboratory Technicians perform hands-on testing and sample analysis, typically with an associate degree or certification. While both roles are essential in laboratory settings, Lab Operations roles are more managerial and oversight-oriented, whereas Laboratory Technicians are more technical and operational.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Operations jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Operations jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Operations job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Lab Operations

$72K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Company Overview: Terray Therapeutics is a venture-backed biotechnology company led by pioneers and long-time leaders in artificial intelligence, synthetic chemistry, automation, and nanotechnology. We're generating chemical data purpose-built to propel drug discovery into the information age - and we're doing it on a larger scale and faster than has ever before been possible.
Our closed loop system generates precise chemical datasets at unrivaled scale that work seamlessly with AI to systematically map biochemical interactions between small molecules and causes of disease. Iterative cycles of virtual molecular design and experimentation power AI and machine learning models, which in turn guide the next cycle of design. With a chemistry engine that measures billions of interactions daily and becomes increasingly precise with every cycle, we can answer an unprecedented array of questions - deriving insights that enable us to predictably create drugs for patients in need.
Position Summary: Terray Therapeutics is seeking a motivated, creative, and experienced Lab Operations Professional. As an integral member of our Operations team the candidate will support a variety of workstreams including materials management, lab safety, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement projects. Our ideal candidate will have demonstrated a track record of excellence with an ability to deliver in a self-directed entrepreneurial environment working cross functionally with a variety of stakeholders.
The core responsibilities of this position are:
  • EHS Support: Safety is #1 at Terray, in this role, you'll serve as the first line EHS Representative of Operations to help lab teams maintain compliance with Terray Policies.
  • Inventory Management: This role will be responsible for managing inventory of regularly used supplies in both a small central warehouse and depot supply sites throughout the building. You will help support our scientists by ensuring that their materials are stocked and available for use.
  • Equipment Maintenance and Operations: This role will perform routine preventative maintenance on certain lab equipment maintained by operations and will coordinate with the lab team for vendor performed maintenance for assigned equipment. You will help maintain shared equipment to allow our scientists to focus on the science.
  • Laboratory support services: This role will be responsible for ensuring our scientists have glassware and equipment that is properly cleaned, dried, and available for research activities, additionally you'll make sure that custom buffers are prepared, quality controlled and stocked for the team.

Working Conditions:
  • Laboratory environment with potential exposure to chemicals and biological materials
  • Regular lifting of supplies and equipment (up to 100 lbs)
  • May require occasional weekend or evening work

Experience and Qualifications: Part of Terray's success is nurtured by a hands-on work environment where everyone is accountable, vested in a vision of excellence, and actively taking part in the success of the business. Terray supports a positive work environment where employees can feel engaged, recognized and empowered to be creative.
Qualifications:
  • BS, minimum 3 years of experience in lab operations
  • Must have a great work ethic and impeccable integrity
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal direction and oversight while handling multiple tasks
  • Excellent judgment and keen attention to detail.
  • Experience with LIMS
  • Commitment to safety
  • Experience with Kanban material management systems
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Effective communication skills for interacting with scientists, vendors, and management
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks
  • Problem-solving mindset with proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues

Compensation Details: $72,000 - $155,000 depending on experience and qualifications; participation in the Company's option plan; 3% retirement safe harbor contribution; fully-paid medical, dental, vision, life and disability benefits.