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Laboratory Director Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Director information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$40.2K

$112.8K

$166.4K

How much do laboratory director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory director in Decatur, AL is $112,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,800.00 and $123,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory director?

A Laboratory Director is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the operations, quality control, and regulatory compliance of a laboratory. They ensure that all laboratory procedures adhere to industry standards and legal requirements, manage staff, and develop and implement policies for efficient workflow. Laboratory Directors often have advanced degrees in laboratory science or a related field and possess extensive experience in laboratory management. Their leadership is crucial in maintaining the accuracy, reliability, and safety of laboratory results.

What does a laboratory director do?

As a laboratory director, you oversee all operations within a medical lab. Your responsibilities include completing administrative duties, managing personnel, supervising procedures, checking supplies, maintaining the equipment, and setting up the lab. Depending on your qualifications and skills, you may also assist with planning experiments and interpreting test results. It is your responsibility to ensure all staff activities and tests meet safety standards and regulations and produce quality results. A laboratory director works closely with the laboratory manager and communicates with other departments, such as human resources and clinical staff, so you need strong communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Director, you need advanced knowledge in laboratory science, strong management abilities, and typically a relevant advanced degree with significant laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), quality control protocols, and certifications such as CLIA or CAP accreditation are often required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for guiding teams and maintaining regulatory compliance. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring reliable laboratory operations, staff performance, and adherence to industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory directors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Laboratory Directors often face challenges such as maintaining regulatory compliance, managing diverse teams, and ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of test results. Balancing administrative responsibilities with scientific oversight can be demanding, especially in high-volume or specialized labs. Effective management involves staying updated with changing regulations, fostering clear communication among staff, and implementing robust quality control processes. Building a culture of continuous improvement and professional development also helps address these challenges proactively.

What is the difference between Laboratory Director vs Laboratory Supervisor?

AspectLaboratory DirectorLaboratory Supervisor
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant advanced degree (e.g., PhD, MD) and certificationUsually requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple labs or departments, strategic planningManages daily operations within a specific lab
ResponsibilitiesSets policies, ensures compliance, manages budgetsSupervises staff, ensures quality control, handles workflow

The Laboratory Director holds a higher-level, strategic role overseeing entire laboratories or networks, often requiring advanced credentials. The Laboratory Supervisor focuses on daily operational management within a specific lab. Both roles are essential but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required qualifications.

More about Laboratory Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Decatur, AL?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Director jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Director jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Laboratory Director jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Laboratory Director job openings:

Laboratory Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Director job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,767 per year, or $54.2 per hour.

Laboratory Manager

Normal, AL • On-site

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
Education • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical Universityexternal

$43K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee laboratory setups, maintenance of equipment, and assist with construction of new equipment.

  • Maintain inventory of chemicals and laboratory equipment, process bids and purchasing, and dispose of chemical waste.

  • Assist students and faculty with operation of laboratory instruments, train and supervise support student employees, and enforce chemical safety practices.

Job description

Salary: $43,000.00 - $54,700.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300892
Department: Chemistry
Opening Date: 08/11/2026
Description
Summary:
The Laboratory Manager reports directly to the Chairperson and is responsible for overseeing and assisting with laboratory setups, maintenance of equipment and performing other job-related duties as assigned.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Maintain and repair analytical instrumentation.
  • Assist students and faculty with operation of instruments during regularly scheduled classes and other times.
  • Assist faculty in construction of new equipment.
  • Assist with instruction for introductory classes as needed.
  • Train and supervise support student employees who prepare solutions and equipment.
  • Maintain inventory of chemicals and laboratory equipment and manage the storeroom.
  • Select and schedule experiments complementary to lecture text and schedules.
  • Prepare and update lab sheets for each experiment.
  • Advise other laboratory instructors of specific idiosyncrasies relating to chemicals, and equipment for each experiment.
  • Process bids and purchasing for chemicals.
  • Dispose of chemical waste.
  • Enforce departmental chemical safety practices.
  • Remain up-to-date with changes in standards for chemical handling, storage and disposal.
  • Maintain regularly scheduled office hours for consultation with students.
  • Serve on departmental committees where appropriate.
  • Setup chemicals and equipment in introductory labs.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry or related area.
  • Master's Degree in Chemistry preferred.
  • Electronic training and/or experience.

Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to efficiently operate a personal computer and associated software (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and Ellucian Banner
  • Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information
  • Ability to interact in an effective and appropriate manner with diverse populations, the University community and the public
  • Ability to maintain files accurately, in paper and in software programs
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Ability to effectively supervise personnel and complete all associated personnel actions in a timely and accurate manner
  • Ability to maintain and repair analytical instrumentation
  • Ability to construct new equipment
  • Ability to assist students in the use of laboratory instruments and equipment
  • Ability to effectively operate a chemistry laboratory and direct student employees
  • Ability to maintain inventory of chemicals and laboratory equipment

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have a bachelor's degree in chemistry or related area?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have electronic training and/or experience.?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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