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Laboratory Director Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results; either correct the problem or notify the Technical Consultant or Laboratory Director if the problem cannot ...

Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results; either correct the problem or notify the Technical Consultant or Laboratory Director if the problem cannot ...

Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results; either correct the problem or notify the Technical Consultant or Laboratory Director if the problem cannot ...

Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results; either correct the problem or notify the Technical Consultant or Laboratory Director if the problem cannot ...

The individual will perform only those processes that are authorized by the laboratory director requiring a degree of skill commensurate with the individual's education, training or experience, and ...

Laboratory Technician 2

Knoxville, TN

$18.25 - $24/hr

Vocational or Technical Certification in a related field and a minimum of 2 years of direct production within a technical environment or a scientific laboratory is preferred. An associate's degree or ...

Laboratory Technician 2

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Vocational or Technical Certification in a related field and a minimum of 2 years of direct production within a technical environment or a scientific laboratory is preferred. An associate's degree or ...

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Laboratory Director information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$43K

$120.5K

$177.8K

How much do laboratory director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory director in Oak Ridge, TN is $120,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,300.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Director jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Laboratory Director jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Director jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Director jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Laboratory Director jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Laboratory Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Director job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,544 per year, or $58 per hour.

Associate Laboratory Director, Physical Sciences Directorate

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$101K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Company Description
**To be formally considered, all applicants must apply via the ORNL Careers Page at http://www.ornl.gov/careers**
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the US Department of Energy's largest multi-program science and energy laboratory, with scientific and technical capabilities spanning the continuum from basic to applied research. Located in the city of Oak Ridge, ORNL is in the eastern part of Tennessee in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Job Description
PURPOSE:
The Associate Laboratory Director (ALD) for Physical Sciences supports the Laboratory Director in accomplishing Oak Ridge National Laboratory's (ORNL) mission by leading the Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD). The ALD oversees PSD's portfolio in fundamental and applied chemical and materials research integrating experimental, theoretical, and computational approaches for basic energy sciences programs and a variety of energy technologies, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, transportation, fossil energy, fusion energy, and nuclear energy. In addition, the ALD oversees research in nuclear physics, including low energy physics, relativistic heavy ions, theory, and fundamental symmetries of matter. The Directorate applies ORNL's distinctive science and technology capabilities to these mission areas, providing a unique R&D platform to customers that complements and extends the overall Laboratory mission. The ALD for PSD is also responsible for providing scientific leadership to build and integrate a focused research and development program portfolio for the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS), a Department of Energy / Office of Science Nanoscale Science Research Center (NSRC). Other responsibilities include implementation of management systems, operations, safety, security, compliance, and performance assessments across the entire Directorate, and serving on the Laboratory Leadership Team.
MAJOR DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Enhance world-leading scientific research programs in materials sciences, chemical sciences, nuclear physics and isotopes, as well as deliver high impact science with notable achievements.
• Strengthen science to energy integration at ORNL in areas relevant to materials and chemical processes, including leading electrical energy storage, polymers and composites, structural materials, separations and catalysis activities, among others.
• Manage DOE Basic Energy Sciences and Nuclear Physics programs with distinction by 1) ensuring high impact publications and successful reviews in all program areas, including effective oversight of the management and operations of two Energy Frontier Research Centers, 2) managing Nuclear Physics construction projects effectively, and 3) managing isotope production and support National Isotope Development Center (NIDC).
• Ensure growth of world-leading nanoscience research capabilities and a vibrant user program at the CNMS.
• Provide leadership in the integration of materials and chemical sciences capabilities across ORNL to promote laboratory-wide growth, including energy sciences and technology, life sciences, computational sciences, neutron sciences, and national security.
• Provide leadership for the R&D Work Control Management System.
• Integrate and implement commercialization activities through the Directorate's business plan and strategies.
• Implement management systems, operations, safety, compliance, and performance assessments across the entire Directorate, and serving on the Laboratory Leadership Team.
• Work with Laboratory Director and Leadership Team to identify and implement strategic research opportunities, including LDRD (Laboratory-Directed Research and Development) priorities.
• Manage programmatic funds and discretionary investments for research and program development, and act as steward for laboratory operations, facilities, capital, and equipment.
• Maintain compliance with Laboratory policies, standards, and procedures as documented in SBMS and implement operational standards to meet the expectations of the Laboratory Agenda.
• Develop and manage self-assessment programs, assuring alignment with the Laboratory Critical Outcomes, the Laboratory Agenda, and other internal or DOE performance metrics.
• Act as the primary Directorate contact and represent the Directorate on Lab-Level committees, task forces, and working groups with a shared responsibility for the overall lab wide science and technology strategy.
• Identify staffing and other resource requirements and support recruiting initiatives in diversity, fellowships, and university relations.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
• Ph.D. in a technical field related to the research conducted in a large Division or Directorate, with 3-10 years of demonstrated executive management experience, including developing and leading large, complex and multidisciplinary research programs.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a DOE security clearance.
• An internationally recognized research stature in one of the disciplines within Physical Sciences and experience in managing large multi-disciplinary science programs.
• Experience communicating with key stakeholders, clients, program sponsors, and internal staff and regarded as a leading expert and visionary in the field of Physical Sciences.
• Demonstrated experience successfully developing, implementing, and executing scientific strategy with engagement from critical stakeholders.
Experience with the DOE Office of Science is preferred, especially Basic Energy Sciences or Nuclear Physics.
Special Requirements:
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.
Additional Information
OUR BENEFITS:
Excellence in performance of the Laboratory requires excellence in the performance of our employees. ORNL recognizes this by offering competitive pay and benefits programs designed to attract and retain people who share our commitment to excellence. The Lab offers a multitude of employee benefits, including flexible work hours and wellness programs to help you and your family achieve a happy, healthy lifestyle.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Life insurance
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and leave
  • Educational assistance
  • Flexible working hours
  • Employee wellness programs and onsite fitness centers
  • Relocation assistance
  • Much more

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.
**To be formally considered, all applicants must apply via the ORNL Careers Page at https://www.ornl.gov/ornl/careers**

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