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Laboratory Director Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Also provides assistance to Sample Control Manager, Staff Scientists, and Laboratory Director in a variety of laboratory and administrative functions. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Processing ...

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Provide general or direct supervision of laboratory and clerical personnel in the absence of designated laboratory leadership. * Complete continuing education and professional training necessary to ...

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Laboratory Director information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$49.2K

$137.9K

$203.4K

How much do laboratory director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory director in Santa Rosa, CA is $137,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,900.00 and $151,400.00 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 Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Director jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Laboratory Director jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Laboratory Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Director job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,854 per year, or $66.3 per hour.

Senior Director, Clinical Laboratory Services

Career Match Pro

Sonoma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Lead Laboratory Transformation Across a Regional Healthcare System

Are you an accomplished laboratory executive ready to shape the future of clinical laboratory services? This is an opportunity to provide strategic leadership across multiple hospitals, drive operational excellence, and influence the evolution of laboratory care within a nationally recognized healthcare organization.

The Senior Director, Clinical Laboratory Services will oversee regional laboratory operations, partnering with executive leaders, physicians, and clinical teams to improve quality, enhance efficiency, advance innovation, and ensure laboratory services are positioned for long-term success.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This executive leadership role offers the opportunity to:

  • Lead laboratory strategy across a multi-hospital healthcare network
  • Influence system-wide transformation and innovation initiatives
  • Partner directly with senior executives and physician leaders
  • Drive improvements in quality, service, affordability, and patient outcomes
  • Shape the future of laboratory operations through data-driven decision-making
  • Lead teams through meaningful change in a complex healthcare environment

What You'll Do

As the Senior Director of Clinical Laboratory Services, you will:

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for multiple hospital laboratories
  • Develop and implement short- and long-term laboratory business strategies
  • Oversee financial performance, budgets, capital planning, and operational goals
  • Lead process improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, and patient experience
  • Partner with physicians and clinical leaders to optimize laboratory services
  • Drive standardization, innovation, and best practices across laboratory operations
  • Ensure regulatory compliance and readiness within a highly regulated healthcare environment
  • Develop and mentor laboratory leaders while building a culture of excellence

What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's degree required; preferably in Laboratory Science or related field
  • Master's degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Health, or related field preferred
  • California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License required upon hire
  • 10+ years of progressive laboratory leadership experience
  • Proven success managing complex operations with financial accountability
  • Experience leading within a large healthcare system, integrated delivery network, or commercial laboratory environment
  • Strong understanding of regulatory requirements, quality improvement, and healthcare operations
  • Demonstrated ability to lead change, influence stakeholders, and achieve measurable results

Why Join?

  • Executive-level opportunity with significant regional impact
  • Lead a highly skilled laboratory workforce across multiple facilities
  • Work alongside respected healthcare leaders committed to innovation and excellence
  • Join an organization focused on improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes
  • Build the future of laboratory services through collaboration and strategic vision

Live and Thrive

Located just north of San Francisco, this opportunity offers the chance to enjoy the best of Northern California living. Nestled in the heart of wine country, the region combines natural beauty, a thriving community, and an exceptional quality of life.

Enjoy:

  • World-renowned wineries, farm-to-table dining, and vibrant local culture
  • Easy access to redwood forests, rivers, beaches, and outdoor adventures
  • Charming neighborhoods with a strong sense of community
  • Excellent schools and family-friendly communities
  • A Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, comfortable summers
  • Convenient access to San Francisco, the Pacific Coast, and nearby destinations

Relocation and annual bonus plus incredible benefits! Email us to learn more randerson@careermatchpro.com