1

Laboratory Operations Manager Jobs in California

Manages the day-to-day operations, ensuring services are provided in a cost-effective, safe, timely, and compliant manner in accordance with the approved budget and the contractual obligations ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Laboratory Operations Manager information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$62.6K

$116.9K

How much do laboratory operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory operations manager in California is $62,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Laboratory Operations Manager vs Laboratory Supervisor?

AspectLaboratory Operations ManagerLaboratory Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor’s degree in science or related field; certifications may be preferredAssociate’s or Bachelor’s degree; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple labs or departments, strategic planningSupervises daily lab activities, direct team oversight
ResponsibilitiesManaging operations, budgets, compliance, staff managementSupervising technicians, ensuring quality control, daily task management

The Laboratory Operations Manager focuses on overall lab management, strategic planning, and compliance, while the Laboratory Supervisor handles daily supervision of lab staff and operational tasks. Both roles require relevant science credentials, but the manager role involves broader responsibilities and higher-level decision-making.

What does a laboratory operations manager do?

A Laboratory Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory, ensuring that all processes run efficiently and safely. They are responsible for managing staff, maintaining compliance with regulations, overseeing budgets, and ensuring quality control. Their role also involves coordinating with other departments, implementing new procedures, and troubleshooting operational issues to keep laboratory activities on track.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Operations Manager, you need a solid background in laboratory science, management experience, and typically a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), quality assurance protocols, and regulatory compliance certifications like CLIA or CAP accreditation is crucial. Strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills, along with effective communication, set top performers apart. These competencies ensure efficient laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, and high-quality results critical to scientific and healthcare outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory operations managers, and how can they be addressed?

Laboratory Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with safety and regulatory standards, managing diverse teams, and optimizing workflow efficiency. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on problem-solving and ensuring all staff are properly trained on protocols are also common issues. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing staff training, implementing robust quality management systems, and fostering clear communication between team members and other departments. Proactively staying updated on industry regulations and creating a culture of safety and collaboration can greatly help in overcoming these operational hurdles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Operations jobs in California? The most popular types of Laboratory Operations jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in California? For Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Operations Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Operations Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Laboratory Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Operations Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,625 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Laboratory Operations Manager - Bay Area

KA Recruiting Inc.

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Apply for this opportunity as a Clinical Laboratory Manager with a top facility in San Mateo, California for permanent/direct hire.

The Lab Operations Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the Laboratory, including Infectious Disease TestingProduct Quality Control (QC), and Operations Support. The role involves both administrative and technical leadership, ensuring regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, staff management, and high-quality lab services.


Key Responsibilities: 1. Laboratory Operations:
  • Manage three key areas: infectious disease testing, product QC, and support operations.

  • Oversee equipment maintenance, testing procedures, supply management, and regulatory compliance.

  • Lead process improvements, SOP updates, and implementation of new technologies.

2. Staff & Team Management:
  • Supervise 2 supervisors and their teams of licensed/unlicensed lab staff.

  • Handle hiring, training, performance evaluation, and scheduling.

  • Develop staff through delegation, coaching, and competency assessments.

3. Business & Customer Management:
  • Ensure external testing services meet turnaround time (TAT), quality, and customer satisfaction goals.

  • Manage logistics, inventory, and communication with external clients.

4. Strategic & Financial Planning:
  • Participate in long-term planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.

  • Make decisions on capital purchases and department expenditures.

5. Policy & Compliance:
  • Ensure adherence to regulatory and internal policies.

  • Maintain accurate documentation and SOPs.

  • Promote safety, privacy, and service excellence.

To apply - email a resume directly to marissak@ka-recruiting.com for immediate consideration.

(Ref Code: MK9252)