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Microbiology Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Microbiology Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$41.9K

$95.5K

$145.1K

How much do microbiology lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbiology lab manager in California is $95,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a microbiology lab manager do?

A Microbiology Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a microbiology laboratory, ensuring that all testing and research activities adhere to safety protocols and quality standards. They supervise laboratory staff, manage resources and equipment, and are responsible for maintaining accurate records and reports. Additionally, Microbiology Lab Managers often develop and implement laboratory procedures, train new personnel, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Their role is essential in facilitating efficient lab operations and supporting scientific discoveries or diagnostic testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microbiology lab manager?

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Manager, you need a strong background in microbiology, laboratory management, and quality assurance, typically supported by a relevant science degree and several years of lab experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), aseptic techniques, and certifications such as ASCP or similar are commonly expected. Strong leadership, organization, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in managing teams and ensuring compliance. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining laboratory accuracy, safety, and efficiency in delivering reliable scientific results.

What are some common challenges faced by a microbiology lab manager, and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing a diverse team of laboratory personnel. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on supervision can be demanding, especially when coordinating multiple projects simultaneously. Effective communication, ongoing staff training, and staying current with industry regulations are essential strategies to address these challenges and ensure smooth laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Manager vs Microbiologist?

AspectMicrobiology Lab ManagerMicrobiologist
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Microbiology or related field; often managerial certificationsBachelor’s or higher in Microbiology or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, overseeing lab operations and staffConducting experiments, research, and analysis in labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, healthcare, biotech companiesResearch labs, healthcare, academia, industry

The Microbiology Lab Manager primarily oversees lab operations, staff, and compliance, requiring managerial skills and certifications. In contrast, the Microbiologist focuses on conducting experiments and research. Both roles are essential in microbiology settings but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Microbiology Lab jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in California?

For Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Microbiology Lab Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Microbiology Lab Manager job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in CA?

For Microbiology Lab Manager jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,516 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Sr. Clinical Lab Scientist Spec - Microbiology Lab - 140267

University of California San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$61.77 - $81.41/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Payroll Title:
CLIN LAB SCI SPEC SR Department:
MICROBIOLOGY LAB Hiring Pay Scale
$61.77 - $81.41 / Hour Worksite:
La Jolla Appointment Type:
Career Appointment Percent:
100% Union:
HX Contract Total Openings:
1 Work Schedule:
Days, 8-Hour Shifts, Sunday-Saturday
#140267 Sr. Clinical Lab Scientist Spec - Microbiology Lab
Extended Deadline: Mon 9/14/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 06/30/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.
Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.
DESCRIPTION
Under general supervision, performs waived, moderate, and high-complexity testing; evaluates test results; and conducts quality control procedures, preventive maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and validation of new methods or instruments.
Performs the full range of laboratory duties, including all pre-analytical processes such as sample processing and preparation, receiving and accessioning samples, reagent preparation, and testing through data analysis and reporting.
Oversees quality control and quality assurance activities in the specialty area, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. This includes equipment oversight, procedure review and revisions, proficiency testing, and staff competency assessments.
Assists in developing new methodologies or evaluating alternative test platforms, serves as a team leader on projects, and prepares or edits summary data reports. Provides laboratory services in a timely manner while consistently delivering excellent customer service. Serves as a technical resource for customers and other staff and may act as a lead. Adheres to all safety policies.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license.
  • Must have at least five (5) years of applicable clinical laboratory experience.
  • Experience with BSl-3 organisms and working conditions required.
  • Recent Molecular Microbiology experience required.
  • Have excellent communication skills with the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
  • Have excellent organizational/time management skills with the ability to balance multiple competing demands.
  • Possess the personal characteristics of professionalism, credibility, commitment to high standards, innovation, discriminating judgment and accountability.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • At least 3 years of experience working in a microbiology lab setting.
  • Prior experience with mycobacteria, mycology, and molecular microbiology in a clinical lab setting.
  • Familiar with CAP checklists and requirements
  • Experience with CAP preparations and inspections
  • Experience with leading teams, self-reliance, and working well independently.
  • Experience with QC and Statistical Analysis
  • Experience with Validation of New Laboratory Methods
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
*Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.*Employment is subject to a criminal background check and a pre-employment physical.
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $135,428 - $178,482 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $64.86 - $85.48
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements. If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.
UC San Diego Health is the only academic health system in the San Diego region, providing leading-edge care in patient care, biomedical research, education, and community service. Our facilities include two university hospitals, a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Shiley Eye Institute, Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center, the only Burn Center in the county, and dozens of outpatient clinics. We invite you to join our team!
Applications/Resumes are accepted for current job openings only. For full consideration on any job, applications must be received prior to the initial closing date. If a job has an extended deadline, applications/resumes will be considered during the extension period; however, a job may be filled before the extended date is reached.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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