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Research Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The primary function of the lab manager is to ensure the research lab adhere's to Stanford research policies and procedures which include - health and safety protocols, chemical inventory, animal ...

The Lab Manager is responsible for leading the R&D laboratory, formulation development activities, and execution of product innovation initiatives for ZO Skin Health. This role oversees a team of ...

The primary function of the lab manager is to ensure the research lab adhere's to Stanford research policies and procedures which include - health and safety protocols, chemical inventory, animal ...

The Lab Manager is responsible for leading the R&D laboratory, formulation development activities, and execution of product innovation initiatives for ZO Skin Health. This role oversees a team of ...

Bring the rigor of a professional analytical chemistry lab to our R&D facility. Our machine ... Manage procurement for all lab consumables, reagents, specialty gases, and calibration standards ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$34K

$66.1K

$91.3K

How much do research lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lab manager in California is $66,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do research lab managers make in the US?

Research lab managers in the US typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and the size of the institution. Those with advanced degrees or specialized skills in laboratory management or scientific research tend to earn higher salaries.

Is a research lab manager a stressful job?

A research lab manager often faces stress related to managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and ensuring safety and compliance. The role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to handle unexpected issues, which can contribute to a high-stress environment at times.

What are the responsibilities of a research lab manager?

A Research Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a scientific laboratory, ensuring that research activities run smoothly and efficiently. Their responsibilities typically include managing laboratory staff, maintaining equipment and supplies, enforcing safety protocols, and assisting with budgeting and administrative tasks. They also support researchers by coordinating experiments, managing data, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential in this role.

What is a research lab manager?

A research lab manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory, including managing staff, maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols, and coordinating research activities. They often require strong organizational skills, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and experience with project management tools.

What is the difference between Research Lab Manager vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Lab ManagerResearch Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; often requires management experienceMaster's or Ph.D. in specific research area
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, administrative offices, overseeing operationsLaboratories, conducting experiments, data analysis
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, universities, biotech companiesResearch institutions, universities, industry R&D
Primary FocusManaging lab operations, budgets, staffDesigning experiments, conducting research, publishing findings

The main difference is that a Research Lab Manager focuses on overseeing lab operations, staff, and budgets, while a Research Scientist concentrates on conducting experiments and advancing scientific knowledge. Both roles are essential in research settings but serve different functions within the research process.

What are some common challenges a research lab manager faces and how can they be addressed?

Research Lab Managers often encounter challenges related to balancing administrative duties with supporting scientific research, maintaining compliance with safety regulations, and ensuring efficient use of resources. Navigating these requires strong organizational skills, clear communication with both researchers and administrative staff, and staying up to date with regulatory changes. Proactively scheduling regular team meetings, investing in ongoing training, and implementing standard operating procedures can help address these challenges and create a productive, compliant lab environment.

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

To thrive as a Research Lab Manager, you need strong scientific expertise, leadership skills, and a relevant degree in the field (often a Master's or PhD). Experience with laboratory management systems, safety protocols, grant writing, and equipment maintenance is crucial, along with certifications such as CLIA or GLP compliance when applicable. Excellent organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help foster teamwork and ensure smooth lab operations. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining high research standards, ensuring safety, and achieving project goals efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Manager jobs in California? For Research Lab Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Lab Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Lab Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,108 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Research Lab Technician II

Keck Medicine of USC

Los Angeles, CA

$24.50 - $26.55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Keck Medicine of USC rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

342nd of 1,055 rated hospitals


Job description

The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Southern California (USC Norris) was founded in 1971 and has been continuously funded as an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center since 1973. USC Norris has a rich tradition of collaborative research and serves as a major regional and national resource for cancer research, prevention, treatment and education.

The Flow Cytometry and Immune Monitoring Core (FCIM) at the USC Norris is seeking a self-motivated Research Lab Technician II to support clinical and laboratory research efforts at the Cancer Center. The successful candidate should have: 1) at least 1 year hands-on experienced in basic or clinical research, particularly isolation of primary cells; 2) team-oriented research experience; and 3) excellent oral and written communication skills and work well with people.

Job Accountabilities

Under the supervision of the Technical Director, the Research Lab Technician II will provide routine and specific laboratory support for Immune Monitoring and Flow Cytometry services. The responsibilities include (but are not limited) to:

  • Learn new technologies quickly, such as blood processing and cell isolation.
  • Prepare, operate and maintain equipment.
  • Manage inventory of specimens.
  • Process and store human specimens (e.g. blood, solid tumors, urine and stool).
  • Order and maintain laboratory materials and supplies.
  • Prepare technical reports, papers and presentations.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Education: Bachelor's Degree in life science

Preferred Experience: at least 2 year hands-on research experience in basic or clinical research, particularly isolation and culturing human PBMC from blood samples.

Supervises - Nature of Work

Preferred Field of Expertise: blood processing and isolation of human primary cells

Special Instructions to Applicants

Complete the Workday application

The hourly rate range for this position is $24.50 - $26.55. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational consideration.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience
Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written

USC 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, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$150762.htmld

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