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Research Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Manager

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Description As Lab Manager, you'll wear two hats: you'll lead and develop a team of lab technicians ... Experience in a hardware development or R&D environment (consumer electronics preferred)

New

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 ...

Lab Manager

Cupertino, CA

$183K - $319K/yr

We're looking for a Lab Manager to help us maintain a world-class engineering lab environment where ... R&D environment (consumer electronics preferred) Demonstrated ability to switch fluidly between ...

Primary Function of Position The R&D Engineering Lab Manager is responsible for managing the labs spaces for the Ion I&A NPD organization, which is used for the development, evaluation, and ...

Primary Function of Position The R&D Engineering Lab Manager is responsible for managing the labs spaces for the Ion I&A NPD organization, which is used for the development, evaluation, and ...

... lab focused on search, training models that can retrieve and reason over any data source. They are seeking a Research Engineer to train models, design RL training environments, and manage the ...

Showing results 41-60

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 21, 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.

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 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 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 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.

How much do research lab managers make in the US?

Research lab managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and the size of the organization. Salaries can vary based on the industry, location, and specific responsibilities, with some positions offering additional benefits or bonuses.

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 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 scientific procedures, and experience with lab management tools or software.

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 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,108 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

$24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Type: Grant-Funded, Fixed-Term for 12 Months
Join the Team at USC: Where Innovation Meets Excellence
Are you passionate about research and looking to make a significant impact in the scientific community? The University of Southern California is seeking a dynamic and skilled Research Lab Technician II to join our cutting-edge research team. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of scientific discovery, providing essential laboratory support and contributing to groundbreaking research projects.
About USC Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology (CCMB): CCMB is a research laboratory located on the Health Sciences Campus of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. Part of the Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, CCMB is funded through numerous federal and organization-sponsored research grants. Many of these grants are from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, supporting basic research into the developmental, biochemical, and molecular biological aspects of human development, with a special emphasis on craniofacial structures in both health and disease. Working together, we are advancing oral, dental, and craniofacial research to solve problems in health and promote the well-being of society.
Why You'll Love Working Here:
• Innovative Environment: Work in a state-of-the-art lab that fosters creativity and innovation.
• Professional Growth: Access to ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to excellence and collaboration.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to research that makes a difference in the world.
Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct and support research experiments in compliance with established laboratory and safety protocols.
• Collect and analyze data from a variety of research procedures, tests, and techniques.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.
• Prepare chemical solutions for experimental use and handle materials according to safety guidelines.
• Organize laboratory supplies and manage inventory to support continuous research activities.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments and procedures.
• Assist in the planning and design of experiments through comprehensive library research.
• Uphold the security and safety of the research facility and its contents.
Who We're Looking For:
• Education: Minimum of an Associate's Degree or specialized/technical training. A Bachelor's Degree in a related field is preferred and can substitute for experience requirements.
• Experience: At least 2 years of relevant experience with laboratory equipment and research protocols.
• Skills: Proficiency in general laboratory techniques, data analysis, and equipment maintenance.
• Attributes: Detail-oriented, proactive, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Additional Perks:
• Supervisory Opportunities: Potential to oversee student, temporary, and/or casual workers.
• Equal Opportunity: We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Discover the power of your USC employment with our comprehensive benefits and perks package! At USC, we prioritize the well-being of our faculty and staff, offering a diverse range of benefits designed to protect your health, wealth, and future. From robust healthcare coverage to retirement planning resources, our benefits are an essential part of your total rewards package. Explore the full spectrum of benefits and perks available to you at USC Benefits and Perks(opens in new window) and unlock the true value of your USC employment today!
Join USC, Where Your Work Inspires Change
Equal Opportunity Employer: The University of Southern 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, or veteran status.
The hourly rate for this position is $24.25. 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 considerations.
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 the Background Screening Policy Appendix D(opens in new window)for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
Minimum Education: Associate's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 2 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.
Minimum Education: Associate's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 2 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.
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 the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for 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 at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
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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:
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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880