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Research Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

In the R&D lab, you design test equipment for prototypes of our machinery and develop the protocols ... Manage and drive lab expenses for supplies, equipment, and capital expenditures and enforce lab ...

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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.

Lab Operations Manager- Translational Medicine

Genentech, Inc.

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$100K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Genentech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

We advance science so that we all have more time with the people we love.
A healthier future. It's what drives us to innovate. To continuously advance science and ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need today and for generations to come. Creating a world where we all have more time with the people we love. That's what makes us Genentech!
The Opportunity:
We are looking for a motivated, reliable, and resilient lab manager responsible for purchasing, vendor management, lab upkeep, equipment maintenance, EH&S compliance, space planning, and project management. The overarching goal is to ensure smooth operations, business continuity, and efficient management of lab infrastructure to enable our science. The individual is also expected to be highly strategic and propose improvements for overall operations.
As an integral member of our dynamic team, your responsibilities will include:
  • Lab Operations & Staff Management: Manage general laboratory operations, cleanliness, and safety. Direct laboratory support staff, oversee Lab Services groups, and evaluate employees to ensure efficient operations.
  • Lab Operations & Staff Management: Manage general laboratory operations, cleanliness, and safety. Direct laboratory support staff, oversee Lab Services groups, and evaluate employees to ensure efficient operations.
  • Inventory & Procurement: Implement a laboratory inventory system, anticipate supply needs, and track orders. Coordinate daily consumable stocking, participate in vendor negotiations, and provide technical input to purchasing.
  • Equipment Lifecycle Management: Ensure optimal utilization and operation of all laboratory equipment. Manage purchasing, installations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs while acting as the point of contact for service providers. Establish service contracts and train staff on general instrumentation.
  • EH&S & Compliance: Ensure lab compliance with EH&S policies, conduct safety checks, and train members on safety practices. Act as a liaison with employee health and safety for facility modifications and assist with new hire onboarding.
  • Business Operations & Space Planning: Manage space planning, facilities needs, and support budgeting. Partner with laboratory business operations to facilitate communication between scientists and support functions (e.g., facilities, procurement, IT).
  • Operational Agility: Adapt to developing situations to minimize business disruptions in our research labs. Act as a strong advocate for the scientific community while applying problem-solving skills guided by policies.

Who You Are
The ideal applicant should have a solid foundation in laboratory operations, coupled with excellent project management, organizational, and leadership abilities.
  • Education/ Experience: BS or MS in biology, or a related discipline with 4 to 8 years of laboratory experience, including at least 4 years managing research lab operations. Broad knowledge of biotechnology laboratory operations and equipment.
  • Equipment Expertise: Experience in lab equipment lifecycle management, vendor service agreements, and customer service.
  • Leadership & Influence/Interpersonal Skills: Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to influence major projects and drive change in a large, complex company environment. with excellent teamwork, verbal, and written communication skills. A highly collaborative personality capable of building trusting relationships with scientific staff.
  • Work Environment Rigor: Comfort working in a fast-paced, diverse research environment. Must understand how research labs operate and be comfortable meeting researchers while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Technical Skills: Adept at standard Office software, learning new software, and maintaining highly organized records.
  • Physical Requirements: This role involves sitting and standing for extended periods, performing repetitive tasks, and managing potentially hazardous materials (e.g., chemotherapeutics, biological hazards, human primary cells).

Relocation benefits are not available for this posting.
The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California for Lab Service Manager is $100,700- $186,900 Annual. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.
Benefits
Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.
If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.

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About Genentech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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