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Research Lab Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Northwestern University

Research Lab Manager 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$56K - $73K/yr

At first this will include learning the day-to-day procedures of the lab, and eventually will include managing a growing team of research assistants. This will also involve assisting the Principal ...

Until

Lab Manager

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

About the Role We are seeking an organized, proactive, and highly reliable Lab Operations Manager ... Partner closely with research teams to anticipate operational needs and remove bottlenecks.

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Research Lab Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$33.4K

$64.9K

$89.6K

How much do research lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lab manager in Illinois is $64,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $77,500.00 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 Illinois?

The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Manager jobs in Illinois?

For Research Lab Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Lab Manager jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Manager jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Research Lab Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Research Lab Manager job openings:

Research Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,911 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Research Lab Manager 1

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$56K - $79K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Northwestern University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Apply for Job Job ID 54022
Location Evanston, Illinois
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Department: WCAS Earth Environ Planetary
Salary/Grade: EXS/6
Job Summary:

The Department of Earth, Environmental & Planetary Sciences (DEEPS) at Northwestern University is seeking a Department Lab Manager to provide essential and diverse organizational support for teaching and research on-campus and off-campus. The Department's Integrated Laboratories for Earth and Planetary Sciences (ILEPS) are the analytical foundation for a wide range of cutting-edge research in Earth and environmental sciences. We seek an organized and self-motivated candidate who is eager to support varied teaching and research activities and to learn new skills.

The Department Research Lab Manager is a full-time 100% position. This position includes some remote field site work. More information about the schedule will be discussed during the interview. The target hiring range for this position will be between $56,782 - $79,850 per year. The salary offered will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Specific Responsibilities:

As the department's centralized technical staff member:

  • Maintains operations of department labs and facilities
  • Organizes teaching materials and field trips/courses
  • Trains students in shared-facility lab methods
  • Partners with faculty to oversee safety and expedition logistics
  • Manages the department collections of field equipment and physical specimens (e.g., rocks, sediment, water).

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 6 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience required; OR

  • Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 4 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience.

  • Supervisory or project management experience required.

  • Valid US driving license with clean driving record. See NU Safe Driver Program. Ability to drive 8 passenger mini-van sized vehicles with students.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working in laboratories and field campaigns

  • Commitment to safety and inclusive learning environments

  • Competence with standard office software (e.g., MS Suite)

Benefits:

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.


Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

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