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Research Lab Manager Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Alyssa Evans alyssa.evans4@montana.edu 406-994-5395 Classification Title Research Professional Working Title Lab Manager Brief Position Overview The Evans Lab in the Department of Microbiology and ...

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Lab Tech

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The Lab Technician, under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, performs work involving the ... Performs laboratory research/tasks. * Records observations, measurements, and reports results.

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Lab Tech

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The Lab Technician, under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, performs work involving the ... Performs laboratory research/tasks. * Records observations, measurements, and reports results.

Lab Technician

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Poste The Lab Technician, under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, performs work involving ... Performs laboratory research/tasks. * Records observations, measurements, and reports results.

Lab Analyst II

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$19.59 - $24.52/hr

Job Summary The Lab Analyst II (R&D Department) is a mid-level position responsible for providing ... Monitor and manage inventory levels of laboratory supplies and reagents, assisting with procurement ...

Quality System Manager

Missoula, MT · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Partner with the Senior Director, Lab Operations to translate scientific, clinical, and client ... Help establish controlled R&D/NPD-to-production handoffs. Routine production ownership is not ...

Quality System Manager

Missoula, MT · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Partner with the Senior Director, Lab Operations to translate scientific, clinical, and client ... Help establish controlled R&D/NPD-to-production handoffs. Routine production ownership is not ...

Quality System Manager

Missoula, MT · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Partner with the Senior Director, Lab Operations to translate scientific, clinical, and client ... Help establish controlled R&D/NPD‑to‑production handoffs. Routine production ownership is not ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Lab Manager information

See Montana salary details

$31.7K

$61.5K

$84.9K

How much do research lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lab manager in Montana is $61,482.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $73,400.00 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 Montana?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Research Lab Manager job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,482 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Announcement Number
STAFF - VA - 27080
For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Alyssa Evans
alyssa.evans4@montana.edu
406-994-5395
Classification Title
Research Professional
Working Title
Lab Manager
Brief Position Overview
The Evans Lab in the Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Lab Manager to conduct research activities and oversee lab functions.
Position Number
4C0449
Department
Microbiology & Cell Biology
Division
College of Agriculture/MAES
Appointment Type
Professional
Contract Term
Fiscal Year
Semester
If other, specify From date
If other, specify End date
FLSA
Exempt
Union Affiliation
Exempt from Collective Bargaining
FTE
1.0
Benefits Eligible
Eligible
Salary
Salary commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications.
Contract Type
LOA
If other, please specify
Recruitment Type
Open
Position Details
General Statement
The Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology (MCB) in the College of Agriculture is the home of strong research programs in bacteriology, virology, molecular biology, immunology, and environmental microbiology. Pathogen research is supported by BSL2 and BSL3 research infrastructure, including small and large animal BSL2 facilities. The Evans Lab focuses on the neuropathogenesis of BSL2 orthobunyaviruses that can cause severe neurological disease in humans. The Evans lab combines molecular biology, virology, genetics, immunology, mouse models, and human cell models to study the virus and virus-host interactions that mediate orthobunyavirus neurological disease.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conduct research and experimentation related to the lab's goals, including but not limited to, cloning, cell culture, work with mouse models, immunohistochemistry, protein analysis, RNA analysis, and sequence analysis.
  • Manage and document lab materials, lab safety protocols, inventories, etc. Ensure lab facilities are in compliance with lab safety regulations.
  • Oversee the maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment.
  • Order and restock materials necessary for research activities.
  • Train and oversee new lab members and students in laboratory techniques, experimentation, and safety.
  • In addition to these tasks, the successful applicant is expected to refine, implement, and/or develop protocols and techniques related to the research as needed.

Required Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. A minimum of a Master's Degree in a science field is required.
  2. Prior research-based laboratory experience required, preferentially in molecular biology or microbiology techniques including cloning, cell culture, protein analysis, and/or RNA analysis.
  3. Excellent time management, organizational and record-keeping skills.
  4. The successful applicant should demonstrate the ability to implement molecular biology and microbiology protocols, and to work independently to meet deadlines with little supervision.

Preferred Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. BSL2 experience.
  2. Experience working with small animal models.
  3. Excellent communication skills, including oral and written science communication.
  4. Prior lab management experience.

The Successful Candidate Will
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
This position has supervisory duties?
Yes
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on September 17, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran's preference, please complete the veteran's preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

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