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Research Lab Manager Jobs in Princeton, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Head of AI Research

New York, NY · On-site

$400K - $700K/yr

This isn't another research lab building demos. Your work ships to production, powering research ... Build novel approaches to context management, knowledge representation, and retrieval that let ...

... management, supportive housing, supported employment, prevention and consultation, employee ... The ADN Lab conducts decision neuroscience research with clinical applications to addiction and ...

Program Manager, Research

New York, NY · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

The Program Manager-Research is responsible for overall lab and research management and operations, working to ensure the timely development of activities and execution of deliverables within the ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Lab Manager information

See Princeton, NJ salary details

$36.2K

$70.2K

$97K

How much do research lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lab manager in Princeton, NJ is $70,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $83,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Research Lab Manager jobs in Princeton, NJ?

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

What job categories do people searching Research Lab Manager jobs in Princeton, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Manager jobs in Princeton, NJ are:

What cities near Princeton, NJ are hiring for Research Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Princeton, NJ with the most Research Lab Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Lab Manager job openings in Princeton, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,219 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Lab Technician (3rd Shift)

Central Garden & Pet

Monroe Township, NJ • On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,845 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

  • 94%

    94% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 42 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Acting under the supervision of the manager, the Lab Tech will perform both routine and specialized sample preparation and analysis. The Lab Tech plays a crucial role in a laboratory setting to support scientists, engineers, and the R&D department in the development of new products, and testing of new ingredients and processes. This role involves assisting in testing, data collection and analysis, and general lab maintenance.

This position is being offered 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM, Sunday - Wednesday, with required training on 1st Shift. 
MEASURES OF SUCCESS:
  • Work with Lab Manager to ensure ongoing quality of raw materials and finished goods.
  • Perform day-to-day lab operations in a dog chew and treat production facility- including sample collection and testing, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining instruments within working specifications.
  • Perform sample analysis in a timely fashion, meeting any applicable analytical holding times and project due dates.
  • Keep accurate documentation on all sample data and analytical conditions under which analysis was performed.
  • Perform and document daily calibration checks and document routine equipment maintenance.
  • Maintaining records accurately, neatly, legibly, and completely to meet quality and regulatory requirements.
  • Work with the Health, Safety, and Environmental Manager to ensure the safe handling of laboratory waste disposal to meet necessary municipal, state, and federal guidelines.
  • Oversee inventory for lab supplies to ensure inventory levels of all supplies in response to the volume of samples throughout the week are maintained.
  • Able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

IDEAL CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES:
  • 1+ years’ experience in an analytical/QC lab role, preferably in a production environment.
  • BS in Chemistry or other science with any scientific industry experience.
  • Proficient in basic lab techniques like following protocols and good manufacturing practices, pipetting, etc. 
  • Able to meet the requirements of a dynamic production environment.
  • Able to manage and plan time to be efficient in completing tasks.
  • Super organizational and project planning skills.
  • Proficient in Word and Excel. Strong Excel and MS Office skills are a plus.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication. Must be able to write, read, and speak English. (Bilingual a plus).

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS:
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • Free Life and Disability Insurance.
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
  • 401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution.
  • Paid vacation, holidays and sick time.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Access to thousands of free online courses.
  • Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
  • Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications).
  • Referral Program with cash bonus.
  • Access to on-demand pay.
  • Paid parental leave.

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2022 net sales of $3.3 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the Pet and Garden industries. The Company’s innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro, Aqueon, Cadet, Farnam, Ferry~Morse, Four Paws, Kaytee, K&H, Nylabone and Pennington, strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central Garden & Pet is based in Walnut Creek, California and has over 7,000 employees across North America and Europe. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.


What Central Garden & Pet employees say

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