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Research Lab Manager information

See Wheat Ridge, CO salary details

$36.7K

$71.2K

$98.3K

How much do research lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lab manager in Wheat Ridge, CO is $71,187.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $85,000.00 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 cities near Wheat Ridge, CO are hiring for Research Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Wheat Ridge, CO with the most Research Lab Manager job openings:

Research Lab Manager jobs near you

Lab Manager, R&D/Process Development

Watchmaker Genomics

Boulder, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position: Lab Manager, R&D/Process Development
Position Type: Full-time, permanent
Department: Facilities/R&D
Location: Boulder, Colorado (onsite)
Experience: Bachelor's degree and 5 years of experience
Position Summary
Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Lab Manager, R&D/Process Development, reporting to the Facilities Manager.
This individual would operate within the R&D organization while maintaining close alignment with Facilities. The Facilities Manager would continue to provide strategic oversight and support, while day-to-day laboratory operations would be owned and managed by the Lab Manager, R&D/Process Development.The Lab Manager, R&D/Process Development would serve as the primary owner of laboratory operations within R&D and Process Development spaces.
Responsibilities
Laboratory Operations
  • Manage day-to-day R&D and PD laboratory operations
  • Coordinate laboratory organization and workspace management
  • Support ad hoc laboratory and equipment needs for R&D and PD teams
  • Approve standard level purchase orders within company's ERP system

Equipment Management
  • Manage R&D and PD equipment inventory within the CMMS system
  • Coordinate preventative maintenance and calibration schedules
  • Schedule and manage external service providers
  • Perform select equipment maintenance activities in-house when appropriate (autoclaves, sequencers, and other instrumentation)
  • Support troubleshooting and service coordination for laboratory equipment

Consumables & Supply Management
  • Manage laboratory consumables and supplies, utilizing Kanban where applicable
  • Coordinate inventory levels and ordering
  • Act as requisitioner and first tier approver for R&D and PD groups
  • Support distribution and organization of laboratory materials

Freezer & Cold Storage Oversight
  • Manage freezer organization and storage standards
  • Coordinate preventative maintenance and defrost schedules, and assist with defrost activities
  • Monitor freezer performance
  • Assist with freezer alarm response and escalation processes

Safety & Compliance
  • Oversee R&D laboratory chemical inventory management
  • Support R&D laboratory EHS initiatives and compliance activities
  • Ensure laboratories maintain safe and organized operating conditions

Budgeting & Capital Planning
  • Support R&D and PD CapEx planning and requests
  • Assist with equipment evaluations, procurement, and implementation
  • Support budgeting activities related to laboratory operations and equipment

Please note: The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and other similar duties may be required from time to time.
Skills and Requirements
The candidate should have a Bachelor's degree and 5 years experience. Experience in biotech and a start-up environment are highly desirable.
The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • The ability to multitask, be able to work at a high standard, perform consistently under pressure along with pre-determined deadlines and work without supervision.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to work as an effective member of a team.
  • Good communication and personal task management skills and a high level of self-motivation and initiative.
  • A creative and disciplined approach to problem-solving.
  • Time management and prioritization under deadlines
  • High level of accuracy in documentation, record-keeping, and reporting.
  • Previous experience with a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) is desirable
  • Experience with the Google Office suite of tools is desirable
  • Familiarity of standard laboratory equipment and consumables is desirable

Education and Experience
  • Bachelors degree
  • 5 years experience

Compensation
The base compensation for the Lab Manager, R&D/Process Development starts at $85,000 - $95,000 + bonus + equity; actual pay will be adjusted based on skills and experience. Employees are eligible for Flexible Time Off, Holidays, employer covers 75% of base medical plan with buy-up options, EAP (employee assistance program), employer paid dental with a buy-up option, employer paid vision, employer paid $25,000 life/AD&D policy, paid parental leave, and a 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% match.
Application Requirements
To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com:
  • Letter of motivation (upload where it says cover letter)
  • Resume or Curriculum vitae, highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Local candidates preferred.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled; however, early submission is encouraged as review will begin immediately.
If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested.
*** NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE
We are only accepting direct applications for this position. We are not working with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters will not be considered and will be deemed the property of Watchmaker Genomics.
*** WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.
All applicants will be asked if currently eligible to work in the United States of America; and if now or in the future will require visa sponsorship to continue working in the United States.
This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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