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Science Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LAB MANAGER

Sebastopol, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

The Lab Manager is responsible for the technical and scientific oversight of the laboratory. The Lab Manager must be available to the lab on as needed basis to provide supervisor and/or to perform ...

Lab Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field * 5+ years in Lab Management or Facilities Management, preferably within the medical device, biotech, or similar industry.

LAB MANAGER

Sebastopol, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

The Lab Manager is responsible for the technical and scientific oversight of the laboratory. The Lab Manager must be available to the lab on as needed basis to provide supervisor and/or to perform ...

Foster dynamic relationships with scientists to better serve their needs in the lab. * Project manage various business or operations related initiatives. Employee Value Proposition : Career growth ...

You'll work closely with research scientists and lab staff to build and scale the operational systems that support both in vitro and in vivo neuroscience research. As Preclinical Lab Manager at Nudge ...

You'll work closely with research scientists and lab staff to build and scale the operational systems that support both in vitro and in vivo neuroscience research. As Preclinical Lab Manager at Nudge ...

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Science Lab Manager information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$90.8K

$147K

How much do science lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for science lab manager in California is $90,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Science Lab Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Science Lab Manager, you need a strong background in laboratory sciences, leadership experience, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with lab management software, safety protocols, inventory systems, and regulatory compliance certifications is essential. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating teams and ensuring a safe, efficient environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining high laboratory standards, supporting research goals, and ensuring safety and compliance.

What does a Science Lab Manager do?

A Science Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory, ensuring that it runs efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities include managing lab staff, maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, implementing safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with regulations. They may also assist with budgeting, training new staff, and supporting research activities. Science Lab Managers play a crucial role in enabling scientific research and education by keeping the lab organized and functional.

What is the difference between Science Lab Manager vs Science Technician?

AspectScience Lab ManagerScience Technician
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in science, management experienceAssociate’s or Bachelor’s degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees lab operations, manages staff, ensures safetyPerforms experiments, maintains equipment, supports research
Employer & Industry UsageResearch labs, educational institutions, biotech companiesLaboratories, research facilities, educational settings

The Science Lab Manager primarily oversees lab operations, staff, and safety protocols, requiring management skills and relevant degrees. In contrast, the Science Technician focuses on conducting experiments, maintaining equipment, and supporting research activities. Both roles are essential in scientific environments but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by Science Lab Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Science Lab Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with hands-on lab supervision, maintaining compliance with safety regulations, and managing inventory within budget constraints. To address these, effective time management, regular communication with staff, and thorough documentation of protocols are essential. Building strong relationships with vendors and fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the team can also help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth lab operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Science Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Science Lab jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Science Lab Manager job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,756 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Upper School Science Lab Technician

St Margaret of Scotland Episcopal

San Juan Capistrano, CA • On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Upper School Science Lab Technician supports the instructional program of the Science Department by preparing laboratory materials, maintaining equipment and inventory, and assisting teaching faculty and students during laboratory activities. This position plays a key role in ensuring that science instruction is delivered in a safe, organized, and effective laboratory environment. The Lab Technician also contributes to the overall student learning experience by supporting hands-on, inquiry-based instruction and may assist in instructional delivery under the guidance of teaching faculty and the Science Department Chair.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:Laboratory Preparation and Support
  • Prepare laboratory materials, solutions, equipment, and demonstrations for science classes, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • Set up and break down laboratory experiments in a timely and organized manner.
  • Ensure all lab materials and equipment are clean, functional, and properly stored.
  • Support safe laboratory practices and ensure compliance with all safety protocols and procedures.
  • Inventory and Equipment Management
  • Maintain and manage an accurate inventory of laboratory equipment, materials, and supplies.
  • Monitor usage levels and coordinate ordering of supplies in collaboration with the Science Department.
  • Organize and maintain lab storage areas to ensure efficiency and accessibility.
  • Assist with maintenance and care of scientific equipment.
  • Instructional Support
  • Serve as a teaching assistant in laboratory classes, supporting student learning during handson activities.
  • Assist teachers with instructional preparation, including organizing materials and supporting demonstrations.
  • Support grading or assessment tasks as directed by teacher.
  • Under the supervision of the Science Department Chair and classroom teachers, may provide limited instructional support or lead sections of a class when appropriate.
  • Operational and Department Support
  • Collaborate with science teaching faculty to anticipate instructional needs and support curriculum delivery.
  • Assist with preparation for special projects, demonstrations, and departmental initiatives.
  • Support outdoor or environmental science activities as needed.
  • Serve as a gradelevel advisor or SEA Term (St. Margaret’s Exploration Academy experiential education) instructor, supporting the academic and socialemotional needs of students.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory and prep environment.
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned.
  • QUALIFICATIONS:Required
  • Bachelor’s degree in a sciencerelated field or equivalent experience.
  • Basic knowledge of high school science disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and anticipate the needs of teaching faculty and the department.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries in a school environment.
  • Preferred
  • Coursework or experience in chemistry and laboratory preparation.
  • Experience working in a school, laboratory, or educational setting.
  • Experience supporting handson or inquirybased learning environments.
  • COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
  • Hourly Range: $27.00 $32.00
  • Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Short and LongTerm Disability, and Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off: 10 Faculty Wellness Days
  • Retirement: 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contribution
  • Additional: Tuition Remission, Salary Continuance Plan, Wee Tartan Childcare Center (upon availability)
  • PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENT:

    The Upper School Science Lab Technician works in both classroom and laboratory environments requiring frequent standing, walking, bending, and use of hands to handle equipment and materials. This may involve lifting and transporting supplies and equipment up to 25 pounds. The position requires working with standard laboratory materials and equipment and occasional support of outdoor instructional activities. The work environment may vary from quiet preparation spaces to active classroom settings with moderate noise levels.

    St. Margaret's Episcopal School is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on gender, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national and ethnic origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.