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Science Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coherent Corp.

Senior Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)

II-VI Incorporated

Senior Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)

Coherent

Senior Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, design, implement, and manage a customer-facing lab environment showcasing networking ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)

Amat

Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA

$158K - $218K/yr

If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation ... Lab Manager supporting SiC EPI systems, test stands and metrology tools. Works closely with product ...

Applied Materials

Lab Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$158K - $218K/yr

If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation ... Lab Manager supporting SiC EPI systems, test stands and metrology tools. Works closely with product ...

K2 Pure Solutions LP

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Enter test results into the laboratory information management system. Make accept or reject ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Science related field and a minimum of 1 year of lab work ...

K2 Pure Solutions

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... management system. • Make accept or reject decisions on finished product based on sample results ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Science related field and a minimum of 1 year of lab work ...

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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 7, 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:
Science Lab Manager jobs near you
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.

CLS - Lab Manager

MLee Medical Employment

Santa Rosa, CA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Lead the Future of Diagnostics in the Vineyards of Northern California
When you think of innovation in healthcare, a laboratory might not be the first place that comes to mind - but behind every accurate diagnosis, every successful treatment plan, and every critical care decision, there's a laboratory leader making it all possible.
This is your opportunity to bring your expertise in laboratory science, operations, and people leadership to a high-impact role near Santa Rosa, California - where cutting-edge diagnostics meet the heart of wine country.
As Laboratory Manager, you'll oversee the daily operations of a modern clinical lab and guide a dedicated team of scientists, technologists, and support professionals. You won't just keep things running - you'll drive excellence, ensure compliance, optimize workflows, and bring vision to everything from vendor management to performance improvement. This role offers both strategic oversight and hands-on collaboration with pathologists, technical supervisors, and executive leadership.
And when the workday ends? You'll be surrounded by rolling vineyards, redwood forests, artisan food culture, and ocean breezes - the kind of place where leadership isn't just about climbing, it's about flourishing.
What You'll Do
  • Manage the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, including administrative, technical, and fiscal functions
  • Supervise and coach clinical laboratory staff and technical supervisors; lead departmental meetings, 1:1s, and engagement planning
  • Oversee specimen collection, processing, and testing standards, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and regulatory compliance
  • Monitor quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) programs; submit plans and reports to support continual growth
  • Partner with pathologists and the Laboratory Medical Director to assess test protocols, draft SOPs, and align with clinical goals
  • Manage budgets, monthly variances, billing reviews, and vendor contracts (including instruments and reference labs)
  • Ensure lab meets CLIA, CAP, and state regulatory standards; lead initiatives related to staff competencies, method evaluation, and proficiency programs
  • Participate in systemwide committees, contribute to service expansion evaluations, and foster multi-disciplinary collaboration
What You'll Bring
Education & Credentials
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, or related field required
  • Master's degree in a healthcare or management discipline preferred
  • Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license required
Experience
  • Minimum 5 years of clinical laboratory experience
  • At least 2 years in a hospital laboratory setting in a supervisory or managerial role
Skills & Competencies
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and coaching abilities
  • High emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills
  • Deep knowledge of compliance frameworks (e.g., CLIA, CAP, TJC)
  • Proven ability to drive quality, efficiency, and operational improvements
  • Comfort navigating both the strategic and hands-on aspects of lab management
Benefits & Work Culture
  • Competitive compensation with opportunity for growth and leadership influence
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Employer-supported retirement savings programs
  • Paid time off, holidays, and work-life balance emphasis
  • Professional development funding and continuing education support
  • Collaborative and mission-driven team environment
  • High-quality instrumentation and vendor relationships to support excellence

A Region Where Science Meets Serenity
Nestled between the Pacific Coast and the Mayacamas Mountains, the area near Santa Rosa offers a lifestyle most only dream of. By day, you'll lead a critical piece of the healthcare system. By evening, you can unwind with a glass of world-class wine, hike through ancient redwood groves, or bike past golden vineyards.
This region is as rich in culture as it is in natural beauty - home to local farmers markets, artisan cheese trails, and an emerging tech and innovation scene. The downtown areas are charming yet cosmopolitan, offering theater, jazz clubs, and farm-to-table dining in equal measure.
For those raising families or looking for more space, the surrounding communities offer exceptional schools, low crime, and easy access to nature. And for the urban explorer, San Francisco is just a scenic drive away, making it easy to balance tranquility with adventure.
Whether you're drawn by the call of leadership or the pull of a more grounded lifestyle, this role lets you have both.
Lead with Purpose. Live with Balance.
If you're a licensed CLS with the heart of a leader, the eye of a scientist, and the vision of a builder - we invite you to explore this opportunity. Your work will shape diagnostics across the care continuum and build a legacy of excellence that will benefit thousands.
Apply now and bring your clinical leadership to a place where precision meets purpose - and where the air smells like lavender and possibility.

Apply