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Science Lab Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Intellectt INC

Lab Technician/Shipping

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

This role works closely with Scientists, Research Associates, and the Lab Manager, providing hands-on exposure to next-generation sequencing, cell engineering, antibody discovery, and single-cell ...

Eterna Management, LLC

Lab Manager (Irvine)

Irvine, CA

$75K - $100K/yr

... science behind the results. The laboratory has an established team and existing processes, with ... The Laboratory Operations Manager is expected to take full ownership of lab operations, proactively ...

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All JobsScience Lab Manager JobsScience Lab Manager Jobs in California

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 29, 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.

How much do Pfizer lab managers make?

Lab managers at Pfizer typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. They oversee laboratory operations, manage staff, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Is lab manager a stressful job?

A lab manager role can be stressful due to responsibilities such as overseeing safety protocols, managing staff, and ensuring experiments are completed accurately and on time. The level of stress varies depending on the size of the lab, workload, and deadlines, but strong organizational and communication skills help manage the pressure.

How much does a lab manager earn?

The average salary for a science lab manager varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Factors such as education, certifications, and the complexity of the laboratory environment can influence earnings.

What is the highest paid lab job?

The highest paid lab jobs are often senior research scientists, laboratory directors, or specialized roles such as clinical laboratory directors, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and management responsibilities in research, healthcare, or industrial laboratories.

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
CLIA Laboratory Manager - Anatomic Pathology

CLIA Laboratory Manager - Anatomic Pathology

Agilent

Carpinteria, CA • On-site

$160K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Agilent Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 521 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
Be a part of the future of Precision Medicine! Our mission is to improve the human condition by bringing the power of precision medicine to labs, partners and patients globally. In the Companion Diagnostics Business (CDx), our team partners very closely with leading biopharma companies to develop, manufacture and commercialize highly regulated medical devices which are critical for physicians to help select therapies for their patients.
The CLIA Lab Manager is responsible for a CLIA and CAP accredited and NYS permitted laboratory, residing in Carpinteria, California, performing Clinical-Trial retrospective and prospective testing services. This position is responsible for overseeing all laboratory operations, ensuring strict compliance with all state and federal CLIA regulations, managing personnel and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and reliable analytical test results. Additionally, the Lab Manager will support Business Development, presenting our Clinical-Trial services capabilities to both current and future customers for new business opportunities.
Must demonstrate ability to work independently, exercise good judgement, work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team with minimal direction, and to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Effective verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail and excellent problem-solving skills with demonstrated leadership ability.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operational Leadership:
    • Manage day-to-day operations, including workflow, staffing schedules, and resource allocation to ensure efficiency and timely delivery of service to our customers.
  • Regulatory Compliance:
    • Ensure full compliance with all federal and state (CLIA-CDPH-LFS) regulations and accreditation standards (e.g., CAP, NYSDOH).
    • Maintain current laboratory licenses and certifications, collaborate with Quality Assurance support for handling renewals and changes as needed.
    • Prepare the laboratory for inspections and audits by regulatory bodies.
  • Quality Assurance & Control (In partnership with Quality Assurance):
    • Develop, implement, and maintain quality management systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
    • Oversee quality control programs, proficiency testing & performance, and implement corrective actions when deviations occur.
    • Analyze test result data, prepare performance reports, and lead continuous quality improvement initiatives.
  • Personnel Management:
    • Supervise, hire, train, and mentor laboratory staff (Clinical Laboratory Scientists, Lab Assistants, Histotechnologists, etc.).
    • Conduct annual performance and competency evaluations, ensuring all personnel are appropriately trained and documented before testing Clinical-Trial specimens.
    • Foster a collaborative and safe work environment, enforcing all safety protocols and addressing potential hazards immediately.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology, clinical/medical laboratory science, biological science, related life science field, or equivalent from an accredited institution AND 4+ years working in a high complexity testing laboratory with a doctoral level Laboratory Director.

OR
  • Master's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical, or biological science AND 4+ years working in a a high complexity testing clinical laboratory with a doctoral level Laboratory Director.

OR
  • PhD degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, chemical, physical or biological science AND 2+ years working in a high complexity testing clinical laboratory with a doctoral level Laboratory Director.

Other:
  • Possess a current California laboratory technologist license (CLS generalist).
  • 3+ years of people leadership experience with accountability for clinical laboratory direct reports.
  • High complexity clinical laboratory experience, with knowledge of anatomic pathology, histological techniques, and Immunohistochemistry.
  • Experience in clinical document writing for laboratory SOP's and validations.
  • Clinical-Trial testing and reporting experience.
  • Willing to be hands on.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Basic understanding of companion diagnostics and drug development.
  • Practical experience with anatomic pathology and immunohistochemistry.
  • Validation of LDT's for companion diagnostics testing for Clinical-Trials.
  • Experience with other diagnostic modalities such as in situ hybridization and flow cytometry.
  • HTL/HT (ASCP) Certification.
  • Knowledge or experience with lab automation, including implementation of a Laboratory Information Management System.

Additional Details
This job has a full time weekly schedule. Applications for this job will be accepted until at least January 19, 2026 or until the job is no longer posted.
The full-time equivalent pay range for this position is $160,500.00 - $250,781.00/yr plus eligibility for bonus, stock and benefits. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. During the hiring process, a recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for a preferred location. Pay and benefit information by country are available at: https://careers.agilent.com/locations
Agilent Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity and merit-based employer that values individuals of all backgrounds at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases. Agilent Technologies, Inc., is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive in the workplace where everyone is welcome, and strives to support candidates with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance with any part of the application or interview process or have questions about workplace accessibility, please email job_posting@agilent.com or contact +1-262-754-5030. For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please visit www.agilent.com/en/accessibility.
Travel Required:
Occasional
Shift:
Day
Duration:
No End Date
Job Function:
R&D

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