How much does a Lab Supervisor make?
A Lab Supervisor plays a crucial role in managing laboratory operations. They oversee staff, ensure safety protocols, and maintain quality standards. This role often requires a mix of scientific knowledge and leadership skills. The average yearly salary for a Lab Supervisor is around $81,086. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
The salary range for Lab Supervisors can be quite broad. At the lower end, some earn around $37,860 per year. As experience grows, so does the salary. Those with more than a decade of experience can earn upwards of $143,110 annually. This range reflects the importance of the role and the value placed on experienced professionals in the field. A Lab Supervisor's salary can also depend on the industry, with some sectors offering higher pay than others.
What are the highest paying cities for a Lab Supervisor?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $117,786
In Seattle, a leader in technology, a lab supervisor oversees teams in cutting-edge research. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer dynamic environments. Seattle's vibrant culture enhances the work experience.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $112,608
Chicago provides a rich environment for lab supervisors. They manage teams in healthcare and research institutions. Companies such as Northwestern and AbbVie offer diverse opportunities. The city's cultural scene adds to the professional experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $108,599
Los Angeles offers a unique setting for lab supervisors. They work in entertainment and tech industries. Companies like UCLA and SpaceX provide innovative projects. The city's diverse culture enriches the work life.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $90,793
Houston is a hub for energy and medical research. Lab supervisors lead teams in major companies like ExxonMobil and MD Anderson. The city's growth offers many career opportunities. Houston's vibrant community enhances the professional experience.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $88,867
Las Vegas offers a dynamic environment for lab supervisors. They work in gaming and hospitality sectors. Companies like MGM Resorts and Caesars offer exciting projects. The city's entertainment scene adds to the work experience.
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Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $82,997
Columbia provides a supportive environment for lab supervisors. They work in academic and research institutions. The University of Missouri offers many opportunities. The city's community spirit enhances the professional experience.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $82,573
Pittsburgh offers a strong industrial base for lab supervisors. They work in healthcare and technology sectors. Companies like UPMC and Carnegie Mellon offer innovative projects. The city's rich history adds to the work experience.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $82,074
Columbus provides a balanced environment for lab supervisors. They work in healthcare and technology sectors. Companies like Battelle and Nationwide offer diverse opportunities. The city's growing culture enhances the professional experience.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $78,587
Phoenix offers a growing environment for lab supervisors. They work in healthcare and technology sectors. Companies like Banner Health and Intel offer innovative projects. The city's warm climate adds to the work experience.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $76,217
Cleveland offers a strong industrial base for lab supervisors. They work in healthcare and technology sectors. Companies like Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams offer diverse opportunities. The city's rich culture enhances the professional experience.
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What are the best companies a Lab Supervisor can work for?

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Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $83,386
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers Lab Supervisor jobs with a strong focus on scientific research and development. They operate globally, with major locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment and opportunities for career growth.
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LabCorp
Average Salary: $80,668
LabCorp provides Lab Supervisor positions with a commitment to quality and innovation. They have numerous locations across the United States, including major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. LabCorp emphasizes teamwork and continuous learning.
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Quest Diagnostics
Average Salary: $79,180
Quest Diagnostics offers Lab Supervisor roles with a focus on patient care and diagnostic services. They have a widespread presence in the United States, with key locations in California, Texas, and New York. The company values collaboration and professional development.
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BJC HealthCare
Average Salary: $77,114
BJC HealthCare provides Lab Supervisor jobs with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care. They operate in the Midwest, with major locations in Missouri and Illinois. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for advancement.
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Cal Lab LLC
Average Salary: $54,161
Cal Lab LLC offers Lab Supervisor positions with a focus on specialized laboratory services. They have locations in California, providing a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic industry. The company values expertise and dedication to quality.
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Visionworks
Average Salary: $37,143
Visionworks provides Lab Supervisor roles with a focus on eye care and optical services. They have locations across the United States, offering a chance to work in a supportive and community-oriented environment. The company values teamwork and customer service.
How to earn more as a Lab Supervisor?
A lab supervisor plays a crucial role in ensuring that laboratory operations run smoothly and efficiently. To earn more in this role, consider these key factors that can enhance your value and potentially lead to higher compensation.
First, gaining additional certifications can open new opportunities. Certifications in specialized areas of lab work can make a supervisor more valuable. For example, certifications in quality control or specific lab techniques can set a supervisor apart. Second, taking on leadership roles within professional organizations can increase visibility and credibility. Active participation in these groups can lead to networking opportunities and potential job offers. Third, pursuing advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying positions. A master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related field can make a supervisor more competitive in the job market. Fourth, developing strong management skills can lead to promotions. Effective leadership and team management can result in higher responsibilities and pay. Finally, staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies can make a supervisor more efficient and valuable. Continuous learning and adaptation can help in managing a lab more effectively.
Investing in these areas can lead to increased earning potential as a lab supervisor. By enhancing skills and qualifications, a supervisor can position themselves for higher-paying roles and greater job satisfaction.
- Gain additional certifications
- Take on leadership roles in professional organizations
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Develop strong management skills
- Stay updated with industry trends and technologies