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Biochemical Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Iff

Senior Bioprocess Scientist/Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

D. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Food Science, Chemistry, Materials Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline; or equivalent combination of ...

Syner-G

Staff Process Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

Education * BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related technical discipline preferred. Technical Experience * 10-15+ years of ...

Codexis

Principal Process Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or related field with 10+ years of relevant industrial experience, or M.S. with 8+ years. Expertise in flow chemistry, biocatalysis ...

Illumina, Inc.

Systems Integration Engineer 1

San Diego, CA · On-site

$177K/yr

As a Systems Integration Engineer 1 at Illumina, you will work in a collaborative, team-oriented ... Execute system-level troubleshooting across biochemical assays, hardware, software, and application ...

Illumina

Systems Integration Engineer 1

Coronado, CA · On-site

$68 - $103/hr

As a Systems Integration Engineer 1 at Illumina, you will work in a collaborative, team‑oriented ... Execute system‑level troubleshooting across biochemical assays, hardware, software, and ...

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Biochemical Engineer information

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How much do biochemical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for biochemical engineer in California is $29.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a biochemical engineer?

Combining both engineering skills and a scientific background, a biochemical engineer studies the nature of chemical functions and uses research to develop or improve products. As a biochemical engineer, your job duties involve consulting with scientists to evaluate technology and products, using studies to recommend changes to processes or operations, and leading experiments to improve production while minimizing waste. You also design experimental activities within laboratories to ensure compliance with biohazard regulations and maintain databases of experiment-related information. The materials you work with may be organic or lab-made depending on your field of expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biochemical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biochemical Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering, biology, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in biochemical or chemical engineering. Familiarity with bioprocessing equipment, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is important. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork skills set outstanding biochemical engineers apart. These competencies are essential for developing innovative solutions, ensuring process efficiency, and maintaining safety and compliance in biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries.

What are some typical challenges a biochemical engineer faces when scaling up processes from the lab to industrial production?

Biochemical Engineers often encounter challenges when transitioning processes from laboratory scale to full-scale manufacturing, including maintaining product consistency, optimizing yield, and controlling contamination risks. Variables such as mixing, temperature, and pH are easier to control in small batches, but become more complex at larger volumes. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including microbiologists, mechanical engineers, and quality assurance professionals—is essential to troubleshoot issues and ensure successful scale-up. Addressing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to evolving project needs.

What is the difference between Biochemical Engineer vs Chemical Engineer?

AspectBiochemical EngineerChemical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Biochemical, Chemical, or Biological EngineeringBachelor's in Chemical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentBiotech labs, pharmaceutical companies, research facilitiesChemical plants, manufacturing facilities, process industries
Industry UsageBiotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food processingPetrochemical, chemicals, energy production

Biochemical Engineers focus on applying engineering principles to biological systems, often working in biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Chemical Engineers have a broader scope, working on chemical processes across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

Are biochemical engineers in demand?

Biochemical engineers are in demand due to growth in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental management. They often require strong knowledge of biology, chemistry, and process engineering, with employment opportunities available in research labs, manufacturing plants, and regulatory agencies.

Do biochemical engineers make a lot of money?

Biochemical engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and industry. According to industry data, the median annual wage is above the national average for engineering roles, and salaries can increase with advanced skills, certifications, and managerial responsibilities.

What jobs do biochemical engineers do?

Biochemical engineers design and develop processes to produce pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and other bioproducts using biological organisms and systems. They work in laboratories and manufacturing facilities, applying skills in process engineering, microbiology, and biochemistry to optimize production methods and ensure safety and efficiency.
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Biochemical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biochemical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,694 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Senior Scientist, Biochemistry & Research Applications

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Iff
See more jobs at Iffexternal

$115K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

Are you passionate about using biotechnology and biochemistry to create sustainable solutions for food, feed, and renewable fuels?
IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.
Health & Biosciences: Channeling our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologies that power innovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer and industrial markets.
The role is based in Palo Alto, California. Be part of a collaborative, innovative, and solution-oriented team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration.

Where You'll Make a Difference

  • Investigate the impact of enzyme in the production of vegetable oil & fats derived products, biofuels, animal feed, and food ingredients.
  • Apply expertise in biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, fermentation, or related disciplines to develop innovative technical solutions.
  • Build and optimize laboratory and digital model systems that evaluate enzyme in customer-relevant processes with a special focus on vegetable oil & fats processing.
  • Design, execute, analyze, and present experimental plans and research findings to project teams and stakeholders.
  • Generate technical data and provide bioanalytical and applications support for research and product development initiatives.
  • Lead technical workstreams and contribute creative ideas that advance innovation and business objectives.
  • Advise on technical feasibility of new ideas and concepts.
  • Translate customer and industry needs into technical targets guiding the research work.
  • Engage with customers on technical discussions and support customer trials.
  • Support the transfer and implementation of new products and processes to manufacturing sites and customer operations.
  • Utilize advanced digital tools and data analysis techniques to evaluate laboratory and customer process datasets.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across global locations to drive project success and deliver value to customers.

What Makes You the Right Fit

  • Ph.D. in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Minimum of 3 years of relevant laboratory experience in an academic, biotechnology, food, or industrial research environment.
  • Hands-on experience with bioanalytical instrumentation and biochemical assay development.
  • Hands on experience using enzymes in the vegetable oil & fats processing industry
  • Strong understanding of enzymology, fermentation, bioprocessing, or related biochemical systems.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of experimental design, statistical analysis, and interpretation of scientific data.
  • Experience translating research findings into practical applications and product development opportunities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively present technical information.
  • Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 20% as required.

How Would You Stand Out?

  • Experience with yeast fermentation, oil biochemistry, or grain processing applications.
  • Proficiency using advanced digital modeling, data analytics, or process simulation tools.
  • Creative, adaptable, and proactive approach to solving complex scientific challenges.
Why Choose Us?
  • Competitive Benefits (US):Our benefit package includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k), vacation, holidays, 16 weeks paid parental leave (maternity and paternity), and an annual bonus plan. IFF was also recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Perks & Benefits.
  • Diversity & Inclusion (US):IFF has been recognized previously in the US on the Disability Equality Index - Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion
  • Innovation:Gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies and trailblazing advancements in biotechnology. Meaningful work helping advance solutions for renewable fuels, food ingredients, and animal nutrition.
  • Global Collaboration:Be part of a global organization that values innovation, creativity, and collaborating amongst our diverse, cross-functional teams
  • Sustainability:Contribute to solutions that support a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world. IFF was recognized on the Forbes Net Zero Leaders 2026 list within the chemicals/materials sector.

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more

Salary Ranges:

100,436.00-143,480.00USD

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