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Biological Systems Engineering Jobs in California

Job Function: R&D Product Development Job Sub Function: R&D Software/Systems Engineering Job ... biology and technology, we're developing the next generation of smarter, less invasive, more ...

Sr. Systems Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$126K - $185K/yr

Help improve engineering processes related to requirements management, verification, system ... sensors, or biological assays. * Strong ability to define clear requirements, test plans ...

Sr. Systems Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

Help improve engineering processes related to requirements management, verification, system ... sensors, or biological assays. * Strong ability to define clear requirements, test plans ...

Sr. Systems Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$114K - $156K/yr

Required Qualifications • Bachelor's degree or higher in Systems Engineering, Biomedical ... sensors, or biological assays. • Strong ability to define clear requirements, test plans ...

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$115K - $175K/yr

... engineering role that offers the opportunity to build deep expertise in optical systems, robotic calibration and automation, and the characterization of light interactions with biological systems.

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$115 - $175/hr

... engineering role that offers the opportunity to build deep expertise in optical systems, robotic calibration and automation, and the characterization of light interactions with biological systems.

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$149K - $193K/yr

... engineering role that offers the opportunity to build deep expertise in optical systems, robotic calibration and automation, and the characterization of light interactions with biological systems.

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$115K - $175K/yr

... engineering role that offers the opportunity to build deep expertise in optical systems, robotic calibration and automation, and the characterization of light interactions with biological systems.

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$115 - $175/hr

... engineering role that offers the opportunity to build deep expertise in optical systems, robotic calibration and automation, and the characterization of light interactions with biological systems.

Showing results 21-40

Biological Systems Engineering information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$41.6K

$55.3K

How much do biological systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological systems engineering in California is $41,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $45,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is biological systems engineering?

Biological Systems Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that applies engineering principles to biological and agricultural systems. Professionals in this field work on developing sustainable solutions for food production, environmental protection, bioenergy, and resource management. They integrate biology, chemistry, and engineering to design systems and technologies that improve the efficiency and sustainability of processes involving living organisms. Careers can include work in agriculture, environmental consulting, biotechnology, and renewable energy industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biological systems engineer?

To thrive as a Biological Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, biology, and mathematics, generally supported by a degree in biological systems engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, modeling tools like MATLAB, and knowledge of relevant industry standards or certifications (such as FE/EIT) is often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals excel in multidisciplinary projects and effectively convey complex ideas. These skills and qualifications ensure engineers can develop sustainable solutions to biological and agricultural challenges, bridging the gap between engineering and life sciences.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for biological systems engineers within an organization?

Biological Systems Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from a variety of fields, such as agronomists, environmental scientists, mechanical engineers, and computer scientists. These collaborations often focus on developing sustainable solutions for agricultural production, environmental protection, or bioenergy systems. Working in cross-functional teams helps Biological Systems Engineers address complex real-world challenges, integrate new technologies, and ensure that project outcomes are practical and scalable. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as projects may involve coordinating fieldwork, data analysis, and system optimization.

What is the difference between Biological Systems Engineering vs Agricultural Engineer?

AspectBiological Systems EngineeringAgricultural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Biological Systems Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Agricultural Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, environmental systemsFarms, agricultural facilities, rural settings
Industry UsageBiotech, environmental, healthcare, manufacturingAgriculture, food production, rural infrastructure

Biological Systems Engineering focuses on applying engineering principles to biological systems across various industries, including healthcare and environmental management. Agricultural Engineers primarily work within the agriculture sector, designing systems for farming, irrigation, and food production. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

Are biological systems engineers well paid?

Biological systems engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions often start around the national average for engineering roles, with experienced professionals earning higher wages, especially in industries like biotechnology, agriculture, and environmental management. Certifications and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

Is biological systems engineering a good major?

Biological systems engineering is a versatile major that combines biology, engineering, and technology to develop solutions in agriculture, healthcare, and environmental management. Graduates often find employment in research, manufacturing, or consulting, and the field values skills in problem-solving, systems analysis, and technical tools like CAD and data modeling.

What jobs can you get with a biological systems engineering degree?

Biological systems engineering graduates can pursue careers as biological or agricultural engineers, environmental engineers, or process engineers, often working in industries such as agriculture, healthcare, or environmental management. These roles typically require knowledge of biology, engineering principles, and often involve designing systems, managing projects, or improving processes using tools like CAD software and data analysis. Certification or licensing may be required for certain engineering positions.

What are popular job titles related to Biological Systems Engineering jobs in California?

For Biological Systems Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biological Systems Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Biological Systems Engineering jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Biological Systems Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,554 per year, or $20 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer

Jj

Santa Clara, CA

$125K - $201K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

At Johnson & Johnson,we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build aworld where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured,where treatments are smarter and less invasive, andsolutions are personal.Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity.Learn more at jnj.com

As guided by Our Credo, Johnson & Johnson is responsible to our employees who work with us throughout the world. We provide an inclusive work environment where each person is considered as an individual. At Johnson & Johnson, we respect the diversity and dignity of our employees and recognize their merit.

Job Function:

R&D Product Development

Job Sub Function:

R&D Software/Systems Engineering

Job Category:

Scientific/Technology

All Job Posting Locations:

Santa Clara, California, United States of America

Job Description:

About MedTech

Fueled by innovation at the intersection of biology and technology, we're developing the next generation of smarter, less invasive, more personalized treatments.

Your unique talents will help patients on their journey to wellness. Learn more at https://www.jnj.com/medtech

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in the success of the next generation of surgical robotics by bringing technical expertise and interpersonal skills to a sophisticated, fast-paced development team. You will guide development of system and subsystem architecture and design with a focus on capital equipment by maintaining a comprehensive view of the system and balancing input from both the business and the user. In this role, you will drive key architectural, design, and interface decisions and are responsible for ensuring the completeness and quality of the associated design controls and documentation.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Define Architecture, Requirements, and Risk Management deliverables for a complex electro-mechanical system and associated subsystem(s) with a focus on capital equipment.

  • Lead cross-functional teams through trade-off decisions, balancing customer needs, business goals, technical complexity, and safety.

  • Align R&D teams to customer and business needs through clear communication and effective leadership.

  • Collaborate within R&D to plan and mitigate development risks across critical interfaces.

  • Improve and standardize Systems Engineering processes.

  • Work with verification teams to create test strategies and ensure design input verifiability.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Systems, Mechanical, Electrical, Software, Biomedical), Computer Science, or other related field.

  • 4+ years of related work experience in an engineering role.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead and collaborate across teams and functions.

  • Working knowledge of requirements and risk management tools and processes.

  • Experience translating business and user needs to system and subsystem architecture and requirements.

  • Ability to break down complex engineering problems into manageable components.

  • Ability to effectively communicate concepts and ideas to multi-functional audiences.

  • Experience working within quality management systems.

  • Ability to travel up to 25% travel, domestic and/or international.

Assets:

  • 2+ years in a systems engineering role.

  • Experience with surgical devices, procedures, and customers.

  • Experience within medical device industry or other regulated industry.

  • Experience performing product risk analysis activities (e.g., in accordance with ISO 14971).

  • Experience with JAMA or similar requirements management tools.

  • Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Johnson & Johnson is committed to providing an interview process that is inclusive of our applicants' needs. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation, external applicants please contact us via https://www.jnj.com/contact-us/careers , internal employees contact AskGS to be directed to your accommodation resource.

Required Skills:

Preferred Skills:

The anticipated base pay range for this position is :

$125,000.00 - $201,250.00

Additional Description for Pay Transparency:

Subject to the terms of their respective plans, employees and/or eligible dependents are eligible to participate in the following Company sponsored employee benefit programs: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, business accident insurance, and group legal insurance.
Subject to the terms of their respective plans, employees are eligible to participate in the Company's consolidated retirement plan (pension) and savings plan (401(k)).
Subject to the terms of their respective policies and date of hire, Employees are eligible for the following time off benefits:
Vacation -120 hours per calendar year
Sick time - 40 hours per calendar year; for employees who reside in the State of Washington -56 hours per calendar year
Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays -13 days per calendar year
Work, Personal and Family Time - up to 40 hours per calendar year
Parental Leave - 480 hours within one year of the birth/adoption/foster care of a child
Condolence Leave - 30 days for an immediate family member: 5 days for an extended family member
Caregiver Leave - 10 days
Volunteer Leave - 4 days
Military Spouse Time-Off - 80 hours
Additional information can be found through the link below.
https://www.careers.jnj.com/employee-benefits