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Chemical Engineering Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Analysis Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

This is a hands-on, lab-based role focused on executing analytical jobs, collecting high-quality ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with 3+ ...

Sr. Lab Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Onsite Clariant is seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to join the Catalyst Research & Development team ... S. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related technical discipline with 2 ...

Senior Chemical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$111K - $139K/yr

... lab and to analyze their data. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and be part of the ... Experience in leading engineering verification tests, RCA and addressing model to data gap

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Chemical Lab Technician

Hayward, CA · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

About the job The Chemical Lab Technician is responsible for conducting chemical and ultra-pure ... We're looking for someone who ● Holds an Associate's degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or a ...

Wet Lab Technician

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

QUALIFICATIONS: • BS degree in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry preferred. • 2-5 years experience in Chemical Lab, preferably in Printed Circuit Board (PCB) industry. • Knowledge of Lab Wizard ...

Industrial Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Operations Group, Operations Group > Industrial Engineering General Summary: Own and improve lab ... Codes, standards, and safety mindset (electrical, fire/life safety, chemical and specialty-lab ...

Laboratory Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

... Engineers by generating and summarizing test data. * Prepare and test coatings, cleaners, pretreatments, paints, and chemical mixtures. * Evaluate, collect, and record experimental data in lab ...

We have an opening for Chemical Lab Technician to work in the area of explosives synthesis ... Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technical personnel to provide general technical ...

Chemical Lab Technician

Livermore, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $28.25/hr

We have an opening for Chemical Lab Technician to work in the area of explosives synthesis ... Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technical personnel to provide general technical ...

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Chemical Engineering Lab information

See California salary details

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How much do chemical engineering lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical engineering lab in California is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chemical engineering lab?

A chemical engineering lab is a specialized facility where chemical engineering principles are applied to conduct experiments, research, and testing related to chemical processes and materials. These labs are equipped with instruments and apparatus used to study reactions, analyze substances, and develop new materials or processes. Chemical engineering labs are vital for advancing knowledge in the field, improving industrial processes, and ensuring safety and efficiency in chemical production. Students, researchers, and professionals use these labs to gain hands-on experience and validate theoretical concepts.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior chemical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in leadership roles or in high-demand industries. Achieving this salary often requires expertise in process optimization, project management, and proficiency with industry tools like simulation software.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior chemical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles in the industry can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. High compensation is often associated with executive-level positions or specialized roles in large corporations or high-demand sectors.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineering Lab vs Chemical Process Engineer?

AspectChemical Engineering LabChemical Process Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in chemical engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, testing and experimentationIndustrial plant or manufacturing facility, process design and optimization
Industry UsageResearch institutions, labs, academiaChemical manufacturing, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals
Common Search IntentEntry-level lab roles, testing proceduresProcess design, plant operation, optimization

The main difference is that Chemical Engineering Labs focus on testing, experimentation, and research within a lab environment, often involving testing new materials or processes. Chemical Process Engineers work in industrial settings, applying engineering principles to design, operate, and optimize chemical production processes. Both roles require a chemical engineering background but serve different stages of the product development and manufacturing lifecycle.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a Chemical Engineering Lab, and how can new team members effectively navigate them?

Working in a Chemical Engineering Lab often involves handling complex experiments, maintaining strict safety protocols, and troubleshooting unexpected results. New team members might find it challenging to quickly learn specialized equipment and adapt to the fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. To succeed, it’s important to actively communicate with colleagues, seek guidance when needed, and maintain meticulous records of procedures and results. Collaborating closely with both engineers and technicians can also help accelerate your learning and integration into the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chemical Engineering Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineering Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, lab safety, and analytical techniques, often supported by a degree or diploma in chemical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software, and adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help ensure accuracy and foster collaboration within the team. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe lab environments, producing reliable results, and supporting research and development in chemical engineering.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior chemical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in process optimization or management can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level engineering roles in industries like oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or specialty chemicals often offer such compensation, especially with leadership responsibilities or bonuses.

Can a Chemical Engineer work in a lab?

Yes, chemical engineers often work in laboratories where they conduct experiments, develop processes, and analyze chemical reactions. Laboratory work is a common part of their role, requiring skills in instrumentation, safety protocols, and data analysis.
What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineering Lab jobs in California? For Chemical Engineering Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Engineering Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Engineering Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Engineering Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Chemical Engineering Lab job openings:
Engineering Lab Technician (Lab Admin w/safety) - Santa Clara, California

Engineering Lab Technician (Lab Admin w/safety) - Santa Clara, California

Ztek Consulting INC

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Engineering Lab Technician (Lab Admin w/safety)
 
Location: Santa Clara, California (Onsite)
 
Type of Hire: Full-time
Job Description:
  • Engineering Lab Technician to support global HW lab infrastructure for silicon validation.
  • The complex nature of the hardware creates interesting challenges.
  • Therefore, someone with a solid understanding and innovative thinking is required to support meeting critical breakthroughs.
Responsibilities:
  • Conduct daily routine labs walk through to find out any issue or concern that needs to be addressed and enable us to keep our labs as safe working environment.
  • Documenting all chemical usage and storage accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Working closely with Facility and Environment, Health and Safety to keep track of all incoming and outgoing chemicals that are used in all labs.
  • Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Ensure all laboratory procedures are performed in compliance with established protocols and standards.
  • Participate in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment, adhering to safety regulations and protocols.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, like: air/water leak, air/ water pressure, power lost, network issue...etc.
  • Record and analyze data, interpret results, and provide concise written reports.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and other departments as needed.
  • Familiar with hand tools and power tools to build simple structures, racks, carts, benches, and any other things that relate to the lab environment.
  • Working closely with the HW farm team to coordinate setups, configure and maintain lab machines consisting of GPUs, CPUs and SoCs. Setup and operate lab equipment such as scopes, thermal solutions, debugger systems, data acquisition systems as needed for testing and debug.
  • Provide critical support, collaboration with infrastructure, facilities, and hardware rework lab groups.
Qualifications:
  • 5+ years of relevant industry experience.
  • Excellent experience with keeping track and maintaining chemical inventory. (e.g., biology, chemistry, or a related discipline).
  • Excellent coordination and interpersonal skills to effectively convey technical information and collaborate with the team
  • Excellent problem solving, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
  • Experience with lab instruments (oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers), hand tools and power tools.
  • Strong background in general mechanical engineering.
  • Basic understanding of laboratory techniques and safety protocols.
  • Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and protocols accurately.
  • Proficient in using computer applications for data entry and analysis.
  • Prior experiences in managing hardware, lab setups and software issues in the lab.
  • In-depth knowledge of various motherboard platforms, SoCs, PC HW such as graphic cards, memory and storage.
 
Education:
  • Any Degree or High School with relevant experience