Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Overview
Join a dynamic R&D team focused on developing the next generation of analytical instruments for the characterization of macromolecules, nanoparticles, and complex biological systems. As a Development Engineer I - Evaluation, you will support the testing, verification, and validation of new instrument platforms and technologies, with a primary focus on light scattering and chromatography-based analytical systems.
This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory work, scientific experimentation, data analysis, and problem solving. Working closely with engineers, scientists, and cross-functional teams, you will help ensure new products meet performance, reliability, and quality requirements before release.
Responsibilities

• Execute verification and validation testing for new instrument platforms, subsystems, and software features.
• Perform laboratory experiments to characterize system performance, reliability, robustness, and usability.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot scientific instrumentation, including HPLC/LC systems and light scattering instruments.
• Collect, analyze, and document experimental data using statistical and graphical analysis methods.
• Prepare clear and concise test reports summarizing results, observations, deviations, and recommendations.
• Assist in developing test protocols, validation procedures, and acceptance criteria.
• Support prototype assembly, integration, and evaluation activities.
• Investigate and reproduce reported issues to assist engineering teams in root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, test fixtures, and test records in accordance with quality procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering, applications, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful product development and transfer.

Qualifications
Required

• Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or another scientific discipline with 1-2 years of experience
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to accurately document experimental procedures and results.
• Familiarity with scientific data analysis using Excel or similar tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Preferred

• Experience working with scientific instruments in a laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with liquid chromatography (LC/HPLC) systems and workflows.
• Exposure to light scattering instrumentation or related analytical techniques.
• Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data.
• Experience with software tools such as Excel, Origin, MATLAB, Python, JMP, or similar analytical platforms.
• Understanding of laboratory best practices, calibration, and measurement fundamentals.

Company Description
Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT) is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.
Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.