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Genetic Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Rockridge Group

Software Engineer II

Emeryville, CA

$112K - $154K/yr

Among the tools we have developed are a CAD/CAM system for genetic engineering: a compiler toolchain whose target architecture is life itself. This stack physically integrates high level genetic ...

Probably Genetic

Senior Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

About Probably Genetic Probably Genetic is changing the lives of patients living with severe, complex diseases. Our data platform is used by drug developers and patient advocacy groups to develop and ...

Probably Genetic

Solutions Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$155K - $195K/yr

About Probably Genetic Probably Genetic is changing the lives of patients living with severe, complex diseases. Our data platform is used by drug developers and patient advocacy groups to develop and ...

Probably Genetic

Senior Data Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $230K/yr

About Probably Genetic Probably Genetic is changing the lives of patients living with severe, complex diseases. Our data platform is used by drug developers and patient advocacy groups to develop and ...

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All JobsGenetic Engineering JobsGenetic Engineering Jobs in California

Genetic Engineering information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$144.9K

$171.7K

How much do genetic engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for genetic engineering in California is $144,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering is a branch of biotechnology that involves directly manipulating an organism's DNA to alter its characteristics or introduce new traits. Scientists use various techniques, such as CRISPR or recombinant DNA technology, to add, remove, or modify specific genes within an organism. This technology is widely used in agriculture to create genetically modified crops, in medicine for gene therapy, and in research for understanding gene functions. Genetic engineering has the potential to address challenges in food production, disease treatment, and industrial biotechnology, but it also raises ethical and safety concerns.

What are the qualifications to get a genetic engineering job?

The qualifications needed for a genetic engineering job include at least a bachelor’s degree in genetics, biochemistry, or a related field. Many employers prefer several years of experience and a Ph.D., particularly for positions in research and development. Many individuals start their careers as members of a team working on a long-running experiment. To find a job at a university, you may need to publish your research in the scientific literature first to demonstrate your expertise. Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills are imperative. You also need patience and perseverance. Computer proficiency and a strong background in biostatics are essential for fulfilling your publishing responsibilities. Your duties also involve staying current by attending and presenting at conferences.

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

To thrive as a Genetic Engineer, you need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology, often supported by a degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as CRISPR, PCR, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing research, ensuring experiment accuracy, and developing innovative solutions in genetic science.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in genetic engineering roles?

Professionals in genetic engineering often face challenges such as staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, adhering to strict regulatory and safety protocols, and troubleshooting unexpected experimental results. Collaboration is key, as genetic engineers frequently work with multidisciplinary teams including biologists, chemists, and bioinformaticians to achieve successful project outcomes. Additionally, balancing lab work with documentation and compliance requirements is essential for advancing both research and product development.

What is the difference between Genetic Engineering vs Molecular Biologist?

AspectGenetic EngineeringMolecular Biologist
Required CredentialsTypically a Bachelor's or Master's in Genetics, Biotechnology, or related fieldsUsually a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, biotech companies, research institutionsResearch labs, academic institutions, healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, agricultural companiesUniversities, research institutes, healthcare organizations

Genetic engineers focus on modifying DNA to develop new products or improve existing ones, often working on practical applications. Molecular biologists study the molecular mechanisms of biological processes, conducting fundamental research. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, genetic engineering is more application-driven, whereas molecular biology emphasizes understanding biological systems.

Do genetic engineers make a lot of money?

Genetic engineers typically earn a competitive salary, with median annual wages in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries often exceeding the national average for science and engineering roles. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, location, and the complexity of projects, with advanced degrees and specialized skills increasing earning potential.

Is genetic engineering a good career?

Genetic engineering is a growing field that offers opportunities in research, biotechnology, and healthcare, often requiring strong backgrounds in biology, chemistry, and laboratory skills. Careers in this area can be rewarding but typically demand advanced degrees and continuous learning due to rapid technological advancements.
More about Genetic Engineering jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Genetic Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Genetic Engineering jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Genetic Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Genetic Engineering job openings:

Genetic Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Genetic Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 10% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,945 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

Software Engineer II

The Rockridge Group

Emeryville, CA

$112K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

TITLE: Software Engineer II
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT – BIOINFORMATICS AND SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
We are seeking talented, curious, and self-motivated software engineers to help build the most advanced production-scale synthetic biology platform on the planet. Client X manufactures sustainable plant-derived ingredients using fermentation-based technology to help accelerate the move away from petrochemicals in our food, cosmetics and medicines. Our ingredients are used by more than 250 million consumers in over 2,000 of the worlds’ leading brands.
R&D at Client X is a highly multidisciplinary effort and the Bioinformatics, Automation and Software Engineering (BASE) group is at its core driving us forward. Every aspect of our work, from modifying the DNA of microorganisms in the lab to full scale factory production, is facilitated by software and hardware automation. In addition, we collaborate daily with data scientists and computational biologists to use our wealth of data to solve problems using machine learning and other optimization techniques. Our tools integrate the activities of scientists, engineers, and industrial robots to enable the rapid optimization of genetic designs and laboratory processes to deliver high quality ingredients to our customers.
Among the tools we have developed are a CAD/CAM system for genetic engineering: a compiler toolchain whose target architecture is life itself. This stack physically integrates high level genetic modules into microbial hosts. We also derive novel strains through random mutagenesis and directed evolution. Using our custom control platform, we then subject these experimental organisms to high throughput performance screening in our state-of-the-art robotic labs.
Responsibilities:
  • Design, develop and maintain web-based application written in Python.
  • Collaborate with scientists to transform an understanding of their workflow into designs and implementations of appropriate data models and user interfaces.
  • Effectively communicate with research scientists.
  • Apply best practices of software development throughout your work, while staying abreast of advances in the practice.
Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of professional programming experience
  • Strong coding skills in either Python or a similar language. Ideally deep experience in multiple languages. In addition to Python, Amyris has codebases in F#, R and PHP (phasing out, but still have some important legacy code).
  • Experience with full-stack web application development, including coding skills in JavaScript, CSS and HTML. Relational database design and coding experience. We use PostgreSQL and SQL Server, though we also treat plasmids and chromosomes as datastores.
  • Experience developing software in a Unix environment. Dev tools are chosen at the developer’s discretion, but most of the software development and all production deployment is on Linux (Ubuntu).
  • Fluent Linux command-line skills.
  • Interest and ability to communicate with scientists