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Lab Automation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Voltai, Inc

Lab Automation Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

About this Role You'll design, implement, and maintain the automation infrastructure that powers Voltai's hardware validation labs. You'll build systems that automatically test, characterize, and ...

Voltai

Lab Automation Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

About this Role You'll design, implement, and maintain the automation infrastructure that powers Voltai's hardware validation labs. You'll build systems that automatically test, characterize, and ...

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All JobsLab Automation Engineer JobsLab Automation Engineer Jobs in California

Lab Automation Engineer information

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$47

$71

How much do lab automation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab automation engineer in California is $47.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.30 and $59.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Lab Automation Engineer do?

A Lab Automation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains automated systems used in laboratory environments to improve efficiency, accuracy, and reproducibility of experiments. They work with robotics, software, and laboratory instruments to streamline workflows for research, diagnostics, or manufacturing processes. Their responsibilities often include programming automation scripts, integrating hardware and software, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with scientists to optimize lab operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lab Automation Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering or life sciences, experience with laboratory workflows, and proficiency in programming and automation. Familiarity with tools such as liquid handling robots, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), scripting languages (like Python or VBA), and certifications like Six Sigma or CLIA can be highly advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for designing efficient automated systems, maintaining equipment, and ensuring seamless lab operations in complex, collaborative environments.

What are some common challenges Lab Automation Engineers face in their daily work?

Lab Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting integration issues between new automation equipment and existing lab systems, as well as optimizing protocols for maximum efficiency. Adjusting to rapidly evolving technology and managing the customization of automated solutions for diverse experiments are also common aspects of the role. Collaboration with scientists, IT specialists, and quality control teams is essential to ensure that automation meets both technical and regulatory requirements. Successfully navigating these challenges requires adaptability, communication, and a solution-oriented mindset.

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What job categories do people searching Lab Automation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Automation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Automation Engineer job openings:
Lab Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Automation Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,360 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
Lab Automation Engineer

Lab Automation Engineer

Revolution Medicines

Redwood City, CA • Hybrid

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity:

We are seeking an Associate Automation Engineer to join our laboratory automation team. The successful candidate will support the day-to-day operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated laboratory instrumentation and integrated automation systems. This individual will work closely with scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to ensure reliable laboratory operations and support automation-driven workflows. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with laboratory automation platforms, instrumentation support, software-driven workflows, equipment validation, and troubleshooting of mechanical systems, along with a strong interest in process improvement and operational efficiency.
As a member of the Automation Engineering team, you will contribute to the team with accountability for the following:

  • Develop and maintain automation methods using laboratory control platforms such as Tecan FluentControl, Hamilton Venus, Agilent VWorks, HighRes Cellario Scheduler, and Beckman Coulter Tempo/Echo.

  • Provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and maintenance for automated laboratory instrumentation and integrated automation systems to ensure reliable day-to-day operations.

  • Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, software, and system integration issues to minimize equipment downtime and maintain operational continuity.

  • Perform routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance activities, including equipment upgrades, modifications, and validation support.

  • Execute installation, testing, and validation activities to verify equipment performance, accuracy, reliability, and laboratory stability.

  • Coordinate issue triage with vendors and external service providers while maintaining accurate equipment records, maintenance logs, and validation documentation.

  • Train end users on laboratory automation systems and contribute to process improvements, operational initiatives, and innovations that enhance laboratory efficiency.

Required Skills, Experience and Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, scientific discipline, or a related field.

  • 3+ years of relevant experience including service or support role.

  • Experience with laboratory instrumentation and automation systems.

  • Good communication and organizational skills.

Preferred Skills:

  • Knowledge of discovery chemistry lab workflows including compound management and HTS.

  • Experience troubleshooting liquid handling instruments such as Tecan Fluent or Hamilton STAR.

  • Experience writing protocols for Tecan Fluent, Hamilton Venus, and Cellario Scheduler. 

    #LI-Hybrid  #LI-LN1

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