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Lab Automation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Periodic Labs

Automation Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

We're building an autonomous lab to speed up materials discovery, and we need someone who loves making instruments, robots, and data systems run together smoothly. As our Automation Engineer, you'll ...

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 ...

Predicine, Inc

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

Automation Engineer (Laboratory) - NGS / Liquid Biopsy Predicine is a Silicon Valley-based global ... Exposure to lab automation platforms and instrumentation (e.g., Agilent, Bio-Rad, Thermo Fisher ...

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Lab Automation Engineer information

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How much do lab automation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 as a lab automation engineer?

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,360 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Senior Lab Automation Engineer

Revolution Medicines

Redwood City, CA • Hybrid

$127K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity:

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.

  • Demonstrated experience independently developing, deploying, and supporting complex laboratory automation workflows.

  • Experience leading technical projects involving laboratory automation platforms from requirements gathering through production implementation.

  • 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 Experience, Skills, and Education:

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

  • 7+ 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.

  • Extensive experience developing, troubleshooting, and optimizing liquid handling platforms including Tecan Fluent, Hamilton STAR/Vantage, Echo, and integrated laboratory automation systems.

  • Extensive experience developing production-ready automation methods using Tecan FluentControl, Hamilton VENUS, HighRes Cellario Scheduler, Agilent VWorks, or comparable automation software platforms.

  • Experience evaluating automation technologies and influencing laboratory automation strategy.

  • Familiarity with source control, scripting (Python, C#, or similar), and software engineering best practices for laboratory automation.

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