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Lab Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Natera

Senior Lab Automation Engineer

Austin, TX

$106.70K - $133.40K/yr

The Senior Lab Automation Engineer is an experienced engineer with expertise in the development and implementation of complex laboratory automation and integrated systems. They can work independently ...

Moderna Therapeutics

Sr. Automation Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$145.90K - $234.20K/yr

Collaborate with external vendors to design and procure lab automation instruments, manage Factory ... Oversee team of automation engineers responsible for designing, building, and maintaining liquid ...

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How much do lab automation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab automation engineer in the United States is $47.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.78 and $60.10 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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Lab Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,665 per year, or $47.9 per hour.
Lab Automation Hardware Engineer

Lab Automation Hardware Engineer

Slingshot Biosciences

Emeryville, CA • On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

We're looking for an Operations/Automation Engineer to support Slingshot's growing portfolio of synthetic cell products. You will work across Manufacturing Operations, R&D, and Process Engineering to drive continuous quality improvements, equipment maintenance/calibration, and technology transfer from R&D to Manufacturing.

To be successful in this role, you'll need to be detail-oriented, with a strong technical background and industry lab or manufacturing experience. Ideal candidates will also have experience in lab automation, and the ability to combine creative problem solving with the rigorous documentation required in a regulated industry. Experience with microfluidics, flow cytometry, chemistry, and/or life science is a plus. You should also be comfortable with analyzing data and writing technical reports to clearly communicate results or making recommendations to management. We are a small but growing team and the applicant must be comfortable in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Self-motivated and driven applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

  • Work in cross functional teams to support R&D and Manufacturing Operations
  • Validate, monitor, improve, and support essential technical equipment and  manufacturing processes
  • Identify and implement automated solutions to improve production capacity, efficiency, and throughput
  • Minimize downtime by maintaining critical laboratory and manufacturing equipment
  • Rigorously document processes to ensure regulatory compliance and maintain records within eQMS
  • Ensure that all lab equipment is regularly calibrated to regulatory standards.
  • Utilize CMMS software tools (e.g. Limble, Jira, AirTable, etc.) to organize and document the maintenance and calibration of industrial equipment.
  • Draft and execute installation, operational, and performance qualification protocols for equipment used in production
  • Manage and organize relationships with vendors and service providers
  • Write technical reports and present them to the leadership team.
  • Train personnel on equipment and processes related to the manufacturing of Slingshot products
  • Support general lab activities (supply chain, operations)
  • Ensure compliance with laboratory health and safety guidelines
Requirements
  • BS or MS in Engineering, or an equivalent demonstration of technical skills and background from work experience and STEM education
  • Minimum of 3 years professional experience in biotech/manufacturing, or a related industry
  • Hands-on problem solving experience, especially in the repair, maintenance, calibration and operation of manufacturing and/or scientific equipment
  • Hands-on experience in implementing and programming lab automation solutions
  • Experience with quality systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and working in regulated environments such as biopharma
  • Basic proficiency with CAD and mechanical tools such as 3D printing for rapid prototyping and troubleshooting
  • Experience with standard chemistry and/or life science lab workflows
  • Knowledge of best practices for laboratory EH&S
  • Excellent analytical and problem solving skills, with attention to detail
  • Strong organization and communication skills
  • Ability to manage and negotiate relationships with vendors and service providers
  • Experience with software tools (e.g., Limble, Jira, AirTable, etc.) for organizing and documenting equipment maintenance and calibration is preferred.
  • Flow Cytometry experience is preferred.
  • Familiarity with technical project management tools such as Jira or Github is a plus
  • Proficiency with data analysis, statistics or coding tools (e.g. Python, R, JMP, Minitab, etc.) is a plus
 
Our salary ranges are calculated by role and level. Your position within that range will be determined by your job-related knowledge, skills, experience, relevant education, and training/certifications. In addition to those factors, we also examine internal equity as well as consider current market rate, and title may be assessed one level lower or higher accordingly. After you join the company your performance, contributions, and results along with business and organizational needs will affect your base salary. The base salary range for this full-time position is between $125,000 - $200,000 + benefits.

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