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Lab Automation 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 ...

Cinder LLC

Automation Lab Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$50/hr

Automation Lab Engineer Pay Rate: $50/hr + DOE Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Full Time About Our Client Novus Labs is an engineering company supporting the largest tech companies in bringing some of ...

Moderna Therapeutics

The Role The Associate Director, Quality Control Lab Automation Strategy & Digital Integration is responsible for leading the strategy, implementation, and lifecycle management of laboratory ...

Predicine, Inc

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

Exposure to lab automation platforms and instrumentation (e.g., Agilent, Bio-Rad, Thermo Fisher ) and lab software (e.g., BIOlims ) preferred * Understanding of barcoding, labware management, and ...

Predicine, Inc

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

Exposure to lab automation platforms and instrumentation (e.g., Agilent, Bio-Rad, Thermo Fisher ) and lab software (e.g., BIOlims ) preferred * Understanding of barcoding, labware management, and ...

Phizenix

Sr. Director - FP&A Systems

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

Experience with remote engineering workflows or lab automation. Certifications: PMP, ITIL, Six Sigma (a plus). Required Skills * 15+ years in IT or technology leadership, including 5+ years in ...

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All JobsLab Automation JobsLab Automation Jobs in California

Lab Automation information

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$9

$24

$44

How much do lab automation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab automation in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Automation vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AutomationLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science, engineering, or related field; certifications in automation systems are a plusUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks with automated systems, robotics, and software in labs or manufacturing settingsPerforms manual testing, sample preparation, and data recording in laboratory settings
Industry UsageCommon in biotech, pharmaceutical, and research labs focusing on automationFound across medical, environmental, and industrial laboratories performing routine testing

Lab Automation specialists focus on designing, maintaining, and improving automated laboratory systems, often requiring technical and engineering skills. Laboratory Technicians perform manual testing and sample processing, typically with less emphasis on automation. Both roles are essential in laboratory operations but differ in technical complexity and daily tasks.

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

To excel in Lab Automation, you need a strong background in laboratory science, automation technology, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), robotics, and programming languages like Python or VBA is highly advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate, efficient, and scalable laboratory workflows, driving productivity and innovation in scientific research or diagnostics.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in lab automation and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in lab automation roles is integrating new automation technologies with existing laboratory equipment and workflows. This can require close collaboration with scientists, IT staff, and vendors to ensure compatibility and minimize disruptions. Keeping up with rapidly changing technology and troubleshooting complex systems are also frequent aspects of the job. Continuous training, proactive maintenance, and clear communication with cross-functional teams can help address these challenges and support efficient lab operations.

What is lab automation?

Lab automation refers to the use of technology, such as robotics and software, to perform laboratory tasks with minimal human intervention. This approach increases efficiency, improves accuracy, and reduces the risk of human error in tasks like sample preparation, testing, and data analysis. Lab automation is widely used in research, clinical labs, and pharmaceutical development to streamline workflows and handle large volumes of samples. Automation can range from simple liquid handling robots to fully integrated systems that manage entire laboratory processes.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Automation jobs in California? For Lab Automation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Automation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Automation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Automation jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Automation job openings:
Lab Automation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Automation job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Lab Automation Engineer

Voltai, Inc

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

About Voltai
Voltai is developing world models, and agents to learn, evaluate, plan, experiment, and interact with the physical world. We are starting out with understanding and building hardware; electronics systems and semiconductors where AI can design and create beyond human cognitive limits.
About the Team
Backed by Silicon Valley's top investors, Stanford University, and CEOs/Presidents of Google, AMD, Broadcom, Marvell, etc. We are a team of previous Stanford professors, SAIL researchers, Olympiad medalists (IPhO, IOI, etc.), CTOs of Synopsys & GlobalFoundries, Head of Sales & CRO of Cadence, former US Secretary of Defense, National Security Advisor, and Senior Foreign-Policy Advisor to four US presidents.
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 qualify silicon and board-level designs - integrating software, robotics, and data pipelines for continuous validation and improvement.
You might thrive if you have 5+ years of experience in
  • Python, LabVIEW, or test automation frameworks
  • Instrumentation control (SCPI, VISA, PXI, etc.)
  • Data acquisition, measurement analysis, and reporting automation
  • Hardware bring-up, test planning, and failure reproduction

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