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Lab Automation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

VDart

Sr. QA Automation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

A successful candidate should be self-driven, an expert in Python automation, and capable of thriving in a collaborative, fast-paced lab environment. Responsibilities and Tasks: • Test Strategy ...

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All JobsLab Automation JobsLab Automation Jobs in California

Lab Automation information

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$9

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$44

How much do lab automation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Software Engineer, Senior - Biopharma, GMP Lab Instruments Automation (JP13852)

Software Engineer, Senior - Biopharma, GMP Lab Instruments Automation (JP13852)

3 Key Consulting

Thousand Oaks, CA

$70 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title:Software Engineer, Senior - Biopharma, GMP Lab Instruments Automation (JP13852)
Location:Thousand Oaks, CA. 91320
Business Unit:Research & AutomationTechnologies
Employment Type: Contract
Duration:3 years with possible conversion to FTE
Rate: $70 - $80/hour W2 DOE with benefits.
Posting Date:3/25/2025
Notes: This is a 100% Onsite Position in Amgen's Thousand Oaks, CA. Candidates must be local (no relocation)
3 Key Consulting is hiring! We are recruiting a Senior Software Engineerfor a consulting engagement with our direct client, a leading global biotechnology company.
Job Description:
This role is office based, lab based, manufacturing floor. Candidate will be lab and office based. 50/50, working with lab instruments. Develop software to:
(1) control 3rd party and in-house, novel lab automation devices.
(2) automate data between lab automation and LIMS systems (e.g. Benchling) in close partnership with our infrastructure ecosystem team
(3) Manage DevOps infrastructure (GitLab, Team City, AWS).
Day to day responsibilities will be building lab scale solutions to help scientists accelerate the science they are executing. Using automation for data integration to control devices. EW will be rapidly going from one project to the next and need to be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Ideal Candidate:
  • Experience working in automation
  • Must have good communication and people skills, will be regularly partnering with scientists in a collaborative way
  • Experience in Microsoft Dot Net Development, preferred language is C# (c-sharp), DevOps support consisting of GitLab, Team City, and AWS
  • Able to hit the ground running with this experience on the job.
  • At least BS degree in Computer Science and at least 4 years of work experience

Top Must Have Skill Sets:
  • Microsoft C#, WPF (Windows Presentation Foundation)
  • Visual Studio
  • AWS (Amazon Web Services)

Day to Day Responsibilities:
Flexible on-site/work from home software development, interaction with end-user scientists to understand their requirements and work through iterative sprints.
Basic Qualifications:
Doctorate Degree or Master Degree and 3 years of engineering experience or Bachelor Degree and 5 years of engineering experience or Associate degree and 10 years of engineering experience or high school diploma/GED and 12 years of engineering experience
Why is the Position Open?
Planned Project.
Red Flags:
Candidates without experience described in JD
Inability to speak in detail to experience listed on resume
Interview Process:
Phone screen and then ideally on-site interview.
We invite qualified candidates to sendyour resume torecruiting@3keyconsulting.com. Ifyou decide that you're not interested in pursuing this particular position, please feel free to take a look at the other positions on our websitewww.3keyconsulting.com/careers. You are also welcome to sharethis opportunity withanyone you think might be interested in applying for this role.

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