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Lab Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$82K - $110K/yr

Onsite Clariant is seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to join the Catalyst Research & Development team in Palo Alto, California. In this role, you will support the development of next-generation catalyst ...

Hardware Lab Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Overview Astera Labs Inc. is seeking an experienced and self-driven Hardware Lab Engineer to join our dynamic team in developing world class connectivity products for AI infrastructure. This role ...

We are currently seeking systems engineers with a passion for technology to develop the next generation of smart, AI-powered wearable devices. In this role, you will partner with research scientists ...

Sr. Lab Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$82.60 - $110.14/hr

Onsite Clariant is seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to join the Catalyst Research & Development team in Palo Alto, California. In this role, you will support the development of next‑generation ...

We are currently seeking systems engineers with a passion for technology to develop the next generation of smart, AI-powered wearable devices. In this role, you will partner with research scientists ...

Hardware Lab Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Overview Astera Labs Inc. is seeking an experienced and self-driven Hardware Lab Engineer to join our dynamic team in developing world class connectivity products for AI infrastructure. This role ...

Sr. Lab Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Onsite Clariant is seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to join the Catalyst Research & Development team in Palo Alto, California. In this role, you will support the development of next-generation catalyst ...

As an SI and PI Engineer; you will work collaboratively with other Advantest technology groups ... Experienced with use of relevant lab instruments (high speed oscilloscopes, VNA, TDR, spectrum ...

As an SI and PI Engineer; you will work collaboratively with other Advantest technology groups ... Experienced with use of relevant lab instruments (high speed oscilloscopes, VNA, TDR, spectrum ...

As an SI and PI Engineer; you will work collaboratively with other Advantest technology groups ... Experienced with use of relevant lab instruments (high speed oscilloscopes, VNA, TDR, spectrum ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lab Engineer information

See California salary details

$16

$47

$71

How much do lab engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab 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 is a lab engineer?

A lab engineer is responsible for the IT infrastructure of a laboratory. As a lab engineer, your job duties include conducting technical evaluations of hardware equipment and software, deploying code, troubleshooting and fixing issues, maintaining the server and network systems, and coordinating with scientists, lab technicians, system engineers, and operations staff. You need a bachelor’s degree in a technical field and experience with networking principles, middleware platform, and database connectivity. You can find lab engineer jobs in the science and medical research industry.

What does a lab engineer do?

Lab Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, maintaining, and operating laboratory equipment and systems. They work in various fields such as electronics, chemistry, or biomedical engineering, ensuring experiments and tests are conducted accurately and safely. Lab Engineers also troubleshoot technical issues, calibrate equipment, and often assist researchers or students with their projects. Their work is critical for supporting research and development, quality control, and product testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering or applied sciences, analytical problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with lab instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and standard safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as OSHA or Six Sigma can be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and organizational skills set standout candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate experimentation, reliable results, and a safe, efficient laboratory environment.

What are some common challenges faced by lab engineers and how can they be addressed?

Lab Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions, managing multiple experiments simultaneously, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying organized and maintaining detailed documentation can help manage workload and prevent errors. Regular communication with team members and ongoing training on new technologies are also essential for staying current and effective in the role.

What is the difference between Lab Engineer vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab EngineerLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, science, or related fieldDiploma or associate degree in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and oversee laboratory experiments and equipmentPerform routine tests, prepare samples, and maintain lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageResearch labs, manufacturing, quality controlMedical labs, research facilities, industrial testing

Lab Engineers focus on designing and managing laboratory processes and equipment, often requiring engineering degrees. Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in lab settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What job categories do people searching Lab Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lab Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lab Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,360 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Failure Analysis Lab Engineer

Rootshell Enterprise Technologies, Inc.

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Hello All,
Greetings from Rootshell Inc.
Rootshell Enterprise Technologies Inc. is a recognized provider of professional IT Consulting services in the US. We are actively seeking Failure Analysis Lab Engineer for one of our client, Please share your resume with current location & full contact info
Title:Failure Analysis Lab Engineer
Location:Santa Clara, CA(onsite)
Job Description:
Inventory management
Basic system SW configuration
Maintain lab equipment
HW test setup
Escalation report priority
Daily device logistics
Maintain lab consumables
General lab maintenance
General reporting
Scrap device management
Assist and observe Compliance/Reliability 3rd party lab interaction
Entry level FA
FA rework
Maintain Tech-Ops environmental chamber scheduling and calibration.
Skills:
Must understand Networking protocols for the lab environment.
Familiar with Google Suite,Looker Studio, Spreadsheets and Word documents.
Complete tasks with limited supervision
Basic Technical skills ( PCBA debug, Linux, Debug, Networking)
Self Motivated
Attention to detail
Communication skills
Regards,
Naveen
Naveen@rootshellinc.com