1

Lab Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Support Engineer Job Code: 40451 Job Location: Yorba Linda, CA Job Schedule: 4/10 Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week L3Harris is currently seeking to hire for the position of Lab Support ...

Lab Robotics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$175K - $235K/yr

As a Lab Robotics Engineer at Plasmidsaurus, you will play a crucial role in automating and optimizing our sample processing pipeline. You'll be directly responsible for developing, deploying, and ...

Utilize lab test equipment and Archer's simulation environment to set up test cases, validate system requirements, and investigate issues * Lead collaborative efforts with aircraft system engineers ...

Our PD Materials Engineering team is dedicated to creating and refining these materials. We partner ... Description As the PCB Materials Lab Manager, you'll provide daily oversight to a team of ...

next page

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 Jul 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 are Lab Engineers and what do they 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 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 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 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 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:

EPIC Lab Operations Industrial Engineer

Amat

Santa Clara, CA

$133K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Salary:

$133,500.00 - $183,500.00

Location:

Santa Clara,CA

You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

Industrial Engineer - EPIC Lab Operations & Information Systems

Overview
We are seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer to define and continuously improve the operational model for the EPIC Center. This role will establish how lab operations run day-to-day, ensure alignment with business objectives, and drive ongoing measurement and optimization of lab services. In addition to process engineering, the role will manage the business side of lab information systems-collecting requirements, defining solutions, and overseeing roadmaps for internal systems and related projects.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design the EPIC Lab Operations Model: Develop workflows, service definitions, and role-based task mapping to ensure efficient and scalable operations.
  • Process Analysis & Optimization: Identify inefficiencies in lab workflows and implement improvements to reduce cycle time and enhance service quality.
  • Performance Measurement: Define KPIs and success metrics for lab operations; establish systems for continuous monitoring and reporting.
  • Data & Systems Integration: Understand lab data domains and digital systems (e.g., MES, scheduling, asset tracking) to propose solutions and requirements that support operational goals.
  • Information Systems Management:
    • Gather and document business requirements for lab operations systems.
    • Define functional specifications and collaborate with IT and engineering teams.
    • Develop and maintain system roadmaps aligned with operational priorities.
    • Oversee projects related to lab information systems, ensuring timely delivery and stakeholder alignment.
  • Continuous Improvement: Use data insights to refine processes, improve resource utilization, and enhance customer experience.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as a liaison between lab operations and enabling functions such as Facilities, EHS, Security, IT, and AIx to ensure seamless integration.
  • Documentation & Standards: Create and maintain detailed process documentation, SOPs, and operational guidelines.
  • Change Management: Lead adoption of new processes and tools through stakeholder engagement, training, and feedback loops.
  • Integrate 6S principles into endtoend lab workflow design, ensuring workplace organization, visual controls, and standardization are embedded in all operational models.
  • Partner with Lab Ops, Facilities, Engineering, and EHS to define 6Saligned layouts, material flows, and workstation standards that enhance safety, reduce waste, and improve cycle time.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience in industrial engineering, operations management, or lab operations within the semiconductor industry.
  • Proven ability to model, analyze, and optimize complex business processes.
  • Familiarity with lab data domains and operational systems; ability to define system requirements and collaborate with IT teams.
  • Experience managing business requirements and roadmaps for enterprise or lab information systems.
  • Strong knowledge of operational metrics, continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma), and data analytics.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Skills

  • Knowledge of 6S / Lean methodologies and ability to apply visual management, standardization, and wastereduction concepts in lab environments
  • Ability to analyze workspace layouts and material flows through a 6S lens, identifying waste, safety risks, and optimization opportunities
  • Experience developing or supporting 6S audit structures, sustainment systems, or visual management tools
  • Skilled in translating 6S findings into operational requirements, digital system needs, or continuousimprovement roadmaps

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Assignee / Regular

Travel:

Yes, 10% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.