ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laboratory Automation Engineer Jobs in California

Natera

Laboratory Automation Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, a related scientific field, or equivalent experience. * 2+ years of experience in laboratory automation engineering. * Proficiency in automation and ...

Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.

$110K - $144K/yr

This role requires deep expertise in laboratory automation, engineering principles, scientific workflows, and biopharma research operations, combined with the ability to influence technical direction ...

Predicine, Inc

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

Automation Engineer (Laboratory) - NGS / Liquid Biopsy Predicine is a Silicon Valley-based global precision medicine company committed to developing first- and best-in-class liquid biopsy cancer ...

Predicine, Inc

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

Automation Engineer (Laboratory) - NGS / Liquid Biopsy Predicine is a Silicon Valley-based global precision medicine company committed to developing first- and best-in-class liquid biopsy cancer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaboratory Automation Engineer JobsLaboratory Automation Engineer Jobs in California

Laboratory Automation Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$105.7K

$160.9K

How much do laboratory automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory automation engineer in California is $105,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $121,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Laboratory Automation Engineer do?

A Laboratory Automation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains automated systems used in laboratories to streamline repetitive tasks and improve accuracy. They work with robotics, software, and instrumentation to automate processes such as sample handling, data collection, and analysis. Their role often involves troubleshooting equipment, optimizing workflows, and collaborating with scientists to understand laboratory needs. By automating routine procedures, they help increase throughput and ensure consistent results, allowing researchers to focus on more complex tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering, biology or chemistry, with expertise in automation technologies and laboratory processes, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), programming languages like Python or C#, and automation platforms such as Tecan or Hamilton is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help drive innovation and collaboration. These competencies are crucial to ensure efficient, reliable, and scalable laboratory operations that support scientific discovery and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Laboratory Automation Engineer vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory Automation EngineerLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, automation, or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory procedures
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and maintain automation systems in labsPerform routine lab tests and sample processing
Industry UsageUsed in biotech, pharmaceutical, and research labs for automationCommon in clinical, medical, and research labs for sample handling

The main difference is that Laboratory Automation Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automation systems, requiring engineering skills and certifications. Laboratory Technicians perform routine lab tasks and sample processing, with a focus on laboratory procedures. Both roles are essential in lab operations but differ in technical scope and responsibilities.

How does a Laboratory Automation Engineer typically collaborate with scientists and IT specialists?

Laboratory Automation Engineers regularly work alongside scientists to understand experimental workflows and identify opportunities for automation. They also collaborate with IT specialists to ensure that lab instruments and software integrate seamlessly with data management systems. Effective communication is key, as the engineer must translate scientific requirements into technical solutions while ensuring data integrity and system reliability. This cross-functional teamwork helps optimize lab efficiency and supports scientific discovery.
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs in California? For Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Laboratory Automation Engineer job openings:
Laboratory Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Automation Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,723 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Laboratory Automation Engineer

Laboratory Automation Engineer

Natera

San Carlos, CA

Other

Posted yesterday

Natera rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the development, deployment, optimization, and support of automated systems and software tools (including robotic workcells, liquid handlers, and analytical instruments) in both production and R&D environments. This role focuses on the development of individual workflows and requires a strong foundation in technical troubleshooting. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and drive engineering projects of medium to high complexity with professional guidance.

Primary Responsibilities:

Working under the guidance of their manager and senior members of the organization:

  • Develop new automation to enable production workflows for new assays or enhancements to existing workflows.

  • Design system requirements and implement automation scripts and user interfaces. Develop helper applications (e.g., in C#, Python) for data handling and integration with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

  • Develop systems for diverse environments, including long-term stable production workflows and short-term R&D testing environments.

  • Create User and Functional Requirements documentation for new workflows.

  • Develop, perform, and document test protocols and method qualifications for new workflows on automated systems.

  • Take ownership of assigned projects and provide timely status reports to project leadership and management.

  •  Execute defined development and continuous improvement projects to enhance system performance.

  • Handle complex troubleshooting where the source of the issue is unknown, collaborating with cross-functional teams (e.g., Development, Engineering, Operations, and Data Science) to resolve issues.

  • Provide high-level support to the service and engineering teams.

  • Continuously learn and expand the knowledge base regarding automated equipment, controlling software, and scheduling tools.

  • Adhere to Good Documentation Practices (GDP), lab safety protocols, and all relevant regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, a related scientific field, or equivalent experience.

  •  2+ years of experience in laboratory automation engineering.

  • Proficiency in automation and systems development/integration within the life sciences industry, specifically with robotics and liquid handling platforms.

  • Experience in software programming and data handling (including database work) is highly preferred.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

  • Proven ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects with strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Proficiency in using controlling and scheduling software for laboratory automation.

  • Skills in programming languages such as C# or Python for data handling and system integration.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills, particularly in diagnosing complex issues within integrated hardware/software systems.

  • Understanding of Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and safety/regulatory standards in a laboratory setting.

  • Ability to work effectively within a team-oriented environment and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

  • Flexibility to support rapidly changing requirements in a dynamic R&D environment while maintaining the stability required for production.

What Natera employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply