1

Laboratory Automation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Automation Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Are you passionate about advancing scientific discovery through laboratory automation and innovative technologies? IFF is a global leader in enzymes, ingredients, and health & biosciences.

$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 ...

  • PTO

This role will define and execute the multi-year roadmap for automation, robotics, integrated laboratory systems, and digital workflows, ensuring solutions are scalable, compliant, and aligned with ...

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

Laboratory Automation information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do laboratory automation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in laboratory automation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Laboratory Automation, you need a solid background in laboratory sciences, automation technology, and process optimization, often supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), robotics, automated analyzers, and data analysis software is frequently required, and certifications like CLIA or specialized vendor training can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in dynamic lab settings and collaborate across teams. These skills ensure laboratory processes run efficiently, accurately, and safely, enabling high-throughput results critical for research and diagnostics.

What does a laboratory automation professional do?

A Laboratory Automation professional typically oversees the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated lab equipment and robotics. Daily tasks often include programming and calibrating instruments, ensuring data integrity, optimizing workflows, and supporting scientists and researchers with technical issues. Collaboration is key, as you’ll regularly coordinate with lab technicians, IT staff, and researchers to implement new automation solutions and improve laboratory efficiency. This role also involves routine documentation and reporting to maintain compliance with industry standards. Staying proactive and resourceful is crucial for identifying and resolving potential system bottlenecks and ensuring smooth laboratory operations.

What is a laboratory automation?

A Laboratory Automation job involves designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems to streamline laboratory workflows. Professionals in this field work with robotics, software, and instrumentation to improve efficiency, accuracy, and reproducibility in experiments. They collaborate with scientists, engineers, and IT specialists to develop solutions for high-throughput screening, data management, and sample processing. This role is essential in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and clinical diagnostics, where automation enhances research and testing capabilities.

What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Automation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Laboratory Automation job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Automation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Senior Lab Automation Engineer

Revolution Medicines

Redwood City, CA • Hybrid

$127K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Opportunity:

As a member of the Automation Engineering team, you will contribute to the team with accountability for the following:

  • Develop and maintain automation methods using laboratory control platforms such as Tecan FluentControl, Hamilton Venus, Agilent VWorks, HighRes Cellario Scheduler, and Beckman Coulter Tempo/Echo.

  • Demonstrated experience independently developing, deploying, and supporting complex laboratory automation workflows.

  • Experience leading technical projects involving laboratory automation platforms from requirements gathering through production implementation.

  • Provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and maintenance for automated laboratory instrumentation and integrated automation systems to ensure reliable day-to-day operations.

  • Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, software, and system integration issues to minimize equipment downtime and maintain operational continuity.

  • Perform routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance activities, including equipment upgrades, modifications, and validation support.

  • Execute installation, testing, and validation activities to verify equipment performance, accuracy, reliability, and laboratory stability.

  • Coordinate issue triage with vendors and external service providers while maintaining accurate equipment records, maintenance logs, and validation documentation.

  • Train end users on laboratory automation systems and contribute to process improvements, operational initiatives, and innovations that enhance laboratory efficiency.

Required Experience, Skills, and Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, scientific discipline, or a related field.

  • 7+ years of relevant experience including service or support role.

  • Experience with laboratory instrumentation and automation systems.

  • Good communication and organizational skills.

Preferred Skills:

  • Knowledge of discovery chemistry lab workflows including compound management and HTS.

  • Extensive experience developing, troubleshooting, and optimizing liquid handling platforms including Tecan Fluent, Hamilton STAR/Vantage, Echo, and integrated laboratory automation systems.

  • Extensive experience developing production-ready automation methods using Tecan FluentControl, Hamilton VENUS, HighRes Cellario Scheduler, Agilent VWorks, or comparable automation software platforms.

  • Experience evaluating automation technologies and influencing laboratory automation strategy.

  • Familiarity with source control, scripting (Python, C#, or similar), and software engineering best practices for laboratory automation.

#LI-Hybrid  #LI-LN1