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Laboratory Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Who is Elve? Elve, Inc is a dynamic deep-tech startup based in Davis, CA, transforming the ... Laboratory * Machine shop * Warehouse * Office What it's like to work at Elve We are a small team ...

Who is Elve? Elve, Inc is a dynamic deep-tech startup based in Davis, CA, transforming the ... Laboratory * Machine shop * Warehouse * Office What it's like to work at Elve We are a small team ...

Who is Elve? Elve, Inc is a dynamic deep-tech startup based in Davis, CA, transforming the ... Laboratory * Machine shop * Warehouse * Office What it's like to work at Elve We are a small team ...

Support startup, commissioning, and optimization of new mechanical equipment and systems. * Monitor ... Ensure laboratory environments meet performance standards for specialized ventilation, cleanroom ...

Showing results 41-60

Laboratory Startup information

What is a laboratory startup?

A Laboratory Startup is a company or organization in its early stages that focuses on scientific research, innovation, and the development of new technologies or products within a laboratory setting. These startups are often founded by scientists or researchers and may work on anything from biotech and pharmaceuticals to chemical engineering or diagnostics. Laboratory Startups typically face unique challenges, such as securing funding, acquiring specialized equipment, hiring skilled personnel, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Their goal is often to bring a novel scientific discovery or product to market, either independently or through partnerships with larger companies.

What are some common challenges faced when setting up a new laboratory, and how can they be effectively addressed?

When starting up a new laboratory, professionals often encounter challenges such as ensuring regulatory compliance, sourcing the appropriate equipment, and establishing robust safety protocols. Coordinating with vendors, navigating procurement delays, and setting up laboratory information management systems can also be complex. To address these, it’s essential to develop a detailed project plan, involve key stakeholders early, and consult with experienced laboratory managers or consultants. Open communication with team members and regular progress reviews help keep the setup on track and ensure a smooth launch.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in laboratory startup roles, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Laboratory Startup role, you need expertise in laboratory operations, project management, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in a scientific field and experience in lab environments. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), facility setup procedures, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating teams and navigating the challenges of launching a new lab. These competencies ensure that the laboratory is established efficiently, safely, and in compliance with industry standards, enabling successful research or diagnostic operations.

What is the difference between Laboratory Startup vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory StartupLaboratory Technician
CredentialsOften requires a degree in science or engineering, sometimes with entrepreneurial experienceTypically requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in a laboratory science or related field
Work EnvironmentStartup environment, often in labs focused on innovation, research, or product developmentEstablished labs, research facilities, or clinical settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by new biotech, pharma, or research startupsCommon in hospitals, research institutes, and industrial labs

In summary, a Laboratory Startup involves launching new lab ventures with a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, often requiring a mix of scientific and business skills. A Laboratory Technician typically works within established labs, performing routine testing and experiments based on existing protocols. While both roles require scientific knowledge, the startup role emphasizes building new operations, whereas the technician role focuses on supporting ongoing research or production.

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Startup jobs in California?

For Laboratory Startup jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Startup jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Startup jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Startup jobs?

Cities in California with the most Laboratory Startup job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Startup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Fluids Engineer - Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion

Approach Venture LLC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Job description

Fluids Systems Engineer - Develop Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion & Fluid Systems
Los Angeles, CA | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a seed-stage space technology startup developing advanced spacecraft and propulsion systems for next-generation orbital missions. As a Fluids Systems Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of critical fluid systems supporting both flight hardware and ground development infrastructure. This is a highly hands-on engineering role with ownership across the full product lifecycle, from system architecture and first-principles analysis through hardware development, testing, and qualification. You will work across spacecraft, propulsion, cryogenic, and thermal fluid systems while collaborating closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver reliable, flight-ready hardware.
About Us
We are an early-stage aerospace company developing advanced spacecraft and in-space propulsion technologies for commercial and government missions. Our engineering team is building highly integrated propulsion, fluid, and energy systems that enable more capable spacecraft while solving complex engineering challenges through rapid design, testing, and iteration. Engineers have broad ownership, move quickly, and directly influence both product development and company growth.
Job Duties
  • Lead the architecture, design, and integration of spacecraft, propulsion, and ground support fluid systems.
  • Develop fluid system schematics, P&IDs, component layouts, and system interface definitions.
  • Design and size fluid components including tanks, valves, regulators, tubing, manifolds, pumps, instrumentation, and associated hardware.
  • Support the development of cryogenic fluid systems including storage, transfer, thermal management, conditioning, and boil-off mitigation.
  • Perform fluid dynamics, thermal, and pressurization analyses to guide engineering decisions.
  • Develop analytical models, engineering calculations, and simulations using appropriate engineering tools.
  • Create engineering drawings, assembly procedures, interface documentation, and test plans.
  • Plan, execute, and troubleshoot laboratory and integrated propulsion system testing.
  • Analyze test results and implement design improvements through structured engineering reviews.
  • Lead system safety evaluations, hazard assessments, and safe operating procedures for pressurized and hazardous fluid systems.
  • Collaborate with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and test engineering teams throughout development.

Qualifications
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 2+ years of experience designing, analyzing, building, or testing fluid, propulsion, cryogenic, thermal, or mechanical systems.
  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, compressible flow, and mechanical system design.
  • Hands-on experience designing or integrating pressurized fluid systems and associated hardware.
  • Experience developing engineering calculations and simulations using tools such as Python, MATLAB, CAD, FEA, CFD, or equivalent.
  • Strong mechanical design experience including CAD, GD&T, material selection, manufacturability, and assembly.
  • Familiarity with high-pressure systems, hazardous fluids, leak testing, cleanliness standards, and safe laboratory operations.
  • Ability to solve complex engineering problems using first-principles thinking.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment with significant technical ownership.

Preferred Experience
  • Experience developing spacecraft propulsion or fluid systems.
  • Background with cryogenic storage, transfer, or thermal management systems.
  • Experience designing propulsion feed systems or pressurized fluid networks.
  • Knowledge of hydrogen, oxygen, or other specialty fluid systems.
  • Experience supporting prototype development, environmental testing, and hardware qualification.
  • Startup or early-stage aerospace product development experience.

Why Join Us
  • Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
  • Equity participation through stock options.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) program.
  • Paid time off.
  • Opportunity to own critical spacecraft fluid systems from concept through flight.
  • Significant technical ownership while working alongside experienced aerospace engineers.
  • Career growth within a rapidly expanding seed-stage space company.

Compensation Details
$125,000 - $175,000