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Life Science Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Backend Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$166K - $231K/yr

As a core member of Artos's engineering team, you'll play a critical role in developing, scaling, and expanding the Artos platform to serve regulatory needs for pharma and life science companies ...

Showing results 41-60

Life Science Engineering information

See California salary details

$22K

$89.6K

$178.2K

How much do life science engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for life science engineering in California is $89,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,471.00 and $125,341.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in life science engineering?

To excel in Life Science Engineering, candidates typically need a background in biological sciences or engineering, combined with experience in laboratory research or bioprocessing. Familiarity with tools such as bioreactors, chromatography systems, and various laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is highly valuable, and certifications like Six Sigma or GMP training can be advantageous. Strong analytical problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills are essential soft skills in this interdisciplinary field. These competencies are crucial for innovating and optimizing processes that bring life science innovations from the lab to real-world applications safely and efficiently.

What is a life science engineering?

A Life Science Engineering job involves applying engineering principles to biological and healthcare-related fields. Professionals in this role work on developing medical devices, pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, biotechnology innovations, and environmental health solutions. They combine knowledge of biology, chemistry, and engineering to design systems that improve human health and sustainability. These jobs can be found in industries like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and biomedical engineering.

What are some common challenges faced in life science engineering, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Life Science Engineering often face challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards, troubleshooting complex bioprocesses, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies. These challenges are met by staying updated on industry best practices, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as research scientists, quality assurance, and manufacturing, and engaging in continuous training. Proactive problem-solving and regular communication help ensure compliance and innovation. Most organizations support engineers with ongoing professional development and robust teamwork, making it easier to address these challenges and advance in the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Life Science Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Life Science Engineering jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Life Science Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,604 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Senior Automation Engineer - Life Sciences

RoviSys

Thousand Oaks, CA

$110K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Works directly with customers in the Life Sciences industry to define functional requirements and design, configure, commission and qualify control systems. Manages customer relationships to ensure long-term account success. 


  • Owns and leads scope of work for Life Sciences projects executed in different platforms. 
  • Functions as Project Manager for small to medium sized projects. Assists Project Manager on larger projects in identifying changes in project scope and developing change orders.
  • Manages a portfolio of projects for Life Science customers and contributes to account strategy/planning.
  • Assists in technology program management in partnership with customers
  • Demonstrates an understanding of the project scope and schedule.
  • Translates functional requirements to system configuration.
  • Designs control systems’ network architectures, control strategies and validation plans in a Life Sciences GxP environment.
  • Serves as a technical contact for customers.
  • Has a firm competency of one or more control systems platforms or industrial processes.
  • Adapts to new technologies by applying learned concepts and functionality.

Day to Day Activities:

  • Interfacing with the clients in design meetings and conference calls
  • Working with the project team leading less experienced engineers and taking directions from the project manager or customer point of contact
  • Oversee the following as part of quality project delivery
    • Programming controllers with Rockwell and Siemens
    • Designing electrical control cabinets and panels
    • Validation of the system configuration to verify functions
  • Travel to client site for project meetings
  • Travel to client site for system commissioning

  • 7-15 years of experience in automation in the Life Sciences industry
  • As a minimum, must be at least proficient with one or more of the following platforms:
    • Rockwell
    • Schneider
    • AVEVA/PI
    • Experience on other control system platforms is a plus.
  • Thorough understanding of control system design, coding and project execution in a GxP environment
  • Self-motivated, excellent communication skills, and enjoy working with people
  • B.S. in Electrical, Chemical, or Computer Engineering or Engineering Technology or related degree

  • Competitive Base Salary: $110,000–$145,000, depending on experience 

  • Performance Bonuses: Bonus structure designed to reward results 

  • Travel Perks: Travel incentives + per-diem packages for field assignments 

  • Full Benefits Package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage 

  • Retirement Ready: 401(k) with company match 

  • Time Off: Generous PTO which includes vacation, holidays, and unlimited personal time 

  • Grow With Us: Ongoing training, certifications, and professional development support