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Metabolic Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Optics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

We are building systems that don't - by combining engineered metabolic environments, sensing, control, and software into tightly integrated products that operate reliably over long time horizons.

Optics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

We are building systems that don't -- by combining engineered metabolic environments, sensing, control, and software into tightly integrated products that operate reliably over long time horizons.

Optics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$152K - $196K/yr

We are building systems that don't - by combining engineered metabolic environments, sensing, control, and software into tightly integrated products that operate reliably over long time horizons.

Optics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

We are building systems that don't -- by combining engineered metabolic environments, sensing, control, and software into tightly integrated products that operate reliably over long time horizons.

Optics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

We are building systems that don't -- by combining engineered metabolic environments, sensing, control, and software into tightly integrated products that operate reliably over long time horizons.

IT Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$96 - $125/hr

Virta Health is on a mission to reverse metabolic disease in one billion people. Current treatment ... Partner with Engineering and Security teams to roll out robust Privileged Access Management (PAM ...

New

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$114.50 - $148/hr

Virta Health is on a mission to reverse metabolic disease in one billion people. Current treatment ... on engineering. * Ensure member, client, and operational data is accurate, consistent, and ...

New

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$115 - $148/hr

Virta Health is on a mission to reverse metabolic disease in one billion people. Current treatment ... on engineering. * Ensure member, client, and operational data is accurate, consistent, and ...

New

... metabolic coaching, and biosensor integrations to consumers who depend on it every day. You will ... Bachelors degree in computer science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline. 5+ years of ...

Showing results 21-40

Metabolic Engineering information

See California salary details

$30.4K

$90.4K

$165K

How much do metabolic engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for metabolic engineering in California is $90,447.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,305.00 and $117,997.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is metabolic engineering?

A Metabolic Engineering job involves modifying and optimizing the metabolic pathways of microorganisms or cells to improve the production of valuable chemicals, biofuels, pharmaceuticals, or other bioproducts. Professionals in this field use synthetic biology, genetic engineering, and computational modeling to enhance biological systems for industrial or medical applications. They work in biotechnology companies, research institutions, or pharmaceutical firms, often collaborating with biologists, chemists, and engineers.

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

To thrive in Metabolic Engineering, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetic engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments (HPLC, GC-MS), laboratory automation systems, and software for metabolic modeling (such as MATLAB or COBRA Toolbox) is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and excellent communication help in effectively collaborating and translating scientific findings into practical applications. These combined skills are essential for driving innovative research and successful project outcomes in a multidisciplinary environment.

What are some common challenges faced by metabolic engineers in their daily work?

Metabolic engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing microbial strains for desired product yield, troubleshooting unexpected metabolic bottlenecks, and adapting experiments in response to variable biological systems. Balancing benchwork with data analysis and documentation requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Working closely with teams in synthetic biology, fermentation, and process optimization is common, so communication and collaboration are key. Addressing these challenges is a core part of the role and provides valuable hands-on experience while fostering professional growth in the field.

Infographic showing various Metabolic Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,447 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher Position: Flexible Biosensor and Wearable Bioelectronics

Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation

Woodland Hills, CA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview
The Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation develops personalized therapeutic solutions using advanced micro- and nanoscale technologies to address major challenges in human health. The Institute works closely with clinicians, engineers, and industry partners to translate biomaterials, bioelectronics, microfluidics, and biosensing technologies into clinically relevant platforms.
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join an interdisciplinary team developing wearable sweat biosensors for closed-loop obesity management. The project focuses on creating a wearable physiological feedback sensor module that can be integrated with a vagus nerve stimulation-based obesity management system. The first-generation sensor platform will focus on sweat lactate, pH, and ionic strength as metabolic and contextual readouts to support future closed-loop neuromodulation and personalized metabolic monitoring.
The successful candidate will contribute to sensor design, microfluidic sweat collection, electrochemical biosensing, wearable device integration, benchtop validation, data analysis, and prototype development.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct research on wearable biosensors for metabolic and physiological monitoring.
  • Integrate biosensors with flexible substrates, portable electronics, and data acquisition systems.
  • Perform calibration, analytical validation, interference testing, stability testing, and repeatability studies in artificial sweat and relevant biological samples.
  • Analyze sensor data and develop methods for signal correction, contextual interpretation, and quality control.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including engineers, clinicians, neuroscientists, industry partners, and regulatory or translational collaborators.
  • Prepare technical reports, invention disclosures, manuscripts, presentations, and grant-related materials.
  • Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and partner-facing technical updates.

Required Qualifications
  • PhD. in Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, or a related discipline.
  • Strong research experience in wearable sensors, electrochemical sensing, microfluidics, bioelectronics, or related areas.
  • Demonstrated ability to design experiments, collect data, analyze results, and troubleshoot complex technical problems.
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to an interdisciplinary team.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to meet project milestones in a fast-paced translational research environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience developing electrochemical biosensors with various modalities.
  • Experience with wearable biosensors, skin-interfaced devices, or physiological monitoring systems.
  • Experience with microfluidic device design, soft lithography, laser cutting, flexible materials, adhesive patches, or wearable device fabrication.
  • Experience with flexible electronics, portable potentiostat, wireless readout, signal acquisition, or embedded sensor systems.
  • Experience with biological sample testing, sensor calibration, interference testing, antifouling strategies, and drift correction.
  • Experience with data processing, signal quality analysis, Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Arduino, or related tools.
  • Interest in bioelectronic medicine, closed-loop therapeutic systems, neuromodulation, metabolic health, or digital health technologies.
  • Experience working with translational research projects, industry collaborations, prototype development, or milestone-driven R&D programs.

Application Materials
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Research statement (1-3 pages).
  • Contact information for three professional references.