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Protein Engineering Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

BigHat

Principal, Machine Learning Scientist

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$254 - $290/hr

Maintain an in-depth understanding of the current state-of-the-art in ML-driven protein engineering, both in the literature and at BigHat. * Share your findings at top-tier conferences and publish in ...

Latent Labs

Computational Protein Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $29.50/hr

Working closely with our Lead Computational Protein Designer, you will play a key role amongst a team of scientists designing and engineering proteins for specific functions. This is an opportunity ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProtein Engineering JobsProtein Engineering Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Protein Engineering information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$39.8K

$77.1K

$116.9K

How much do protein engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for protein engineering in Berkeley, CA is $77,112.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $88,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is protein engineering?

A Protein Engineering job involves designing, modifying, and optimizing proteins for specific applications in medicine, biotechnology, and industry. Scientists in this field use computational modeling, directed evolution, and genetic engineering to enhance protein functions. Roles may include developing enzymes for drug production, improving therapeutic proteins, or creating biomaterials. This work often requires expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in protein engineering?

A typical day in Protein Engineering involves designing and conducting experiments to modify protein sequences, expressing and purifying proteins, and analyzing their structure or function using techniques like chromatography and spectroscopy. You will often document your results, troubleshoot unexpected findings, and present data to colleagues or project teams. Collaboration with scientists in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and structural biology is common to ensure robust experimental design and data interpretation. The role may also include literature reviews to stay updated with the latest research and participating in team meetings to plan next steps or project timelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in protein engineering, and why are they important?

To thrive in Protein Engineering, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetic engineering, typically supported by a relevant advanced degree. Experience with laboratory techniques such as PCR, site-directed mutagenesis, protein expression/purification, and analytical tools like mass spectrometry or chromatography is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing novel proteins, collaborating in multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring successful project outcomes in biotech or pharmaceutical environments.

How much do protein engineers make?

Protein engineers typically earn a median salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and laboratory techniques can lead to higher compensation, especially in biotech or pharmaceutical industries.

What do protein engineers do?

Protein engineers design and modify proteins to improve their functions or create new ones, often using techniques like directed evolution and computational modeling. They work in research labs, utilizing tools such as gene editing and structural analysis to develop applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry.

What are popular job titles related to Protein Engineering jobs in Berkeley, CA?

For Protein Engineering jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Protein Engineering jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Protein Engineering jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Protein Engineering jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Protein Engineering job openings:

Protein Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protein Engineering job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,112 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Senior Scientist I, Antibody Engineering

BigHat Biosciences

San Mateo, CA

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The role: BigHat Biosciences is seeking an exceptional individual for a Senior Scientist I role on the antibody engineering & binder generation team to serve as a program team lead of therapeutic programs with external and internal partners, driving antibody discovery, design, optimization, and characterization.
  • Lead cross-functional project teams (including Data Science, AI/ML, Engineering, Protein Sciences, Automation) on the execution of rapid, iterative multi-objective optimization to identify high-value therapeutic antibodies through gold-standard assays.
  • Deeply understand target biology to better design antibodies that meet our candidate profile.
  • Contribute expertise in antibody engineering approaches (including humanization, liability remediation, affinity tuning, format engineering, etc) to generate and optimize novel antibodies that meet design requirements.
  • Collaborate closely with BigHat leadership and other cross-functional team members to ensure a tight linkage between strategy, research, and development components.
  • Lead in-depth data analysis of each design cycle to better leverage experimental and computational approaches to reach our design goals.
  • Effectively and regularly communicate results to key decision makers, the broader BigHat team, and to external partners.
  • Ph.D. in biochemistry, structural biology, protein engineering, or related fields.
  • 5+ years of advanced research experience in an industry setting. 
  • Hands-on protein engineering expertise, including structure-guided design, affinity maturation, stability/developability optimization, and rational or computational approaches to antibody engineering.
  • Experience working with diverse antibody formats such as complex multispecifics, T-cell engagers, antibody fragments, antibody-drug conjugates, etc.
  • Expertise in mammalian cell culture, immunoassay, molecular techniques, cell-based assays, protein expression and characterization (e.g., kinetics, SEC). 
  • Exceptional written, verbal, and visual communication skills. 
  • Experience presenting and communicating strategy and results to internal and external partners.  
  • Scientific track record and publication record.
  • Strong data analysis and interpretation skills. Experience working with agentic software tools is a plus. 
The salary estimated for this position is $160,000 - $185,000 + bonus + options + benefits. Compensation will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Actual compensation will be confirmed in writing at the time of the offer.

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