Process Development Engineer Jobs in California
Process Development Engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, with sustained demand across semiconductor fabrication, biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food and beverage manufacturing at every level from entry-level process technologist to principal engineer. The Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles are the primary hiring centers, where employers like Applied Materials, Genentech, and Edwards Lifesciences maintain large engineering workforces. The most in-demand specialties are process scale-up, cleanroom process development, and bioprocess engineering. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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INTRODUCTION
Synthego is enabling genome engineering at scale with a blend of scientific instrumentation, industrial automation, and data science. Our team of scientists and engineers are putting multidisciplinary fields together to solve problems that no one field can tackle alone. We are searching for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our Chemistry Development team to improve our oligonucleotide manufacturing process and to directly contribute to launching new oligonucleotide products.
As a Process Development Engineer at Synthego, you will have direct responsibility for the development of new techniques for synthesis and purification of RNA and DNA from nanomole to millimole scales. Primary goals include scaling manufacturing processes, improving cost and margin, improving quality of oligonucleotide products, and reducing production times. This role will include developing in both a research and clinical environment, as well as transferring technology into the manufacturing lines. With a focus on the successful introduction and adoption of new technologies in operations, this role will collaborate closely with the hardware, software, operations, quality, and product teams.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
What You'll Do:
- Design, develop, and implement methods to scale oligonucleotide synthesis and purification
- Synthesize, purify and analyze oligonucleotides to specifications, using proprietary and commercial instrumentation
- Analyze data from assays such as UV, chromatograms and mass spectrometry for optimizing experimental conditions and determining root causes of failures
- Work alongside a cross-functional group of Chemists, Engineers, and Scientists to execute developmental processes and collaborate on designed experiments
- Conduct experimentation using automated instrumentation and liquid handling equipment
- Write development protocols and reports and regularly present findings to interdepartmental stakeholders
- Conduct IQ/OQ/PQ for new instrumentation acquired for development projects
- Practice continuous improvement by contributing ideas and suggestions to new and existing processes
- Generate and maintain records or documents in a detailed and consistent manner
- Assist with Quality data management, including writing new or updating Standard Operating Procedures, Batch Records, and Change Control documents
- Work with vendors to acquire reagents, consumables, or instrumentation as needed for development efforts
- Train others on new or updated processes and procedures
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bio-engineering or a similar field
- 2-5 years of industry experience within a research/manufacturing/production environment, preferably in a small company/start-up setting
- Direct experience in the synthesis and analysis of oligonucleotide products
- Experience in data analysis with languages such as Python, SQL
- Understanding of aseptic handling techniques, including liquid handling, pipetting, reagent preparation, and consumables
- Experience using larger scale instrumentation such as HPLCs, oligonucleotide or peptide synthesizers, tangential flow filtration, and/or liquid handlers
- Strong desire to work in a fast-paced, collaborative start-up environment
- Demonstrates strong interpersonal and communication skills (both written and oral)
- Demonstrates ability to work independently and as part of a team to curate and execute development projects
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Nice to Have:
- Deep knowledge of oligonucleotide chemistry or reagent manufacturing, specifically using fluorophores, quenchers, or other oligonucleotide modifiers
- Familiar with qPCR
- Familiar with fluorescence assays and how to create functional tests for newly developed products
- Familiar with biotechnical instrumentation in aspects such as coding new methods, data analysis pipeline, servicing, etc
COMPANY PERKS & BENEFITS
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- 401k Program
- Catered meals on Tuesday and Thursday
- Paid parental leave
- Flexible paid time off
- Education Reimbursement Program
OUR MISSION
Synthego is a pioneering force in the biotechnology industry, dedicated to advancing the frontiers of CRISPR cell and gene therapies through cutting-edge CRISPR technology and expertise. Our mission is to provide unparalleled access to best-in-class CRISPR solutions at scale, empowering agility in life science research and development from discovery through clinical trials. From streamlined approaches to licensing through full technical and regulatory support from our industry-leading experts, Synthego is enabling greater access to CRISPR technology driving to improved outcomes in patient therapeutic treatments.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
See All 98 Process Development Engineer Jobs in California
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Find JobsProcess Development Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Process Development Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Amgen12

- Gilead Sciences9

- Tesla6

- Avid Bioservices4

- Dexcom3

Top Industries Hiring
- Science & Research
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Technology & Software
- Electronics & Hardware
- Manufacturing
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in process development engineer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, or a closely related engineering discipline
- Hands-on experience designing, optimizing, or scaling manufacturing or lab processes
- Proficiency with DOE, statistical process control, and data analysis tools such as JMP or Minitab
- Familiarity with GMP, ISO, or FDA regulatory frameworks relevant to California industries
- Ability to author technical documentation including process specifications, SOPs, and validation protocols
- Experience collaborating cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, and R&D teams in a production environment
Process Development Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a process development engineer in California?
A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, bioengineering, or a related discipline is the standard entry point. California does not require a state-issued license to work as a process development engineer, but engineers who take on broader design responsibility may pursue Professional Engineer licensure through the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. Strong candidates build hands-on lab or process experience during internships with California's semiconductor, biotech, or medical device companies.
How much do process development engineers make in California?
Process development engineers in California earn a median of about $130,850 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $74,950 for the lowest 10% to over $212,130 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire process development engineers in California?
Employers hiring process development engineers in California right now include Amgen, Gilead Sciences, and Tesla, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. California's density of semiconductor fabs, biopharma campuses, and medical device manufacturers means hiring is consistent across the Bay Area, San Diego, and the greater Los Angeles area year-round.
Which California cities have the most process development engineer jobs?
Thousand Oaks, San Diego, and Palo Alto have the most process development engineer openings in California. The Bay Area concentration reflects the region's large semiconductor and biotech employers, while San Diego's strength comes from its established life sciences and medical device cluster, and Los Angeles draws demand from aerospace, specialty chemicals, and food manufacturing companies headquartered in the metro.
Are there remote process development engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Process development engineering is inherently hands-on work tied to lab equipment, pilot plants, and manufacturing lines, so most roles require on-site presence. About 16% of process development engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of October 2026. The portions most likely to be done remotely are data analysis, documentation review, and design-phase modeling work.
How can I get hired as a process development engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is landing a process engineering associate or junior process engineer role through a new-graduate program at a major California manufacturer. Companies like Genentech, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and West Pharma Services run structured new-grad and rotational programs at their California facilities. Candidates coming from adjacent roles such as quality technician, manufacturing engineer, or process technician have a strong footing, and completing a California community college or university co-op paired with a capstone process project gives a clear portfolio edge.
Where can I find and apply to process development engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to process development engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across industries including semiconductors, biopharma, medical devices, and food manufacturing. Find roles that fit your experience and apply directly.
See All 98 Process Development Engineer Jobs in California
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