Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Nuclera; Billerica (MA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative biotech company is seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to drive the optimization of manufacturing processes for cutting-edge bioprinting technology. This role involves collaborating with R&D and engineering teams to enhance manufacturing efficiency and scalability. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in operations management, a strong background in engineering, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to making biology accessible through groundbreaking technology, while enjoying competitive benefits and a supportive work environment that fosters professional growth.

Benefits

Incentive stock options

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) retirement plan

25-day annual holiday allowance

Investment in professional development

Fresh fruit, tea, coffee, and snacks

Organized summer and other events

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience in engineering with hands-on operations.
• Experience with team management and process optimization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the optimization of cartridge manufacturing processes and enhance efficiency.
• Develop and validate manufacturing processes for new products.

Skills

Operations Management

Data Analysis

Team Management

Process Optimization

SOP Writing

Hands-on Experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Applied Sciences

Advanced degree in Engineering/Science

Tools

PDM Systems

PLM Systems

ERP Systems

Metrology Tools

Excel

Job description

Nuclera is a venture-backed, founder-driven biotech company headquartered in Cambridge, UK with significant operations in Billerica, MA. The company’s mission is to make biology accessible to everyone through desktop bioprinting. We are beginning this mission by making proteins accessible through the launch and ongoing development of our eProtein desktop bioprinting platform. eProtein promises to be a breakthrough protein printing technology that brings rapid prototyping to the life science benchtop and accelerates the drug discovery process.

Nuclera is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and hands-on Lead Manufacturing Engineer to lead the optimization and further development of the cartridge manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will optimize scalability of thin film coating processes and final device assembly in close collaboration with R&D, engineering, product development, and technical operations teams. The role will involve developing key metrics and documentation, as well as conducting operational qualification, troubleshooting, and resolving manufacturing issues. The successful candidate will drive continuous process improvement efforts to maximize yield.

This role will suit an individual who has a strong drive and experience working in a device manufacturing environment with a track record of execution and teamwork.

About the role:

• Develop, implement, verify, and validate manufacturing processes in support of process flow and value stream mapping improvements for existing products, and in support of business development initiatives with customers creating new products.
• Lead verification and validation exercises to support launch of commercial manufacturing.
• Enhance manufacturing process flow and floor layout to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Establish standard work and standard equipment operating parameters.
• Lead the transfer and implementation of thin film deposition processes and device assembly techniques from R&D to manufacturing.
• Develop Capital Equipment Proposal.
• Lead the effort of scaling all aspects of cartridge manufacturing.
• Support development and growth of the members of the manufacturing team.
• Play a key role in developing the right Product/BOM structure for the manufacturing process in our ERP system.
• Support change management of design and manufacturing documentation in our product data management (PDM) system.
• Qualify new pilot manufacturing equipment, support optimizing process recipes, and ramp-up to production volumes.
• Effectively communicate technical details with other functions/departments in prototyping, testing, and design improvement by embracing sound experimental methods and taking a hands-on approach in the laboratory and assembly line.
• Responsible for achieving device manufacturing and engineering (M&E) operational objectives in support of process validation, execution, product launch, quality, cost, and safety.

Essential:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Applied Sciences with 10+ years relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with operations.
• At least 2 years of team management experience within manufacturing functions.
• Deep understanding of writing effective SOPs, process specifications, and capturing all information about the manufacturing flow coupled with working knowledge of PDM, PLM, and ERP systems.
• Familiarity with sensors, instrumentation, and controls used in the process industry.
• Data analysis skills, ability to manipulate data using Excel or other software to extract meaningful information.
• Good work ethic and attitude with a desire to learn new skills and ability to work efficiently in a startup environment.

Desirable:

• Advanced degree in Engineering/Science.
• Experience with development and manufacturing of digital microfluidics devices, ideally based on thin film technology.
• Extensive experience with Good Documentation Practice and change management through PDM, PLM, and ERP systems.
• Demonstrate ability to work with internal production or external vendors, and preferably CMOs.
• Expertise in process optimization using DOE’s, and in structured problem-solving.
• Knowledge of the standard materials set used in the semiconductor industry.
• Experience with metrology tools for the characterization of optical and structural properties of thin films.
• Demonstrates passion and taking initiative while being flexible to the technical needs of your teammates, department, and company.

What we offer:

In addition to competitive salaries, we offer a range of benefits including:

• Incentive stock options
• A comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• 25-day annual holiday allowance
• Investment in professional development and learning
• Fresh fruit, tea, coffee, and snacks in the office
• Organized summer and other events for staff