Principal Mechanical Engineer II, Early Research and Development

Pharmaceutical Company; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading life sciences firm in Santa Clara is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to innovate and develop advanced systems for DNA sequencing. The selected candidate will lead projects in mechanical design and manage cross-functional teams. Ideal candidates will have a PhD in Mechanical or Bioengineering, with extensive experience in complex system design, 3D CAD proficiency, and a solid foundation in fluidics. The position emphasizes a hands-on approach and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to next-generation sequencing technology in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• You have deep expertise in designing complex mechanical systems.
• Experience in developing precision temperature control systems is necessary.
• Proficiency in creating manufacturing drawings using CAD tools is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and development of subsystems.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary engineering teams.
• Develop mechanisms for automated reagent loading and clamping.

Skills

Expertise in mechanical engineering

3D CAD software proficiency

Problem-solving skills

Thermal management expertise

Hands-on experience with fluidics systems

Experience in testing pneumatic systems

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering or Bioengineering

Master's degree with 4 years of experience

Bachelor's degree with 7 years of experience

Tools

SolidWorks

Python

LabVIEW

CNC mills/lathens

Job description

We are working to make next-generation sequencing simple and accessible enough for routine use. By accelerating clinical research, streamlining workflows, and expanding assay menus, we are broadening access to genomic data and lowering barriers to adoption. From robust sample isolation and preparation tools to novel sequencing technology and advanced bioinformatics, we are developing differentiated, highly integrated end-to-end solutions for next-generation sequencing, resulting in a sample in, result out workflow.

Our Systems Technology Group, a part of client Sequencing Solutions, is focused on creating and advancing technologies to significantly enhance DNA sequencing workflows. We are seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design, development, characterization, and integration of cutting‑edge sequencing systems.

This is a hands‑on role for a multidisciplinary expert focused on solving the core mechanical challenges at the heart of our next‑generation platforms. You will be responsible for concepting, designing, building, and testing novel electro‑mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, and fluidic solutions that ensure the ultimate performance, reliability, and longevity of our systems.

The Principal Mechanical Engineer will play a vital role in driving innovation for our next‑generation instrumentation. We are looking for someone that exhibits a high degree of motivation, independence, and resourcefulness to help us develop solutions to novel DNA Sequencing and automation challenges in a fast‑paced and collaborative environment.

Core Responsibilities

• You will lead the end-to-end mechanical design and development of mechanical sub-systems including electro‑mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, and thermal components.
• You will collaborate with engineers from other disciplines (electrical, consumables, materials) to define and manage all critical technical interfaces for your module.
• You will develop novel mechanisms for automated reagent and flow cell loading, clamping, and sealing, ensuring reliability over repeated use.
• You will architect and design thermal control systems, including the specification and integration of heating/cooling elements, sensors, condensation control, and heat management.
• You will partner with internal and external simulation experts to guide and validate CFD, thermal, and optical models, using empirical data to refine designs.
• You will serve as the primary technical expert for your sub‑system during integration, verification, and troubleshooting activities, working directly with the Systems Integration team.
• You will lead cross‑functional design reviews, driving alignment and resolving technical trade‑offs between mechanical design, consumables, materials, and assay requirements.
• You will drive the technical execution for sub‑systems, manage timelines for your design deliverables, and contribute to the overall project plan.
• You will create and maintain all design documentation for your sub‑systems, including detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications.
• You will contribute to the technical strategy for the future integrated system, providing data‑driven recommendations on architecture and technology choices based on your sub‑system's performance.
• You will present technical progress, data, and design trade‑offs to the broader project team and key stakeholders, clearly articulating the rationale and impact of engineering decisions.

A cover letter is required for this application. Please outline your relevant experience and explain why you are interested in this role and our company.

Who You Are:

(Required)

• You have a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related discipline with at least 3 years of relevant industry experience; or a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related discipline with at least 4 years of relevant industry experience; or a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related discipline with at least 7 years of relevant industry experience.
• You have demonstrated deep, hands‑on expertise in the design, development, and testing of complex mechanical, electro‑mechanical, and pneumatic systems, preferably for life science or diagnostic instrumentation.
• You have demonstrated hands‑on expertise in thermal management and the design of precision temperature control systems.
• You have experience developing fluidics systems and their interfaces including pumps, valves, tubing, sensors, and material selection.
• You possess strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for detailed design and the creation of manufacturing drawings.
• You have expertise designing components for a variety of manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, injection molding, 3D printing).
• You are a creative and resourceful problem‑solver, with the ability to troubleshoot complex issues at the interface of hardware, software, and chemistry.
• You are proficient with common machine shop tools, as well as test and measurement equipment; proficient with rapid prototyping technology such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC mills/lathens, etc; and
• You have a demonstrated level of proficiency with Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools for device control and data acquisition.

Preferred:

• You have demonstrated the ability to lead technical projects and mentor junior engineers, providing clear guidance and delegating tasks to achieve project goals.
• You have experience using simulation tools (CFD, FEA) to guide design decisions.
• You have previously worked on the development of next‑generation sequencing (NGS) or other genomics instrumentation.
• You have experience working in a regulated product development environment
• You have demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to communicate technical knowledge in a clear and understandable manner, especially to non‑experts; you excel at problem‑solving skills and the ability to work under ambiguous situations.
• You have excellent organizational skills, including the ability to efficiently evaluate, prioritize and handle multiple changing projects and priorities; you complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner.

Onsite position

Interview process: 1. phone 2. In‑person Interviews and Presentation (Candidate would need to do a bio presentation of skill sets etc.)