Resident Cryogenic Engineer

Bluefors Oy; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Bluefors Oy is seeking a Resident Cryogenic Engineer to provide technical support at a key customer location in Seattle. You will be responsible for installing, commissioning, and maintaining advanced cryogenic systems, diagnosing complex system issues, and ensuring safe operations. Ideal candidates hold a Master’s degree in physics or engineering, have hands-on cryogenic experience, and exhibit strong troubleshooting skills. The position offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in a collaborative environment while fostering professional growth.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in physics or engineering, or Bachelor’s degree with at least two years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience with cryogenic refrigerator systems, including installation and maintenance.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across cryogenic, vacuum, and control subsystems.

Responsibilities

• Act as the on–site technical representative, providing daily engineering support.
• Lead commissioning and performance optimization of dilution refrigerator systems.
• Diagnose and resolve complex system–level issues.

Skills

Hands-on experience with cryogenic refrigerator systems

Strong troubleshooting skills

Effective communication skills

Proficient in reading technical documentation

Proactive mindset

Education

Master’s degree in physics or engineering

Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of relevant industry or R&D experience

Tools

3D CAD tools (Creo, SolidWorks)

Vacuum systems

Machine shop tools

Job description

We are looking for a Resident Cryogenic Engineer to join our team at Bluefors, based on-site at a key customer location in the Seattle area. In this role, you will serve as the primary technical representative, supporting the daily operation, commissioning, and long-term performance of advanced cryogenic systems used in cutting‑edge research and R&D. This is a unique opportunity to work hands‑on with highly specialized technology while collaborating closely with both customers and internal engineering teams. Interested? Keep reading!

Your tasks will include acting as the on‑site Bluefors technical representative, providing day‑to‑day engineering support at the customer location. You will install, commission, operate, upgrade, and maintain cryogenic systems throughout their lifecycle, including leading commissioning and performance optimization of dilution refrigerator systems. You will diagnose and resolve complex system‑level issues related to gas handling, instrumentation, vacuum integrity, and control logic, while executing preventive, planned, and corrective maintenance to ensure system reliability. In addition, you will maintain and troubleshoot high‑performance vacuum systems, including helium leak detection and remediation, and ensure all systems are operated safely in accordance with established procedures. You will document system status, service activities, and technical findings, and collaborate closely with internal Bluefors teams to support coordination between engineering, production, and service functions. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

We are looking for a candidate with a Master’s degree in physics or engineering, or a Bachelor’s degree with at least two years of relevant industry or R&D experience. You should have hands‑on experience with cryogenic refrigerator systems, including installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance, as well as familiarity with dilution refrigerators, high vacuum systems, and related equipment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong troubleshooting skills across cryogenic, vacuum, and control subsystems, along with a structured and analytical approach to problem‑solving. Proficiency in reading technical documentation and working with engineering tools is expected, along with clear and effective written and verbal communication skills. You should be comfortable working independently in a customer‑embedded environment while maintaining alignment with internal teams, and demonstrate professionalism, adaptability, and a strong commitment to safety.

We also appreciate candidates with experience using 3D CAD tools such as Creo or SolidWorks, as well as familiarity with design‑for‑manufacturability and installation best practices. Experience with root cause analysis, thermal and mechanical analysis methods, and the use of machine shop tools such as mills and lathes will help you stand out. A proactive mindset, combined with the ability to identify system improvements and contribute to continuous improvement efforts, is highly valued. Candidates who demonstrate strong customer focus, technical curiosity, and alignment with our values—such as attention to detail, teamwork, and continuous learning—will thrive in this role.

We offer you an interesting, challenging, and responsible position, along with the support of a highly skilled and growing organization. This is an excellent opportunity for your professional growth in a dynamic, enthusiastic, and collaborative team where we work together and support each other. We foster a multicultural work environment with room to grow, where you can use your potential and further develop your skills.

Salary range: $100,000 – $130,000 annually

Main Responsibilities include the following:

• Act as the on‑site Bluefors technical representative, providing day‑to‑day engineering support
• Install, commission, operate, upgrade, and maintain cryogenic systems throughout their lifecycle
• Lead commissioning and performance optimization of dilution refrigerator systems
• Diagnose and resolve complex system‑level issues related to gas handling, instrumentation, vacuum systems, and control logic
• Execute preventive, planned, and corrective maintenance activities
• Maintain and troubleshoot high‑performance vacuum systems, including helium leak detection and remediation
• Ensure safe system operation in accordance with company and customer procedures
• Document system status, service actions, and technical findings
• Coordinate with internal engineering, production, and service teams
• Perform additional duties as assigned

What We Expect from You

• Master’s degree in physics or engineering, or Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of relevant industry or R&D experience
• 1+ year of hands‑on experience with cryogenic refrigerator systems
• 2–4 years of experience working with 4K and mK cryogenic systems, including installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance
• Familiarity with dilution refrigerators, helium leak detection, high vacuum systems, RGAs, turbo‑molecular pumps, and cryogenic handling equipment
• Strong troubleshooting skills across cryogenic, vacuum, and control systems
• Ability to read and interpret technical documentation and engineering drawings
• Structured and analytical approach to problem‑solving
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently in a customer‑facing, on‑site environment
• Professional, customer‑oriented presence
• Ability to align with company Leadership Principles and workplace competencies
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken

We Also Appreciate

• Experience with 3D CAD tools such as Creo or SolidWorks
• Familiarity with design‑for‑manufacturability and installation best practices
• Experience with root cause analysis and thermal/mechanical analysis methods
• Hands‑on experience with machine shop tools such as mills and lathes
• A proactive approach to identifying and implementing process improvements
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• A collaborative, team‑oriented mindset
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, customer‑facing environment
• A positive attitude and strong alignment with company values, including safety, diversity, and organizational effectiveness

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, and use hand and finger dexterity. The employee is regularly required to see, talk, and hear. The employee may occasionally stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee will frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Work Environment

This role operates in both office and customer site environments, including laboratory and manufacturing settings. The position interacts with internal and external customers in a professional and courteous manner while maintaining confidentiality as needed. Standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and copiers are used regularly. In technical environments, the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical parts and occasionally to humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, heat, cold, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The noise level is usually moderately loud, and required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bluefors Cryocooler Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of disability status, veteran status, or any other New York State or federally protected characteristic.