Resident Cryogenic Engineer

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

Job summary

Bluefors is seeking a Resident Cryogenic Engineer to join their team in Seattle, serving as the primary technical representative for advanced cryogenic systems. Responsibilities include installation, operation, and maintenance of 4K systems. Candidates must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field and hands-on experience with cryogenic technologies. The role requires strong troubleshooting skills and a professional, customer-oriented presence. Salary range: $100,000 – $130,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in physics or engineering, or Bachelor’s degree with at least two years of relevant industry experience.
• 1+ year of hands-on experience with cryogenic refrigerator systems.
• Experience with 4 K and m K cryogenic systems, including installation and maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Act as the on-site technical representative, providing day-to-day support.
• Install, commission, maintain cryogenic systems throughout their lifecycle.
• Diagnose and resolve complex system-level issues.

Skills

Troubleshooting skills

Strong written and verbal communication

Customer-oriented presence

Analytical problem-solving

Hands-on experience with cryogenic systems

Education

Master’s degree in physics or engineering

Bachelor’s degree with industry experience

Tools

3D CAD tools (Creo, SolidWorks)

Cryogenic handling equipment

High-vacuum systems

Helium leak detection

Job description

About the Role

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.

Main Responsibilities

• Act as the on‑site Bluefors technical representative, providing day‑to‑day engineering support at the customer location.
• Install, commission, operate, upgrade, and maintain cryogenic systems throughout their lifecycle.
• Lead commissioning and performance optimisation of dilution refrigerator systems.
• Diagnose and resolve complex system‑level issues related to gas handling, instrumentation, vacuum integrity, 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 activities, and technical findings.
• Coordinate with internal engineering, production, and service teams.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in physics or engineering, or Bachelor’s degree with at least two 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 4 K and m K 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.

Additional Qualifications

• 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 organisational and time‑management skills.
• A collaborative, team‑oriented mindset.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, customer‑facing environment.
• Positive attitude and strong alignment with company values, including safety, diversity, and organisational 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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Salary Range

$100,000 – $130,000 annually