Senior Mechanical Engineer, Research & Early Development

F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG; California (MO); On-site; USD 87,500 - 162,500; Full time

Job summary

F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG in California seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to drive innovation in the design and integration of sequencing systems. You will be tasked with developing and testing complex electromechanical assemblies.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with relevant experience, problem-solving skills, and proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks. The expected salary range is between $87,500 and $162,500, reflecting experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of relevant industry experience with a Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience in designing and testing complex electro-mechanical systems.
• Proficiency in CAD for detailed designs and manufacturing drawings.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electro-mechanical, pneumatic, and fluidic components.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage technical interfaces.
• Create and maintain design documentation, including CAD models and specifications.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Hands-on experience with electro-mechanical systems

Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks)

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

High proficiency with machine shop tools

Education

Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Python

LabVIEW

Job description

We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to the mechanical design, development, characterization, and integration of cutting‑edge sequencing systems.

Role Overview

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 Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a vital role in driving innovation for our next‑generation instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop sub‑systems, including electro‑mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, thermal, and consumable components.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (including electrical, consumables, and materials engineers) to define and manage critical technical interfaces for your module.
• Have ownership of your sub‑systems during verification, integration, and troubleshooting, working closely with Systems Integration engineers.
• Conduct cross‑functional design reviews to drive alignment and resolve technical trade‑offs between mechanical design, materials, and assay requirements.
• Drive technical execution for sub‑systems, manage design deliverable timelines, and contribute to the overall project plan.
• Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation for your sub‑systems, including detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications.
• Present technical progress, data, and design trade‑offs to the project team and stakeholders, clearly articulating the impact of engineering decisions.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline) with 4+ years of relevant industry experience; or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline) with 2+ years of relevant industry experience; or PhD in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline) with 1+ year of relevant industry experience.
• Hands‑on experience designing, developing, and testing complex electro‑mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, or fluidic assemblies, preferably for life science or diagnostic instrumentation.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for detailed design and the creation of manufacturing drawings.
• Problem‑solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex hardware, software, and chemistry interfaces.
• High proficiency with machine shop tools, measurement equipment, and rapid prototyping technologies (e.g., CNC mills/lathes, laser cutters, 3D printers).
• Preferred: Proficiency with Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools for device control and data acquisition.
• Experience with simulation tools (CFD, FEA) to guide design decisions.
• Experience developing next‑generation sequencing (NGS) or other genomics instrumentation.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non‑experts and thrive in ambiguous environments.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects efficiently.
• High degree of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and scientific curiosity applied to solving integration challenges and optimizing system performance in an R&D environment.

Location & Compensation

Location: SantaClara, CA (onsite only, no hybrid). Relocation benefits are not available for this job position.

Expected salary range: $87,500 – $162,500 based on the primary location. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Roche is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws. If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.