Senior Research Engineer, Research & Early Development

Roche; California (MO); On-site; USD 88,000 - 163,000; Full time

Job summary

Roche Sequencing Solutions in Santa Clara, CA seeks a Senior Research Engineer to advance hardware for next-generation sequencing systems. You will design, prototype, test, and optimize fluidic and electromechanical subsystems, collaborating with scientists and engineers to push technology forward.

The role emphasizes hands-on fabrication, data-driven troubleshooting, and integration of complex hardware with bioanalytical workflows in an on-site setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Bioengineering or closely related field is required.
• 2–5 years of relevant research and early development experience in life science.
• Hands-on hardware development and prototyping experience.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and fabricate parts and devices using CNC, laser cutting, 3D printing and other prototyping tools.
• Assemble, test, characterize, and troubleshoot fluidic and electromechanical systems and devices.
• Optimize workflows, protocols, and assays and analyze data to drive progress.
• Operate, repair and maintain lab equipment and custom systems such as breadboards and fixtures.
• Collaborate with other scientists and engineers.

Skills

Hardware design

Fluidic systems

Prototyping

Troubleshooting

3D CAD (SolidWorks)

Data analysis

Education

Ph.D. in Bioengineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CNC machining

Laser cutting

3D printing

Job description

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

Roche is 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, part of Roche Sequencing Solutions, is focused on creating and advancing technologies to significantly enhance DNA sequencing workflows. We are seeking an enthusiastic, team-oriented Senior Research Engineer to join the effort. In this role, you will tackle a variety of tasks and projects that will help us advance our technology and hardware related to our next-generation DNA sequencing systems.

Your efforts will cover many aspects related to the fabrication, assembly and testing of custom devices, fixtures, breadboards and prototypes.

Your Role and Responsibilities

• Designing and fabricating parts and devices using CNC machining, laser cutting, 3D printing and other shop and prototyping tools
• Assembling, testing, characterizing, and troubleshooting complex fluidic and electromechanical systems and devices.
• Optimizing workflows, protocols, and assays, while collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to drive technical progress.
• Operating, repairing and maintaining various lab equipment and instruments, including custom systems such as breadboards and fixtures
• Utilizing various types of metrology instruments to characterize parts and evaluate manufacturing methods
• Collaborating with other scientists and engineers

Who You Are:

(Required)

• You have a Ph.D. in Bioengineering or a closely related discipline
• You have 2-5 years of relevant research and early development experience in the life science industry.

Core Technical Experience:

• You have a demonstrated success in designing, modeling, building, operating, and troubleshooting hardware, fixtures, and breadboards integrated with fluidic, pneumatic, thermal, and optical subsystems.
• You have a demonstrated level of proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for detailed design and the creation of manufacturing drawings.
• You have strong creative problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex hardware, software, and chemistry interfaces.
• You have demonstrated hands‑on experience with DNA sequencing or other molecular biology‑based workflows (nucleic acid extraction methodologies and purification techniques, library preparation, and target enrichment).
• You have demonstrated a level of proficiency in operating and interpreting data from bioanalytical instruments, including qPCR, dPCR, Bioanalyzer/TapeStation, Qubit Fluorometer, and NanoDrop UV‑Vis Spectrophotometer.
• You have demonstrated a strong grasp of engineering and chemistry fundamentals.

Preferred Qualifications:

• You have a solid publication record, including at least one first‑authored publication.
• You have a level of technical skills paired with strong organizational, communication, and writing capabilities.
• You have strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non‑experts and thrive in ambiguous environments.
• You have excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects efficiently.
• You exhibit a high degree of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and scientific curiosity applied to solving integration challenges and optimizing system performance in an R&D environment.
• You have demonstrated a strong desire to learn, be challenged, and proactively challenge the status quo.

This position is based onsite in Santa Clara, CA. This is not a hybrid position.

Relocation benefits are not available for this job position.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location Santa Clara, CA is $87,500 - $162,500. 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 pr