Staff Mechanical Engineer

10x Genomics; Pleasanton (CA); On-site; USD 179,300 - 242,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity grants

Comprehensive health benefits

Retirement benefits

Annual bonus

Job summary

10x Genomics is seeking a Staff Mechanical Engineer in Pleasanton, CA, to lead critical projects and act as a technical expert in mechanical engineering. This role involves designing large-scale mechanical systems for biotech devices and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Ideal candidates will have a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and over 10 years of industry experience. The position offers a competitive salary range of $179,300–$242,500, equity grants, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant industry experience in biotech or robotics.
• Deep theoretical knowledge in kinematics, thermals, and materials.
• High proficiency in 3-D CAD design using SolidWorks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture and design of large-scale mechanical systems.
• Take ownership of critical mechanical design projects.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing team of engineers.

Skills

Mechanical Design

Project Management

Team Leadership

CAD & Simulation

Education

BS/MS/Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Finite Element Analysis

Job description

Changing the definition of sequencing isn’t just our tagline – it’s a commitment to game‑changing advances in the field of genomics. Fueled by scientific vision and passion, we deliver unprecedented innovation to short‑read sequencing technologies and transform how genomic information is accessed.

What you will be doing

As a Staff Mechanical Engineer at 10x Genomics, you will take on full leadership of critical projects and teams. You will serve as a technical expert and thought leader within the mechanical engineering function, wielding significant influence over both strategy and execution.

Key Responsibilities

Technical & Design Leadership

• Strategic Mechanical Design: Lead the architecture and design of large‑scale mechanical systems and critical subsystems for complex biotech devices. Drive multidisciplinary integration across mechanical, fluidic, electrical, optical, and software domains.
• Biotech Innovation: Lead the development of novel mechanical approaches to solve complex problems in genomics (e.g., bioprocessing systems, automation platforms, liquid handling, and consumables). Explore and implement emerging technologies like robotics, advanced automation, or novel fabrication methods.
• Regulatory & Environment Compliance: Ensure all designs meet rigorous technical, performance, and regulatory standards.
• Advanced Modeling & Simulation: Utilize advanced simulation tools (such as FEA, CFD, and multi‑body dynamics) to predict system behavior under operational conditions, design for failure modes, and optimize complex mechanical parts and assemblies.

Project Execution & Process Optimization

• End‑to‑End Project Ownership: Take full ownership of critical mechanical design projects from initial concept, prototyping, and testing through to manufacturing and final deployment. Develop comprehensive project plans, managing timelines and deliverables.
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM): Work closely with NPI, Manufacturing, and Service teams to optimize designs for scalability and reliability. Perform DFMEAs and identify, research, and collaborate with strategic external vendors and suppliers.
• Process Improvement: Propose and implement new engineering tools, testing methodologies or design workflows to optimize team efficiency, reduce cycle times and cut development costs without sacrificing quality.

Collaboration, Communication & Leadership

• Cross‑Functional Team Leadership: Lead and influence cross‑functional teams (including Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Software, and Electrical Engineering) to ensure seamless system integration.
• Executive & External Representation: Act as the primary technical representative for mechanical engineering. Present complex data, technical risks, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.
• Team Development & Mentorship: Mentor and develop a high‑performing team of engineers. Foster an inclusive, growth‑oriented culture, provide career development guidance and actively assist in recruitment efforts.
• IP Generation: Identify opportunities to patent new technologies or design approaches, actively preparing and reviewing patent submissions to establish a competitive market advantage.

Minimum Requirements

• Education & Experience: BS/MS/Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a minimum of 10 years of relevant industry experience within biotech, medical devices, robotics, or high‑tech instrumentation.
• Technical Mastery: Deep theoretical fundamentals in kinematics/dynamics, thermals, materials selection (plastics, metals), fluidics, and stress analysis.
• CAD & Simulation Proficiency: High proficiency in 3‑D CAD design and surfacing (SolidWorks and EPDM/PDMWorks preferred). Advanced expertise in finite‑element analysis (FEA) and tolerance analysis.
• System Integration: Proven experience managing complex electromechanical assemblies containing motors, actuators, pumps, valves, regulators, sensors, cameras, and temperature controllers.
• Product Lifecycle Knowledge: Thorough understanding of all phases of the product development lifecycle, including design control processes (specifications, design reviews, risk analysis), transfer to manufacturing and field reliability tracking.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to distill complex technical data for executive‑level presentations.
• Demonstrated experience in at least two of the following specialized areas: control systems, dynamics/kinematics, mass flow/thermodynamics, optical systems, or fluidic handling.
• Prior experience establishing a culture of innovation, driving patent submissions or acting as an industry thought leader through publications or speaking engagements.
• Hands‑on experience with machining, prototyping and operating machine shop equipment.
• Familiarity with electronic document control systems (ECO processes).
• Basic knowledge of software programming or electrical engineering design to better facilitate cross‑functional collaboration.
• High energy, a hands‑on, can‑do approach, and a strong interest in working within a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

Pay Range

$179,300–$242,500 USD

Compensation and Benefits

At 10x, base pay is one component of your total compensation package. In addition to base salary, the role is eligible for equity grants, comprehensive health and retirement benefits and an annual bonus or sales incentive program.

Individuals seeking employment at 10x Genomics are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.