Senior Staff Systems Engineer

We are seeking a passionate, creative and highly experienced system engineer to partner with molecular biologists in bringing our synthetic, cell-free DNA platform to the next scale. You will work on developing a large-scale DNA amplification system and integrating with our molecular biology protocols to meet the increasingly high demand of mRNA across the vaccine/drug development and cell/gene therapy domains. This position requires a well-rounded engineer who can integrate molecular biology workflows into large automatic systems from breadboard to prototypes and to the final instrument.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Design the instrument and consumables at component and system level. Define product requirements as well as key performance specifications and establish verification methods. Develop system architecture and interface that is reliable, sustainable and scalable.
• Plan and execute system integration activities. Develop and implement verification strategies and tests to ensure that the system meets performance and quality standards.
• Identify system level risks and develop mitigation strategies. Conduct risk assessments and monitor risk throughout the project.
• Lead the development of a large-scale DNA amplification instrument with automation and necessary consumables to meet marketing requirements.
• Work with other engineers and OEM vendors to build breadboards and prototypes of instruments and consumables.
• Design and execute hypothesis-driven, systematic experiments and present results to stakeholders. Lead technical problem-solving efforts and ensure effective solutions.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation. Support product release and manufacturing.

Essential Qualifications & Skills:

• PhD in mechanical engineering or bioengineering, or a related field and 10+ year experience in biotech instrument system development and manufacturing. (BS/MS with 5 more years of experience).
• Proficiency in mechanical designing and modeling of instruments and plastic consumables using proper tools (CAD). Experience in designing and implementing control methods and feedback loops at system and sub-system level using electrical or software solutions.
• Track records of developing high complexity systems from concept to release phases. Hands on experience in designing system architecture and interface, building instrument breadboards and prototypes, and transferring to final manufacturing model.
• Solid experience in leading system integration and V&V activities as well as risk management.
• Experience in integrating plastic consumables, such as reaction chamber or microfluidic cartridge, in biotech system.
• Thorough understanding of thermal dynamics and experience in designing high efficiency heat transfer devices.
• Proficiency in managing complex R&D projects, coordinating experiments, and meeting project deadlines.
• Ability to critically analyze experimental results, interpret data, and draw meaningful conclusions. Solid skills in troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to clearly and concisely present data to peers and upper management.
• Willing to incorporate best practices and apply innovative approaches to design and problem-solving.
• Able to work in a lab environment on-site.

Preferred Candidate Qualifications:

• Experience in automation for liquid handling or moving parts using robotics.
• Experience in developing PCR/qPCR/dPCR or NGS systems.
• Experience working with OEM model shop or manufacturer.

Salary and Benefits:

The annual base salary compensation for this role, if based in California is: $185,000 - $200,000. Compensation may be different in other locations. Final compensation also includes bonus, equity and benefits. Specific offer packages are determined by multiple factors, including candidate skill, experience, expertise, and location.

✓ Healthcare ✓ Dental ✓ Vision ✓ Learning Allowance

✓ 401K ✓ Flexible PTO ✓ Short Term Disability ✓ Fitness Allowance