Director, Hardware and Systems

Cytek Biosciences Inc•Bellevue, WA

19h

About The Position

The Director of Hardware and Systems will drive end-to-end hardware development and system architecture for complex instruments integrating fluidics, optics, imaging systems, and electromechanical subsystems, while collaborating closely with globally distributed engineering teams. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in analytical instrumentation with strong leadership and global execution capabilities.

Requirements

Advanced degree in Bioengineering, or related engineering field; PhD is preferred.
10+ years of experience in hardware/system development for analytical or life science instruments.
5+ years of engineering leadership experience.
Strong expertise in flow cytometry, optical imaging systems, or similar high-precision instrumentation.
Proven experience delivering complex hardware products from concept to commercialization.
Experience working with globally distributed engineering teams.
Experience with contract manufacturing and global supply chains.

Responsibilities

Own system-level architecture for flow cytometry and imaging platforms, integrating optics, lasers, detectors, fluidics, and electronics.
Define system requirements, interface specifications, and traceability frameworks.
Lead system integration, verification, and validation (V&V).
Oversee design and development of precision mechanical systems including fluidics, sample handling, optical alignment, and thermal control.
Ensure designs meet stringent requirements for sensitivity, repeatability, and robustness in lab and clinical environments.
Drive DFM/DFA, cost optimization, and scalability for production.
Lead design reviews, prototyping, testing, and manufacturing transfer.
Conduct trade-off analyses across performance (e.g., resolution, throughput, sensitivity), cost, and reliability.
Implement best practices in requirements management, PLM, and change control.
Guide development of optical and imaging subsystems, including illumination, detection, and signal acquisition.
Partner with assay and scientific teams to translate biological requirements into engineering specifications.
Ensure precise alignment, calibration, and stability of optical paths and imaging components.
Drive innovations in throughput, data quality, and system sensitivity for cytometry and imaging applications.
Work closely with electrical, firmware/software, assay development, product management, and operations teams.
Collaborate with suppliers and contract manufacturers globally, especially for optics and precision components.
Communicate program status, risks, and trade-offs to executive leadership.
Partner with Cytek engineering teams across the US and China.
Establish strong collaboration frameworks, communication rhythms, and decision-making processes.
Align system architecture, interfaces, and integration strategies across sites.
Ensure smooth cross-site handoffs (design → integration → manufacturing).
Ensure compliance with ISO 13485, and applicable standards.
Support DHF documentation, risk management (FMEA), and validation protocols.
Partner with quality and regulatory teams on audits and product approvals as needed.