Process Engineer 1 or 2 - Laser Systems

Illumina • San Diego, CA

1d

About The Position

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity? At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients. Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible. As a Process Development Engineer on Illumina’s Flow Cell Technical Operations team, you will own and sustain laser‑based, automated fabrication processes critical to Flow Cell Mechanical Operations. You will maintain process capability, improve tool performance, and support day‑to‑day manufacturing execution while enabling the introduction and scale‑up of new products, processes, and technologies. This role will collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Quality, and cross‑functional engineering teams. You will solve complex technical problems, drive continuous improvement, and ensure laser systems reliably support a growing and increasingly complex product pipeline.

Requirements

• Experience in biotech, pharmaceutical, chemical, or high-tech manufacturing environments preferred
• Experience in sustaining or developing automated manufacturing equipment; laser‑based or opto-mechanical systems preferred
• Experience supporting high‑volume manufacturing in regulated or quality-driven environments preferred
• Experience with SPC, DOEs, and data-driven process improvement is a plus
• Strong computer skills, including data analysis and manufacturing systems
• Experience with product or process development lifecycles and basic project management is a plus
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work effectively across departments
• Hands‑on experience troubleshooting complex mechanical, electrical, optical, or instrumentation systems
• Camstar MES experience a plus
• Experience supporting multiple manufacturing sites in a global environment is a plus
• 0-4 years of relevant experience with a bachelor’s degree, or equivalent work experience

Responsibilities

• Sustain, troubleshoot, and improve automated, laser‑based manufacturing systems supporting high‑volume production
• Own day‑to-day manufacturing performance, including yield, utilization, and efficiency
• Apply materials, optical, mechanical, and systems‑level knowledge to improve process performance and manufacturability
• Develop and execute experimental plans, DOEs, SPC responses, and risk assessments for on‑market support and new product transfers
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation reliability, throughput, and process control
• Develop and maintain Camstar MES models to support automation workflows
• Create and execute test plans for equipment and software with defined requirements and acceptance criteria
• Troubleshoot mechanical, optical, laser, and instrumentation issues across integrated automation platforms
• Champion a strong safety culture through participation in safety risk assessments and mitigation activities
• Support cross‑functional and cross‑site efforts, including site transfers and remote troubleshooting
• Document system changes, investigations, and improvements in compliance with regulated manufacturing requirements

Benefits

• We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work, including access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits, and paid time off.
• We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission.
• Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics.
• We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race.
• We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees