Senior Mechanical Engineer, Research & Early Development

Roche•Santa Clara, CA

1d•$87,500 - $162,500•Onsite

About The Position

At Roche, we are dedicated to advancing science and ensuring access to healthcare. Our Systems Technology Group is focused on creating and advancing technologies to significantly enhance DNA sequencing workflows. We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to the mechanical design, development, characterization, and integration of cutting-edge sequencing systems. This is a hands-on role focused on solving the mechanical challenges at the heart of our next-generation platforms. You will be responsible for concepting, designing, building, and testing novel electro-mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, and fluidic solutions that ensure the ultimate performance, reliability, and longevity of our systems. The Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a vital role in driving innovation for our next-generation instrumentation. We are looking for someone that exhibits a high degree of motivation, independence, and resourcefulness to help us develop solutions to novel DNA Sequencing and automation challenges in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline), with 4+ years of relevant industry experience; or a Master's in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline), with 2+ years of relevant industry experience; or a PhD in in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline), with 1+ years of relevant industry experience.
Demonstrated, hands-on experience designing, developing, and testing complex electro-mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, or fluidic assemblies, preferably for life science or diagnostic instrumentation.
Demonstrated level of proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for detailed design and the creation of manufacturing drawings.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex hardware, software, and chemistry interfaces.
Highly proficient with machine shop tools, measurement equipment, and rapid prototyping technologies (e.g., CNC mills/lathes, laser cutters, 3D printers).

Nice To Haves

Proficient with Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools for device control and data acquisition.
Experience with simulation tools (CFD, FEA) to guide design decisions.
Experience developing next-generation sequencing (NGS) or other genomics instrumentation.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-experts and thrive in ambiguous environments.
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects efficiently.
High degree of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and scientific curiosity applied to solving integration challenges and optimizing system performance in an R&D environment.

Responsibilities

Design and develop sub-systems, including electro-mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, thermal, and consumable components.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (including electrical, consumables, and materials engineers) to define and manage critical technical interfaces for your module.
Have ownership of your sub-systems during verification, integration, and troubleshooting, working closely with Systems Integration engineers.
Conduct cross-functional design reviews to drive alignment and resolve technical trade-offs between mechanical design, materials, and assay requirements.
Drive technical execution for sub-systems, manage design deliverable timelines, and contribute to the overall project plan.
Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation for your sub-systems, including detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications.
Present technical progress, data, and design trade-offs to the project team and stakeholders, clearly articulating the impact of engineering decisions.