Principal Research Engineer

About the role

The Systems Technology Group, a part of Roche Sequencing Solutions, is seeking a Principal Research Engineer to contribute to the design, development, characterization, and integration of cutting-edge sequencing systems. This is a hands-on role focused on solving the fluidic and consumable challenges at the heart of our next-generation platforms.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to architecture, design, research and early development of specialized consumables and mating mechanisms
• Contribute to the layout, prototyping, and characterization of new fluidic circuits and architectures
• Design, build, assemble and operate custom test fixtures to support testing of fluidic subsystems and novel consumables
• Translate high-level system and assay requirements into fluidic schematics, system architectures and concepts to evaluate, compare, and downselect design paths
• Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation for your sub-systems, including requirements, schematics, diagrams, CAD models, manufacturing drawings, and material specifications
• Conduct cross-functional design reviews. Present progress, data, and engineering decisions clearly to stakeholders

Requirements

• You have a degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related discipline, with relevant industry experience (7+ years for a Bachelor's, 5+ years for a Master's, or 3+ years for a PhD)
• You have demonstrated hands-on experience characterizing and testing complex fluidic systems and consumable interfaces for life science or diagnostic instrumentation
• You have experience using diagramming tools to map out fluidic architectures and explain complex fluidic concepts to non-experts
• You are proficient with Python for device control, automated test bench execution, and data acquisition/analysis
• You have a demonstrated background in experimental design for fluidic characterization
• You are proficient with machine shop tools, measurement equipment, and rapid prototyping technologies
• You have demonstrated troubleshooting skills, with a solid understanding of physics, chemistry and engineering fundamentals

Preferred Qualifications

• You have experience with plastic bonding techniques and injection molding principles
• You have experience utilizing CFD or FEA tools to guide fluidic and thermal design decisions
• You have experience with DNA sequencing, DNA synthesizers and other complex fluidic automation instrumentation
• You have a track record of acting as the engineering bridge between scientists and the hardware/consumables team
• You have excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple project tracks efficiently and thrive in ambiguous, fast-paced environments
• You work with a sense of urgency, contagious optimism, and natural curiosity regarding technical, business, and market trends
• You have experience with advanced microfabrication techniques, including lithography, thin-film deposition and wet etching of metals and inorganic materials
• You have experience with optical systems and image analysis for detection and inspection of parts and the monitoring of dynamic processes
• You have expertise in SolidWorks for detailed assembly design and the creation of manufacturing drawings

Benefits

This is an on-site position based in Santa Clara, CA. (This is not a hybrid position.) Relocation benefits are not being offered for this role. The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Santa Clara, CA is $110,600 - $205,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. The role's level (& title) may be adjusted based on experience and qualifications. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.