Sr Development Engineer – Optical Systems

Overview

Join a dynamic and innovative R&D team dedicated to developing the next generation of analytical instruments for the separation and characterization of macromolecules. These instruments are essential to pharmaceutical and vaccine development, materials science, and polymer research. As a Senior Hardware Development Engineer, you will own the design, development, and optimization of sophisticated fluidic and optical systems, demonstrating sophisticated analytical techniques such as static and multifaceted light scattering, differential viscometry, electrophoretic mobility, and refractive index detection.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of sophisticated hardware systems for analytical instrumentation, from concept through production.
• Architect and validate sophisticated optical and fluidic subsystems, ensuring performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, providing technical leadership and encouraging a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Drive prototype development, including hands-on assembly, testing, and iterative refinement.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using statistical methods and sophisticated visualization tools to evaluate system performance.
• Author and review detailed user documentation, including product specifications, test protocols, and quality control procedures.
• Lead root cause analysis and resolution of sophisticated manufacturing and field issues in collaboration with multi-functional teams.
• Take part in planning efforts, which involve crafting technology roadmaps, evaluating risks, and reviewing designs.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams, including software, systems, and applications engineers, to ensure seamless integration of hardware components.
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• The general base pay for this position ranges from $95,500/year to $159,000/year. Pay is based on several factors including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s degree or a PhD in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or an equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience (or equivalent) in hardware development for precision optical systems and scientific instrumentation is required.
• Proven expertise in design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for reliability (DFR).
• Strong proficiency data analysis platforms (e.g., MATLAB, Origin, Python, Mathcad). 
• Experience with prototyping techniques, including 3D printing, CNC machining, and rapid iteration.
• Excellent communication skills and a track record of multi-functional collaboration.
• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) is a plus.
• Experience with HPLC, Liquid chromatography is a plus
• Familiarity with regulatory and quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001, GMP) is a plus.