Job Description
The Engineering and Applied Physics team at Vertex, San Diego, is looking to add a top-notch Senior Mechanical Engineer II to our elite team of engineers and physicists. From advanced robotics and automation to microfluidics and cutting-edge microscopy, this unique in-house team develops a wide array of performance-focused technological solutions for the toughest challenges in drug discovery. Where commercial options don’t exist, the team collaborates directly with Vertex scientists to create innovative solutions that enable ground-breaking science and discovery of life-saving medicines. The Senior Mechanical Engineer II plays a key role, helping us translate ideas into design, design into hardware, and hardware into meaningful technological impact.
This is an onsite position at our San Diego research site.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
Design complex precision electromechanical and opto-mechanical systems
Own mechanical designs from concept through deployment; accountable for quality, documentation, manufacturability, and technical execution
Develop robust, manufacturable, production-ready scientific instruments meeting functional, reliability, safety, and performance requirements
Prepare clear design documentation for procurement and manufacturing
Partner with stakeholders to define requirements and timelines and report project status
Present designs to department, cross-functional, and senior leaders
Mentor and support team members
Use sound engineering judgment to assess tradeoffs and deliver creative, effective solutions to challenging problems
Knowledge and Skills:
Advanced CAD and PDM skills; SolidWorks preferred
Broad machine-design experience delivering high-quality, production-ready scientific instrumentation
Strong ownership and accountability; independently drive complex designs to completion
Solve complex design problems independently and contribute effectively on cross-functional teams
Experience with pneumatic, fluidic, and motion-control components: cylinders, valves, pumps, servo/stepper motors, controllers/amplifiers, encoders, ball screws, belts, guides, and gears
Enclosure design experience: sheet metal, extruded/welded frames, thermal management, and safety
Design-for-manufacture experience: CNC machining, 3D printing, sheet-metal fabrication, and injection molding
Strong understanding of relationship between mechanical design, system performance, manufacturability, assembly, integration, and testing
Generalist mindset; willing to explore new methods, materials, and technologies
Strong organization, communication, and time management; clearly explain technical decisions, status, and tradeoffs to diverse audiences
Detail-oriented, self-driven problem solver with a record of innovative solutions
Hand and power tool experience; basic mill/lathe skills a plus
Education and Experience:
BS or higher in Mechanical Engineering
8+ years designing precision electromechanical and/or opto-mechanical systems
Track record delivering commercial products from concept through manufacture and deployment
Experience advancing complex mechanical designs through detailed design, build, test, and deployment
Ability to develop multiple concepts, make sound technical tradeoffs, and execute practical solution
Passion for science and engineering and for improving the lives of patients with serious diseases.
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At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.
Pay Range:
$125,600 - $188,400
Disclosure Statement:
The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is…