Staff Mechanical Engineer, Consumables

About this role

<p>What if your next design project wasn't just on new technology like a phone or domestic appliance but actually helped make cancer a thing of the past?</p> <p>At 10x Genomics, our mission is to accelerate the mastery of biology to advance human health. But that progress doesn't happen in a vacuum—it is driven by new technologies and the people with the courage to build them.</p> <p>We are moving with incredible urgency. We recently celebrated a massive milestone with the official unveiling of our newest innovation: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/10x-genomics-introduces-atera-a-new-platform-ugcPost-7452008338063659008-NU6v/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAHMxOABJ5pbEcXvTyqf1hLmvJdqLQ8vZEQ"><strong>Atera</strong></a>. This system is a prime example of how we use first principles to make the impossible possible, bringing high-impact single cell analysis to more researchers than ever before.</p> <p>To keep this momentum going, we are looking for a <strong>Staff Mechanical Engineer, Consumables</strong> who isn't afraid of "difficult." This isn't just about CAD tools and validation testing; it’s about interdisciplinary collaboration and solving the intricate challenges that stand between us and the next medical breakthrough.</p> <p>We believe that "WE" is more important than "ME." You’ll work alongside world-class scientists and manufacturing experts to ensure our consumables integrate perfectly with the biological workflows that are changing the world. Whether you are optimizing high-volume injection molding or leading a design from concept to commercialization, your work will be the foundation for the next generation of cures.</p> <p>If you are a doer who loves a challenge and wants to build a lasting legacy, you’ll find your home here. We don't just follow the path set by others—we forge our own. </p> <h3><strong>What you will be doing</strong></h3> <h4><strong>1. Strategic Design & Technical Leadership</strong></h4> <ul> <li><strong>High-Precision Consumables:</strong> Lead the architecture and design of complex biotech consumables, focusing on <strong>Injection Molded (IM) plastics</strong>, over-molding, LSR and assembly techniques (ultrasonic welding, laser bonding).</li> <li><strong>Fluidic Integration:</strong> Drive the development of fluidic and microfluidic systems by consulting with fluidic SMEs, ensuring seamless integration between consumable cartridges and permanent instrument hardware.</li> <li><strong>Advanced Simulation:</strong> Utilize <strong>FEA, tolerance analysis, and CFD</strong> to predict part behavior and ensure robust performance under laboratory operating conditions.</li> <li><strong>Regulatory Excellence:</strong> Design for compliance with <strong>ISO 13485, FDA 21 CFR Part 820 as well as RUO</strong>. Contribute to the creation of Design History Files (DHF).</li> </ul> <h4><strong>2. End-to-End Project Ownership</strong></h4> <ul> <li><strong>Concept to production:</strong> Take full ownership of critical subsystems from "napkin sketch" through high-volume manufacturing (HVM).</li> <li><strong>DFX Leadership:</strong> Champion <strong>Design for Manufacturing (DFM)</strong> and <strong>Design for Assembly (DFA)</strong>, working closely with toolmakers and CMOs to ensure tool designs and strategies are optimized.</li> <li><strong>Vendor Management:</strong> Act as the primary technical point of contact for external molding partners and material suppliers, ensuring quality and performance standards are met.</li> </ul> <h4><strong>3. Innovation & Problem Solving</strong></h4> <ul> <li><strong>IP Generation:</strong> Identify and pursue patentable innovations in fluid handling, sealing technologies, and consumable-to-instrument interfaces.</li> <li><strong>Root Cause Analysis:</strong> Lead complex failure analysis (FEA, SEM, etc.) for plastic components, identifying issues like creep, stress cracking, or biocompatibility failures and implementing permanent corrective actions.</li> </ul> <h4><strong>4. Leadership & Mentorship</strong></h4> <ul> <li><strong>Technical Mentorship:</strong> Directly mentor junior Engineers, fostering a culture of rigorous engineering discipline and creative problem-solving.</li> <li><strong>Cross-Functional Bridge:</strong> Serve as the "mechanical voice" in rooms full of Biologists, Chemists, and Software Engineers to ensure the hardware meets the underlying science.</li> </ul> <h3><strong>Minimum Requirements</strong></h3> <ul> <li><strong>Education:</strong> BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering.</li> <li><strong>Experience:</strong> 10+ years of experience in mechanical design, with at least 5 years specifically in <strong>medical devices or biotech consumables.</strong></li> <li><strong>Plastics Expertise:</strong> Deep knowledge of thermoplastic resins (COC, COP, PC, PP), elastomers (TPE/TPU), and the nuances of high-volume injection molding.</li> <li><strong>Tooling/Equipment:</strong> Experience with CAD (SolidWorks/Creo), PDM systems, and simulation suites.</li> <li><strong>Quality Systems:</strong> Familiarity with Risk…