Senior Inkjet Process & Integration Engineer

Role Summary:

Lead the development of a high-precision nucleic acid synthesizer by integrating inkjet printing, microfluidics, and motion control systems. Own the optimization of jetting parameters for custom substrates and prototype microfluidic washing chambers to maximize fluid exchange efficiency. Contribute from design, manufacturing to deployment of the integrated printer. Lead the continuously process improvement.

Key Challenges:

• Tune inkjet printhead parameters (waveforms, drop spacing, etc.) for consistent droplet placement accuracy.
• Design and validate microfluidic chamber geometries to enhance washing chemistry performance.
• Transfer optimized processes from test stations to integrated production-scale instruments.

Responsibilities:

• Technical Ownership: Serve as primary engineer for inkjet process development and microfluidic chamber prototyping.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with chemists, facilities, and EHS to ensure utility support (gas, exhaust, waste) for instrument operation.
• Vendor Management: Direct overseas partners in design, cost estimation, and validation (DFM, FMEA, DOE).
• Problem Solving: Deploy SPC, DOE, and root-cause analysis to resolve jetting instability or fluidic inefficiencies.
• Technology Integration: Adapt cutting-edge materials (e.g., hydrophobic coatings) and components (solenoids, pumps) into designs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, or a related field, with 5+ years of hands-on experience in inkjet printing or precision fluid jetting technologies.

OR
PhD in a relevant engineering or physical science discipline with 2+ years of applied R&D experience in jetting systems or microfluidic instrumentation.

• Domain Expertise Must Include:
  • Direct experience tuning printhead jetting parameters (waveforms, drop volume, frequency, satellite droplet control) on customized substrates.
  • Exposure to inkjet driver electronics, reagent delivery architectures (pumps, valves, pressure regulation), and/or fluid path design.
  • Familiarity with integrating jetting systems into custom instrumentation — especially involving motion control and sealed fluidic chamber.
• Strongly Preferred:
  • Proven hands-on experience in prototyping of microfluidic components or washing chambers, demonstrating the ability to translate design concepts into functional prototypes.
  • Demonstrated success in scaling up lab-scale jetting processes to fully integrated and automated production platforms, ensuring process robustness and repeatability.
  • Strong vendor management skills, including selecting, evaluating, and coordinating with suppliers to meet project timelines and quality standards.

• Skills:
• Fluent in Chinese (required) for vendor coordination.
• Proficiency in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks) and fluid dynamics simulation (preferred).
• Familiarity with LabVIEW or Python for instrument control (bonus).
• Travel: 10–20% international travel.

Benefit:

• Medical Insurance/ Vision Insurance/ Dental Insurance
• 401(k) & Retirement Savings Plan (RSP)
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• New Child Leave
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Company Holidays per year
• Paid Sick Days (earned based on hours worked)
• Compassionate Leave
• Jury Duty Leave
• Float day
• Personal days

Perks: 

• Free colleague meals during shift
• Onsite massages Charis
• Onsite gyms

Compensation:
Salary range: $110,000 – $160,000, depending on experience and qualifications.