System Engineer - Hardware support

Contract Systems Engineer – Hardware Support
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Schedule: 100% Onsite | Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (based on business needs)
Employment Type: Contract
About the Opportunity
Join a cutting-edge team developing next-generation nanopore sequencing technology designed to make clinical genetic testing more accessible, accurate, and affordable. This innovative platform is advancing single-molecule DNA sequencing and has the potential to transform disease screening, genetic analysis, and cancer diagnostics.

We are seeking a highly motivated Systems Engineer – Hardware Support who thrives in a fast-paced R&D environment and enjoys solving complex technical challenges. In this role, you will support advanced sequencing and sample preparation platforms by driving troubleshooting efforts, conducting root cause investigations, and collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams to improve system reliability, performance, and uptime.

This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer with a passion for life sciences, instrumentation, hardware/software systems, and emerging sequencing technologies.
Key Responsibilities

• Become a subject matter expert on sequencing and sample preparation platforms to ensure optimal system performance and minimal downtime.
• Investigate hardware, software, and assay-related issues through troubleshooting, failure analysis, and root cause investigations.
• Partner with engineering teams to identify corrective actions and implement solutions for recurring system failures.
• Support laboratory teams with technical troubleshooting across instruments, devices, software, and reagent workflows.
• Design, execute, and document experiments, testing protocols, and validation activities to verify platform functionality.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with systems, instrument, device, software, and reagent teams to communicate findings and drive issue resolution.
• Contribute to instrument development initiatives by supporting design improvements, testing, and performance optimization.
• Apply statistical methods and data analysis techniques to evaluate system performance and identify trends.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline.
• 1–2+ years of experience in engineering, product development, laboratory operations, or a related technical environment.
• Experience troubleshooting complex systems such as:
  • Microfluidic platforms
  • Liquid handling systems
  • Diagnostic instruments
  • Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) systems
• Knowledge of failure analysis, defect management, or root cause investigation methodologies is highly desirable.
• Understanding of DNA sequencing technologies and sequencing methodologies.
• Experience performing statistical analysis using tools such as JMP, R, or similar software.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent documentation and electronic record-keeping skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Comfortable working in a laboratory environment and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Background
Candidates with experience in systems engineering, biochemistry, electrochemistry, electromechanical systems, materials science, or advanced life science instrumentation are encouraged to apply.
What You'll Bring

• A passion for innovative technology and complex problem-solving.
• A proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Strong analytical thinking and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• A desire to make a meaningful impact on the future of genomic and diagnostic technologies.

Role Focus
Hardware & Software Instrument Support

This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands-on troubleshooting, cross-functional collaboration, and supporting breakthrough technologies that are shaping the future of precision medicine and genetic testing.