What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Mechanical Engineer II, Early Research and Development position at Sharp Decisions?
A Medical Device Manufacturing / Pharmaceutical client of Sharp Decisions is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer in Santa Clara, CA. This is a 6-month contract with possible extension, offering $79.45/hour on a W2.
This is a hands-on role for a multidisciplinary expert focused on solving core mechanical challenges for next-generation platforms. The role involves designing, building, and testing innovative electro-mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, and fluidic solutions to ensure system performance, reliability, and longevity.
The Principal Mechanical Engineer will drive innovation for next-generation instrumentation, requiring high motivation, independence, and resourcefulness in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Core Responsibilities- Lead end-to-end mechanical design and development of electro-mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, and thermal sub-systems.
- Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define and manage technical interfaces.
- Develop mechanisms for automated reagent and flow cell loading, clamping, and sealing.
- Design and integrate thermal control systems including heating/cooling elements and sensors.
- Partner with simulation teams to validate CFD, thermal, and optical models.
- Serve as technical expert during system integration, verification, and troubleshooting.
- Lead cross-functional design reviews and resolve technical trade-offs.
- Manage timelines and deliverables for mechanical sub-systems.
- Create and maintain detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications.
- Contribute to system architecture and technical strategy.
- Present technical progress and engineering decisions to stakeholders.
- PhD with 3 years, Master's with 4 years, or Bachelor's with 7 years of relevant experience.
- Hands-on expertise in mechanical, electro-mechanical, and pneumatic system design.
- Experience in thermal management and precision temperature control systems.
- Experience with fluidics systems (pumps, valves, tubing, sensors).
- Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks).
- Experience with manufacturing processes (machining, injection molding, 3D printing).
- Strong troubleshooting skills across hardware, software, and chemistry interfaces.
- Experience with machine shop tools and rapid prototyping technologies.
- Proficiency in Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools for device control and data acquisition.
- Experience leading technical projects and mentoring engineers.
- Experience with simulation tools such as CFD and FEA.
- Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) or genomics instrumentation.
- Experience in regulated product development environments.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.2
Salary : $79