Systems Engineer

About SiPhox Health

SiPhox is bringing silicon-photonics diagnostics out of the central lab and into the home. We combine photonics, microfluidics, embedded systems, and semiconductor-grade manufacturing to quantify multiple biomarkers in minutes on a coffee-maker-sized device. Our goal: build the first mass-market photonic blood analyzer and fundamentally change how chronic disease is managed and how long people live healthy lives.

The Opportunity

This is a rare role. As a Systems Engineer at SiPhox, you own the full arc from bare subsystems to a working diagnostic instrument. Fluidics, optics, electronics, mechanics, software: you touch all of it. You're the person who finds out why something doesn't work, figures out whose problem it is, and drives it to resolution. No single-discipline silos here.

We're looking for someone with genuine hands-on breadth, a sharp analytical mind, and the drive to hold themselves to a high standard in a medical device environment where precision matters. You'll need to move comfortably between a lab bench, a Python script, and a design review, and you'll need to do it quickly as our product evolves from prototype to production.

This is an in-person role at our lab. Occasional travel to manufacturing sites in the US and internationally is required.

What You'll Do

System Integration & Build-Up

• Own end-to-end integration of electromechanical, fluidic, optical, and electronic subsystems into complete diagnostic instruments
• Develop, document, and execute integration test plans and procedures at each stage of the hardware build
• Maintain configuration control of integrated assemblies, tracking build status, known issues, and test results

Testing, Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis

• Design and run functional, performance, and reliability tests on integrated systems
• Identify failures, anomalies, and performance gaps; drive structured root cause analysis all the way to resolution
• Build and maintain test fixtures, jigs, and Python automation scripts to improve efficiency and repeatability
• Keep clear, thorough records of test data, failure modes, and corrective actions

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Be a team player first: find the right overall approach given the broader constraints, not just the optimal local solution
• Participate in design reviews and give integration-informed feedback on design-for-test, design-for-assembly, and design-for-reliability
• Partner with Quality and Regulatory to ensure integration activities align with design history file documentation and QMS requirements

Process & Continuous Improvement

• Build and refine integration processes, checklists, and work instructions as the product matures
• Spot recurring integration issues and advocate for the design or process changes that prevent them
• Support failure investigations, CAPAs, and non-conformance reports as needed

What We're Looking For

Must-Have

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering or science
• 3 years in hardware integration, systems test, or a similar hands-on engineering role
• Demonstrated breadth across at least two of: mechanical/fluidic systems, electronics/firmware, and software/scripting
• Proficiency with lab instruments (multimeters, oscilloscopes, flow sensors, optical measurement tools, etc.)
• Proficiency with hardware assembly methods (soldering, basic machining, 3D printing, hand tools, etc.)
• Working knowledge of Python or a similar scripting language for test automation and data analysis
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with a structured approach to root cause analysis
• AI-native mindset: comfortable using tools like Claude to troubleshoot, write scripts, document work, and get up to speed on new topics fast
• Excellent verbal and written communication in English, able to distill complex technical problems for diverse audiences
• Collaborative, low-ego working style; comfortable across disciplines and good at asking the right questions
• High standards, strong ownership, and a genuine work ethic
• Ability to travel occasionally (under 10%)
• US work authorization

Nice-to-Have

• Experience integrating or testing IVD or medical devices under ISO 13485
• Familiarity with fluidics, liquid handling, or microfluidic systems
• Hands-on experience with optical or photonic systems
• Experience writing or executing V&V protocols
• Exposure to PCBA bring-up, firmware flashing, or embedded systems debugging
• Experience with CAD tools (Onshape) for fixture design or reviewing mechanical assemblies
• Background in manufacturing process development, DFM, or DFA
• Experience with experimental design
• Ability to converse in Chinese or Spanish

Why This Role Is Unique

Most hardware engineers spend their careers in one discipline. This role is different. As the Systems Engineer, you sit at the intersection of every engineering domain at SiPhox: fluidics, optics, mechanics, electronics, software, biology, and chemistry. You'll see how the whole system fits together and have a direct hand in making it work. Real responsibility comes fast here. You'll be building something that doesn't exist yet and that will matter to millions of people.