Staff Mechanical Engineer

As a Staff Mechanical Engineer at 10x Genomics, you'll lead the design and implementation of technical solutions for complex projects. This includes everything from requirements gathering and concept generation to verifying and validating product designs. You will also collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure that mechanical assemblies meet various specifications and manage relationships with external partners for mechanical design work. Additionally, you're expected to support assembly processes and document vital aspects like patent submissions.

To apply for the Staff Mechanical Engineer role at 10x Genomics, candidates should possess a BS, MS, or Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, with a minimum of 10 years of relevant industry experience. High proficiency in 3D CAD, especially SolidWorks, and capabilities in finite element analysis are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong communication skills and comfort with all phases of the product development lifecycle.

10x Genomics looks for candidates with strong theoretical fundamentals and systematic aptitude. Key skills include proficiency in mechanical design, project management, and an understanding of manufacturing techniques such as machining and injection molding. Experience with instrumentation in biotechnology or robotics, as well as an ability to work in a fast-paced, startup environment, will greatly benefit applicants.

A Staff Mechanical Engineer at 10x Genomics may work on a variety of projects involving next-generation sequencing instruments. This could include designing systems with motors, sensors, and various biological sample processors. You'll also have opportunities to experiment with advanced concepts in microfluidics, control systems, and much more, all contributing to groundbreaking advancements in biology.

The work environment at 10x Genomics is dynamic, inclusive, and focused on innovation. Staff Mechanical Engineers are encouraged to explore new ideas and follow their passions while working in interdisciplinary teams. The company fosters a collaborative atmosphere that prioritizes growth and development, allowing you to make meaningful contributions to exciting projects in life sciences.

When discussing your experience with 3D CAD software during the interview, focus on the types of projects you've managed using tools like SolidWorks. Highlight specific instances where your designs led to successful outcomes or innovations. Mention how you use the software for both design and simulations, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and technical proficiency.

In your answer, provide examples of how you've effectively managed projects from inception to completion. Discuss your methods for timeline management, resource allocation, and collaboration with team members. Emphasize your organizational skills and ability to adapt to changes, ensuring all project milestones are met while maintaining high-quality standards.

Share a systematic approach you take from requirements gathering through to validation. Outline each phase, explaining how you ensure specifications are met and how you troubleshoot potential problems. Providing examples of past experiences will help demonstrate your thorough understanding of the product design lifecycle.

Discuss a specific instance where you encountered an engineering challenge and the strategies you employed to solve it. Focus on how you analyzed the situation, the innovative solutions you proposed, and the successful outcome. This not only showcases your technical skills but also your ability to think critically under pressure.

Talk about your experience with conducting thorough reviews and validations of your designs to ensure compliance with necessary specifications. Discuss your familiarity with relevant safety standards and regulations in your industry and how you incorporate these into your design process.

Emphasize your collaborative approach by discussing your experience working with cross-functional teams. Provide examples of how teamwork led to innovative solutions and successful project outcomes. Highlight your communication skills, which are essential for effectively sharing ideas and requirements across different disciplines.

Share your approach for developing and performing validation tests for products. Discuss specific methodologies you've used for testing, the importance of gathering feedback, and how you adjust designs based on test results. This will demonstrate your commitment to quality and reliability in engineering.

Explain your strategies for continuous learning in mechanical engineering. This could involve attending industry conferences, participating in webinars, or following reputable journals and blogs. Discuss how you implement new technologies or methods into your work, proving your dedication to innovation.

Discuss your understanding of design for manufacturability and how it influences your engineering designs. Provide examples of how you've implemented this principle in past projects, taking into account component selection, material properties, and cost-effectiveness in production processes.

Be sure to express genuine enthusiasm for 10x Genomics and its mission. Discuss how the company's focus on groundbreaking biological research aligns with your career goals and values. Mention specific projects or technologies that excite you, reinforcing your desire to be part of the team that drives scientific advancements.