Senior Mechanical Engineer II at Vertex Pharmaceuticals in San Diego, CA

Job description

Job Description The Engineering and Applied Physics team at Vertex, San Diego, is looking to add a top-notch Senior Mechanical Engineer II to our elite team of engineers and physicists. From advanced robotics and automation to microfluidics and cutting-edge microscopy, this unique in-house team develops a wide array of performance-focused technological solutions for the toughest challenges in drug discovery. Where commercial options don’t exist, the team collaborates directly with Vertex scientists to create innovative solutions that enable ground-breaking science and discovery of life-saving medicines. The Senior Mechanical Engineer II plays a key role, helping us translate ideas into design, design into hardware, and hardware into meaningful technological impact. This is an onsite position at our San Diego research site. Key Duties & Responsibilities: Design complex precision electromechanical and opto-mechanical systems Own mechanical designs from concept through deployment; accountable for quality, documentation, manufacturability, and technical execution Develop robust, manufacturable, production-ready scientific instruments meeting functional, reliability, safety, and performance requirements Prepare clear design documentation for procurement and manufacturing Partner with stakeholders to define requirements and timelines and report project status Present designs to department, cross-functional, and senior leaders Mentor and support team members Use sound engineering judgment to assess tradeoffs and deliver creative, effective solutions to challenging problems Knowledge and Skills: Advanced CAD and PDM skills; SolidWorks preferred Broad machine-design experience delivering high-quality, production-ready scientific instrumentation Strong ownership and accountability; independently drive complex designs to completion Solve complex design problems independently and contribute effectively on cross-functional teams Experience with pneumatic, fluidic, and motion-control components: cylinders, valves, pumps, servo/stepper motors, controllers/amplifiers, encoders, ball screws, belts, guides, and gears Enclosure design experience: sheet metal, extruded/welded frames, thermal management, and safety Design-for-manufacture experience: CNC machining, 3D printing, sheet-metal fabrication, and injection molding Strong understanding of relationship between mechanical design, system performance, manufacturability, assembly, integration, and testing Generalist mindset; willing to explore new methods, materials, and technologies Strong organization, communication, and time management; clearly explain technical decisions, status, and tradeoffs to diverse audiences Detail-oriented, self-driven problem solver with a record of innovative solutions Hand and power tool experience; basic mill/lathe skills a plus Education and Experience: BS or higher in Mechanical Engineering 8+ years designing precision electromechanical and/or opto-mechanical systems Track record delivering commercial products from concept through manufacture and deployment Experience advancing complex mechanical designs through detailed design, build, test, and deployment Ability to develop multiple concepts, make sound technical tradeoffs, and execute practical solution Passion for science and engineering and for improving the lives of patients with serious diseases. #LI-KM1 At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients. Pay Range: $125,600 - $188,400 Disclosure Statement: The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for