Job Information
ThermoFisher Scientific Mechanical Engineer I in Santa Clara, California
Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)
Environmental Conditions
Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)
Job Description
As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.
DESCRIPTION:
Join our collaborative manufacturing team and contribute to ensuring the highest quality production standards that help make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. The Mechanical Engineer I will contribute to the design, development, and optimization of manufacturable hardware solutions supporting bioprocessing equipment. This role plays a critical part in enabling scalable, reliable, and compliant systems used in life sciences and biotechnology applications. This position will work in a cross-functional environment, supporting the development of mechanical systems such as fluid handling assemblies, thermal management components, and stainless-steel processing equipment. This role is designed to build foundational engineering capability within a regulated, high-impact industry.
REQUIREMENTS:
Assist in the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies for bioprocessing equipment, ensuring performance, reliability, and manufacturability
Create and maintain 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation in compliance with internal standards and industry regulations
Apply design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles, considering processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, and injection molding
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, manufacturing, quality, regulatory, and supply chain
Participate in prototype builds, testing, and validation activities (e.g., pressure testing, leak testing, thermal testing, IP testing), and analyze results to inform design improvements
Assist in root cause analysis and troubleshooting of mechanical and system-level issues during development and production
Work with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure components meet design intent and quality standards
Generate and maintain documentation including BOMs, test protocols/reports, and engineering change orders (ECOs)
Education & Experience:
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or any Engineering field with experience in relevant coursework OR Associates Degree in Engineering field with 2 years of relevant experience in a similar role OR High School Diploma or GED with 4 years of relevant technical experience in a similar role (internships, co-ops, or academic projects acceptable)
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or similar)
Understanding of mechanical design fundamentals, materials, and manufacturing processes
Basic knowledge of fluid systems, sealing methods (e.g., O-rings, gaskets), and thermal considerations
Familiarity with GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
Preferred:
Exposure to bioprocessing, life sciences, or medical device equipment
Familiarity with stainless steel systems and/or single-use technologies
Basic understanding of industry standards (e.g., ASME BPE, FDA guidelines, GMP environments)
Experience with FEA, CFD, or other simulation tools
Hands-on experience with prototyping, lab testing, or instrumentation
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Attention to detail and commitment to quality in regulated environments
Ability to learn quickly and adapt in a multidisciplinary setting
Strong documentation and organizational skills
Collaborative mindset with cross-functional teams
SolidWorks CAD software knowledge
Physical Requirements and Work Environment:
Combination of office-based design work and hands-on lab or pilot manufacturing support
Interaction with cleanroom, lab, or production environments as needed
Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Laboratory Setting, Office
Compensation and Benefits
The hourly pay range estimated for this position based in California is $27.00–$36.00.
This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:
A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount
For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards
Thermo Fisher Scientific is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.