Principal Mechanical Engineer III, Early Research And ...

Requirements & Qualifications + Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or related field (PhD + 5 yrs, MS + 10 yrs, or BS + 10 yrs industry experience). + Deep handsu2011on experience designing and testing complex mechanical, electrou2011mechanical, pneumatic, and fluidic systems (life sciences/diagnostics preferred). + Strong expertise in thermal management and precision temperature control systems. + Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks) and designing for manufacturing (machining, injection molding, 3D printing). + Experience with fluidics components (pumps, valves, tubing, sensors, materials). + Skilled in prototyping, machine shop tools, and test/measurement equipment. + Proficiency with Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools for device control and data acquisition. + Strong problemu2011solving skills across hardware, software, and chemistry domains. + Preferred: technical leadership experience and mentoring junior engineers. Core Responsibilities + Lead endu2011tou2011end mechanical design and development of complex subu2011systems (electrou2011mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, and thermal). + Design novel mechanisms for automated reagent and flow cell loading, clamping, sealing, and reliable repeated use. + Architect and implement precision thermal control systems, including heating/cooling, sensing, condensation control, and heat management. + Collaborate crossu2011functionally (electrical, materials, consumables, systems) to define interfaces and resolve technical tradeu2011offs. + Support system integration, verification, and troubleshooting as the primary technical expert for assigned subu2011systems. + Drive technical execution, timelines, design reviews, and documentation (CAD, drawings, specifications). + Partner with simulation experts to validate CFD, thermal, and optical models using empirical data. + Contribute to longu2011term system architecture and technical strategy; present progress and design decisions to stakeholders. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Santa Clara, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $85.00 - $92.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: u2022 Medical, dental & vision u2022 Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital u2022 401(k) Retirement Plan u2013 Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available u2022 Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) u2022 Short and long-term disability u2022 Health Spending Account (HSA) u2022 Transportation benefits u2022 Employee Assistance Program u2022 Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Santa Clara,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 3, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email ( ) for other accommodation options.

Created: 2026-03-02