Bio-Mechatronics Engineer (Lab Automation, Fluidics & Instrumentation)

About OliveBio

OliveBio is developing an AI-guided cell-free biocatalysis platform for manufacturing high-performance polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs): biodegradable, non-toxic biopolymers that leave no persistent microplastics behind. Our platform enables precise control over polymer chemistry and material properties through engineered enzymatic pathways and scalable reaction system design.

We operate as a hardware and computation-heavy, experiment-driven startup where iteration speed and experimental reliability are critical.

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly hands-on Bio-Mechatronics Engineer to design, build, and iterate custom experimental hardware for biochemical synthesis workflows. This role sits at the intersection of mechanical design, fluidics, embedded electronics, and experimental process engineering.

You will own development of prototype systems such as dosing rigs, automated sampling modules, temperature-controlled reaction vessels, sensor-instrumented reactors, and small-scale fluid handling networks. You will work directly alongside scientists to translate biological experimental needs into reliable hardware. We are looking for tinkerers and makers.

Core Responsibilities1. Experimental Hardware Design & Prototyping

• Design benchtop reaction systems incorporating mixing, thermal control, dosing, sampling, and inline sensing
• Develop modular experimental rigs that support rapid reconfiguration for new workflows
• Build mechanical assemblies using 3D printing (FDM/SLA), machining, off-the-shelf components, and custom fixtures
• Design for cleanability, chemical compatibility, and ease of use in a lab setting

2. Fluidics & Process Hardware

• Design and implement fluidic networks including tubing, manifolds, check valves, flow restrictors, filters, and fittings
• Select and integrate pumps (peristaltic, diaphragm, syringe), solenoid valves, pinch valves, and pressure regulators
• Develop dosing systems for reagents, solvents, buffers, and viscous liquids (including troubleshooting cavitation, backpressure, clogging, and bubble formation)
• Develop leak mitigation strategies and serviceable architectures (quick disconnects, purge lines, bypasses, drain logic)

3. Embedded Controls & Instrument Integration

• Integrate sensors such as RTDs/thermistors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, conductivity probes, pH probes, and optical sensors
• Build control systems for heaters, chillers, stir motors, pumps, and valves
• Develop microcontroller-based automation (Arduino/ESP32/Raspberry Pi or equivalent)
• Implement PID control loops where appropriate (temperature, flow, pressure)

4. Automation, Reliability, and Debugging

• Build systems that operate repeatedly and predictably under real experimental conditions
• Diagnose failure modes across mechanical, electrical, and fluidic subsystems
• Perform structured troubleshooting and root-cause analysis
• Improve system robustness through iterative redesign (not just patch fixes)

5. Documentation & Engineering Process

• Maintain clear documentation including CAD files, wiring diagrams, control logic, and full BOMs
• Create build instructions and assembly procedures
• Develop test plans and validation workflows for new prototypes

Required Qualifications

• BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Bioengineering, or similar (or equivalent practical experience)
• 3+ years experience designing and building electromechanical systems (industry, startup, or research lab)
• Strong CAD capability (Fusion360, SolidWorks, Onshape, etc.) and real-world assembly experience
• Experience integrating sensors, actuators, motors, and power electronics into functional systems
• Comfort working with fast iteration cycles and incomplete specs

Strongly Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience building fluidic systems
• Experience with lab automation, custom instrumentation, or scientific hardware
• Experience with 3D printing for functional engineering parts
• Experience selecting and integrating pumps/valves/fittings with real constraints (chemical compatibility, dead volume, cleaning)
• Experience with chemical processing, bioprocessing, or bioreactor systems
• Experience working with lab environments and chemical handling constraints

Bonus Skills (Highly Valued)

• PCB design experience
• Familiarity with industrial control architectures (relays, SSRs, optoisolation, proper grounding)
• Experience with stepper motors / motor drivers / motion systems
• Experience with DAQ systems and instrument communication (UART, I2C, SPI, RS485, Modbus, USB, etc.)
• Python scripting for hardware control or data logging
• Experience designing systems for temperature stability and heat transfer optimization
• Familiarity with cleanroom-compatible design or contamination-sensitive workflows

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Stock options
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person