Senior Mechanical Engineer II

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.

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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:

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 an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations.  From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.  

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

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Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com