Systems Engineer - Thermal & Fluidics

Systems Engineer - Thermal & Fluidics

Location: Santa Clara, CA (primarily onsite, occasional remote flexibility)

Group: Analyzer Product Group (APG), Engineering

Picarro is seeking a Systems Engineer with deep expertise in heat transfer and fluid mechanics to design, characterize, and optimize thermal and fluidic subsystems for our Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) instrumentation. You will own the thermal and fluidic architecture of our analyzers-from concept through production-ensuring reliable performance across operating conditions.

This role combines hands-on engineering with simulation-driven design, requiring proficiency in CAD, CFD/thermal analysis tools, and practical system integration. You will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams to deliver robust, manufacturable solutions that meet stringent performance requirements.

• Design and architect fluidic systems, including gas handling, sample flow paths, valves, pumps, and manifolds
• Develop thermal management solutions for temperature-critical components (optical cavities, lasers, detectors)
• Create detailed designs in SolidWorks with full consideration of DFM, assembly, and serviceability
• Define system requirements and specifications for thermal and fluidic performance
• Perform trade studies to optimize designs for performance, cost, and reliability

• Conduct thermal and CFD simulations using ANSYS and/or COMSOL to predict system behavior
• Validate simulation models against experimental data and refine as needed
• Analyze heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid flow (pressure drop, mixing, residence time)
• Use simulation to guide design decisions and reduce prototype iterations
• Document analysis methodology and results for design reviews

• Lead hands-on characterization of thermal and fluidic subsystem performance
• Develop test fixtures, protocols, and instrumentation for thermal/flow measurements
• Integrate subsystems into full analyzer assemblies and validate system-level performance
• Troubleshoot thermal and fluidic issues; perform root-cause analysis and drive corrective actions
• Support environmental testing (temperature cycling, altitude, humidity)

• Work with external suppliers and machine shops to source components and fabricate custom parts
• Manage vendor relationships for fluidic components (valves, fittings, tubing, pumps)
• Support manufacturing with clear specifications, drawings, and assembly procedures
• Drive design-for-manufacturing improvements and cost reduction initiatives

• Apply design control practices appropriate for regulated product development
• Maintain proper documentation, design history files, and change control
• Participate in design reviews, FMEA, and risk assessments
• Support qualification and validation activities as required

• MS in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of relevant experience in thermal/fluidic system design
• Experience in medical diagnostics, analytical instrumentation, or other regulated industry strongly preferred
• Exposure to design control and product development lifecycle in regulated environments

• Thermal & Fluids:
• - Deep understanding of heat transfer fundamentals (conduction, convection, radiation)
• - Strong background in fluid mechanics and fluidic system design
• - Experience with thermal management of precision instruments or electronics
• - Knowledge of gas handling systems, flow control, and pressure regulation
• CAD & Simulation:
• - Proficiency with SolidWorks (3D modeling, assemblies, drawings)
• - Hands-on simulation experience with ANSYS and/or COMSOL (CFD, thermal analysis)
• - Ability to set up, run, and interpret simulation results
• - Experience validating models against experimental data
• Hands-On Skills:
• - Practical experience with system characterization and test development
• - Comfortable with lab instrumentation (thermocouples, flow meters, pressure sensors, DAQ)
• - Prototyping and fabrication experience; able to work with machine shops
• - Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis capabilities
• Supply Chain & Manufacturing:
• - Experience working with suppliers, vendors, and contract manufacturers
• - Understanding of manufacturing processes (machining, injection molding, sheet metal)
• - Knowledge of industry best practices for component selection and sourcing

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Collaborative; works effectively across ME, EE, and manufacturing teams
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation habits
• Self-directed; able to manage projects from concept through production

• Experience with gas analyzers, spectroscopy systems, or precision instrumentation
• Background in optical system thermal management
• Familiarity with FDA, ISO 13485, or similar regulatory frameworks
• Experience with FMEA, risk analysis, and design verification/validation
• Knowledge of statistical methods for test data analysis
• Experience with GD&T and tolerance analysis
• Note: This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy bridging simulation and hands-on work-designing systems on the computer and then validating them in the lab. We value practical problem-solvers who can navigate the complexities of thermal and fluidic design in a regulated product environment.

The base salary range for this full-time position is $140K to $150K. Our total compensation packages includes base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity. Your base salary range and title will be determined based on the location, experience, qualification, skills, knowledge, level, and pay of employees in similar positions.

We offer a comprehensive benefit package including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plans
• Life, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• Employee Referral Program
• 401K
• Social events (summer picnic, holiday party, team lunches, etc.)
• On-site Health & Wellness programs (fitness challenges, outdoor bootcamp, flu-shots, etc.)

About Picarro:

We are the world's leader in timely, trusted, and actionable data using enhanced optical spectroscopy. Our solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including natural gas leak detection, ethylene oxide emissions monitoring, semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, food safety, hydrology, ecology, and more. Our software and hardware are designed and manufactured in Santa Clara, California and are used in over 90 countries worldwide based on over 65 patents related to cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology and are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, and reliability.

At Picarro, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, social orientation, or disability. Posted positions are not open to third-party recruiters/agencies, and unsolicited resume submissions will be considered free referrals.

At Picarro, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, please contact Picarro, Inc. atdisabilityassistance@picarro.comfor assistance.