Sr Mechanical Design Engineer, Motion Systems

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support new product development in genomics instrumentation. This is a highly technical mechanical design role focused on the development of custom mechanisms, precision motion systems, and electromechanical assemblies used in advanced instrumentation.

The ideal candidate will be an engineer with experience designing motorized mechanisms and precision motion systems, including a strong understanding of system requirements, motion architecture, controls integration, structural design, and performance validation. The ideal candidate also has experience developing motion solutions from requirements through implementation and understands the engineering principles behind achieving precise, reliable motion in complex systems.

Responsibilities Design and develop custom mechanical mechanisms for use in genomics instruments, including motion systems, precision assemblies, and fluidic or sample‑handling components.

Integrate mechanical designs with electrical, firmware, and control systems

Create and maintain 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and supporting documentation.

Perform mechanical analyses such as tolerance stack‑ups, material selection, and basic structural evaluation.

Build and evaluate prototypes to verify design intent and system performance.

Support system testing, troubleshooting, and iterative refinement during development.

Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing partners on fabrication and assembly processes.

Define performance requirements and engineering specifications for motion-based subsystems.

Design and develop motorized mechanisms involving actuators, motors, linear stages, lead screw systems, bearings, guides, and other precision motion technologies.

Perform mechanical analyses including vibration assessment, positioning accuracy, repeatability, precision mechanism evaluation, and structural performance.

Evaluate and specify custom and commercially available motion components while ensuring designs meet system-level performance requirements.

Support root cause analysis and troubleshooting of motion-related performance issues.

Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams from concept through production release.

Required Qualifications Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 3 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work experience.

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Minimum of 5 years of experience designing mechanical systems, mechanisms, or electromechanical products.

Experience designing motion systems and precision mechanical mechanisms.

Experience developing electromechanical or mechatronic systems, preferably in instrumentation, automation, robotics, or related industries.

Experience developing engineering requirements, specifications, and performance criteria for mechanical systems.

Demonstrated understanding of motion system design including:

Stepper motors

Servo motorsDC motors

Linear motors

Lead screw systems

Bearings and…