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 Solid Works 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 Solid Works (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…