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Microfluidic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pilgrim

Mechanical Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

As a Mechanical Engineer at Pilgrim , you will be a hands-on member of our engineering team ... Develop and integrate microfluidic and airflow subsystems , including manifolds, channels, valves ...

ONI

Senior Systems Integration Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $144K/yr

Lead development of microfluidic devices and injection-molded consumables, including tooling ... Manage Bill of Materials (BOMs) and Engineering Change processes (ECO/ECR) using PDM tools ...

ONI

Senior Systems Integration Engineer

San Diego, CA

$130K - $144K/yr

Lead development of microfluidic devices and injection-molded consumables, including tooling ... Manage Bill of Materials (BOMs) and Engineering Change processes (ECO/ECR) using PDM tools ...

Exthymic

Senior Fluidics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

We are scientists, engineers, and operators who have spent our careers inside cell therapy ... Experience with microfluidic chip design and fabrication. * Familiarity with sterile fluid path ...

Exthymic

Senior Fluidics Engineer

San Diego, CA

$110K - $152K/yr

We are scientists, engineers, and operators who have spent our careers inside cell therapy ... Experience with microfluidic chip design and fabrication. * Familiarity with sterile fluid path ...

Exthymic

Senior Fluidics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

We are scientists, engineers, and operators who have spent our careers inside cell therapy ... Experience with microfluidic chip design and fabrication. * Familiarity with sterile fluid path ...

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All JobsMicrofluidic Engineer JobsMicrofluidic Engineer Jobs in California

Microfluidic Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do microfluidic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for microfluidic engineer in California is $101,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $124,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Microfluidic Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microfluidic Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering, physics, or biomedical sciences, with expertise in fluid dynamics, microfabrication, and device prototyping. Familiarity with CAD software, cleanroom processes, simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics, and often a relevant certification or advanced degree are commonly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are crucial, as projects frequently involve interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are important for successfully designing, developing, and troubleshooting innovative microfluidic devices used in fields like life sciences, diagnostics, and research.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a Microfluidic Engineer?

A Microfluidic Engineer's daily responsibilities often include designing and simulating microfluidic systems, conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing prototype performance, and working closely with biologists, chemists, and other engineers to refine project requirements. They may also spend time fabricating devices in cleanroom environments, documenting results, and troubleshooting technical challenges that arise during development. Collaboration with team members and stakeholders is common, as is the need to stay up-to-date on advancements in fabrication techniques and materials. These activities ensure that innovative and reliable microfluidic solutions are created for applications ranging from medical diagnostics to drug development.

What is a Microfluidic Engineer job?

A Microfluidic Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes microfluidic systems for applications in biotechnology, healthcare, diagnostics, and research. They work with small-scale fluid dynamics, creating devices that manipulate tiny volumes of liquids for tasks like lab-on-a-chip technology, drug delivery, and chemical analysis. Their role involves material selection, prototyping, testing, and integrating microfluidic systems with sensors and electronics. They often collaborate with biologists, chemists, and engineers to develop innovative solutions for scientific and industrial challenges.

What are popular job titles related to Microfluidic Engineer jobs in California? For Microfluidic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microfluidic Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Microfluidic Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Microfluidic Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Microfluidic Engineer job openings:
Microfluidic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microfluidic Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,531 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Pilgrim

Redwood City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

As a Mechanical Engineer at Pilgrim, you will be a hands-on member of our engineering team, driving the design, development, and deployment of advanced hardware systems. This is not a theoretical or routine R&D role-you'll own initiatives end-to-end, transforming mission needs into prototypes, refining them through field demos and rapid iterations, and engaging directly with operators and decision-makers to ensure breakthroughs reach warfighters where they matter most. This role is ideal for an engineer eager to learn fast, take ownership early, and grow through building systems that operate under real-world pressure.
You are highly encouraged to share a portfolio that demonstrates your skills and experience.
Responsibilities
  • Design and develop compact, ruggedized subsystems, housings, and rigs in CAD, ensuring reliability under shock, vibration, and environmental conditions.
  • Prototype components using CNC machining (Fusion 360 CAM + Haas Control), 3D printing (FDM/SLA), vacuum/pressure forming, laser cutting, and general metalworking.
  • Develop and integrate microfluidic and airflow subsystems, including manifolds, channels, valves, pumps, and sealing solutions (O-rings, gaskets, compression fittings) for reliable operation under pressure.
  • Design and implement mechanical assemblies such as gear trains, linkages, and actuation rigs to support electromechanical integration.
  • Apply DFM/DFA principles, tolerance analysis, and validation testing (fit checks, pressure/flow/thermal) to ensure designs scale efficiently from prototype to production.
  • Collaborate with electrical and systems engineers to integrate mechanics and fluidics into complex electromechanical assemblies.
  • Travel to conduct live demonstrations, stress-test prototypes in field conditions, and capture direct operator feedback, refining systems through iterative, hands-on engagement.

Qualifications
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (preferred) or related discipline (e.g., Materials, Biomedical, Electrical), or demonstrated equivalent capability (formal degree not required).
  • Portfolio of independent projects demonstrating applied mechanical design and prototyping skills (required).
  • Prior shop experience with CNC machining (milling/lathe), additive manufacturing, vacuum forming, laser cutting, and use of general fabrication tools.
  • Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (Fusion 360 preferred; SolidWorks acceptable), including toolpath generation for CNC workflows.
  • Familiarity with microfluidic and airflow design, manifold integration, and sealing methods (e.g., O-rings, compression fittings).
  • Strong understanding of ruggedized, compact design principles and tolerance stackups for reliable field performance.

Nice to Have
  • Experience with microfluidic systems (SMA and solenoid valves, peristaltic and piezoelectric pumps, IDEX-style fluidic connectors).
  • Experience designing to MIL-STD or similar ruggedization standards.
  • Background in thermal management, airflow optimization, or CFD analysis.
  • Experience with DFM/DFA in regulated industries (defense, aerospace, medical).
  • Knowledge of high-performance materials (PEEK, PTFE, composites, aluminum alloys, stainless steels).
  • Hands-on skills in assembly, testing, and root cause analysis of complex hardware systems.
  • Exposure to integrating electromechanical subsystems (pumps, valves, fans, connectors).

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive and contribute their best work.

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