Enter a job title or keyword

Sr Mechanical Design Engineer

Illumina


Job Location:

San Diego, CA - USA

Monthly Salary: $ 98400 - 147600
Posted: 11 July 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 14 October 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

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 mechanical design focused role working on custom mechanisms and precision motion systems. Seeking an engineer with experience in designing of motorized mechanisms including a good understanding of control systems.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop custom mechanical mechanisms for use in genomics instruments including motion systems precision assemblies and fluidic or samplehandling 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 stackups 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.

Required Qualifications

  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelors degree; or 3 years and a Masters degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work experience.
  • Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of mechanical design experience mechanisms.
  • Motion system design experience
  • Experience developing electromechanical or mechatronic systems preferably in instrumentation or automation.
  • Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g. SolidWorks Creo NX) and familiarity with PDM systems.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T DFM/DFA principles and common manufacturing processes.
  • Handson prototyping and testing experience.
  • Ability to manage tasks communicate clearly and work effectively with crossfunctional teams.

The estimated base salary range for the Sr Mechanical Design Engineer role based in the United States of America is: $98400 - $147600. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. The range reflects longterm growth in the role; therefore most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience skills location and internal equity. Additionally all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work including access to genomics sequencing family planning health/dental/vision retirement benefits and paid time off.

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation Illumina has always prioritized openness collaboration and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay regardless of gender ethnicity or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences increase cultural awareness and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex race creed color gender religion marital status domestic partner status age national origin or ancestry physical or mental disability medical condition sexual orientation pregnancy military or veteran status citizenship status and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local state and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local state and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process please contact To learn more visit: The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Required Experience:

Senior IC