Mechatronics Engineer, R&D

Company Description

uFraction8 develops products based on a disruptive liquid particle processing technology derived from world-leading research in massively multiplexed microfluidic devices. The company’s solutions deliver superior performance and cost savings compared with filtration, flow centrifugation, and flocculation, especially for high-volume and high suspended solid applications. Its technology maintains efficiency at high volume fractions, enables precise particle selection at single-digit micron levels, and supports high recovery from low initial concentrations. The company is currently developing a series of new bench-top instruments and applications.

Role Description

The Mechatronics Engineer, R&D will work hybrid (UK, Poznan - Poland) in a full-time capacity, contributing to the design, development, and optimization of advanced liquid particle processing systems. Day-to-day responsibilities include designing and integrating mechanical, electrical, and control components into functional prototypes, building and testing electromechanical assemblies, and troubleshooting system performance issues. The role involves collaborating with small cross-functional team to translate research concepts into scalable products, preparing technical documentation, and supporting experimental setups in the lab. The engineer will also perform hands-on maintenance and repair of R&D equipment, analyze test data to improve reliability and efficiency, and ensure that designs adhere to safety and quality standards. This is not a routine maintenance role. It is a product-development position for an engineer who enjoys building, debugging and improving complex electromechanical systems across mechanical, electrical, control and fluidic interfaces. Work permit sponsorship available for non-Polish residents.

Key Responsibilities:

·        Design and develop electromechanical assemblies, mechanisms, enclosures, fixtures and test rigs for scientific instrumentation and process-development systems.

·        Integrate pumps, valves, pressure and flow sensors, actuators, motors, control electronics, microcontrollers and embedded/control software into reliable instrument modules.

·        Produce 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, tolerance information, BOMs, wiring/interface documentation and design specifications.

·        Build, test, debug and iterate prototypes in a hands-on lab/workshop environment.

·        Develop and execute verification tests for flow performance, pressure stability, repeatability, reliability, safety, usability and serviceability.

·        Work closely with microfluidics, biology/bioprocess, software, electronics, quality, external suppliers and the Poland site to translate system requirements into robust engineering solutions.

·        Conduct root-cause analysis and implement design improvements for robustness, manufacturability, maintainability and cost reduction.

·        Support beta-system builds, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting and user-feedback loops.

·        Maintain clear technical documentation, test reports and design history records suitable for regulated-product development.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in mechatronics and electromechanics, with experience integrating mechanical, electrical, and control systems into functional prototypes.
• Practical skills in electrical engineering and electronics, including circuit design, sensor integration, wiring, and diagnostics for laboratory and industrial equipment.
• Hands-on experience with maintenance & repair of complex electromechanical systems, including fault finding, preventive maintenance, and component replacement.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and basic simulation software for mechanical and electrical design is highly beneficial.
• Experience working in R&D or experimental environments, with a methodical approach to testing, data collection, and analysis.
• Ability to work safely with laboratory equipment and industrial hardware, following relevant standards and best practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team on-site or remotely.

Desirable Requirements:

·        Experience in scientific instrumentation, life-science automation, medical devices, laboratory automation, bioprocessing hardware or precision fluidic systems.

·        Familiarity with Python, C/C++, embedded systems, microcontrollers, data acquisition, PLC/HMI systems or motion-control environments.

·        Experience with pressure, flow, pump, valve, filtration or microfluidic control systems.

·        Knowledge of IEC 61010, CE/UKCA, risk assessment, design controls, verification/validation or regulated hardware development.

·        Experience taking products from early prototype through design freeze, beta testing, pilot production or manufacturing transfer.

·        Experience working with external suppliers, machine shops, contract manufacturers or specialist component vendors.