At Sila, we are hiring a Sr Staff Engineer, R&D Equipment. This hands-on role is responsible for designing and building new-to-the-world R&D hardware from a blank sheet of paper, enabling our scientific teams to solve foundational problems. You will take comprehensive ownership of designs from concept through deployment, ensuring safety, reliability, and operational discipline.
What You'll Do
- Design and build new R&D hardware for Sila’s core anode technology, including the software and instrumentation that runs it.
- Starting from a blank sheet of paper, quickly deliver new-to-the-world reactors incorporating CVD, bulk materials handling, gas delivery, and pressure vessel systems.
- Self-start and take the lead in carrying out designs from concept through deployment.
- Ensure safety first in designs and contribute to process safety reviews.
- Test your machines; work as both a designer and an end-user to find and eliminate sources of drift and uncertainty.
- Work with contractors and external vendors to get things built, including fabricators, tradespeople, system integrators, and in-house engineers & technicians.
- Organize, document, communicate. Create enduring records of your work. Distill design decisions and experimental outcomes into actionable communication tailored to your audience.
- Bring the right level of operational discipline to an open-ended R&D setting. Plan projects accurately and execute according to plan. Creatively find opportunities to move faster and more efficiently.
What We're Looking For
- BS in mechanical engineering and at least 10 years of work experience (or fewer for candidates with an advanced degree).
- Expertise in performing calculations, analysis and design in accordance with key pressure vessel, structural & piping regulatory codes (ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII).
- Frictionless proficiency in mechanical design of complex assemblies, CAD software (SolidWorks preferred), and assembling/maintaining machines.
- Ability to strike the right balance of flexibility vs. robustness in your designs.
- Proficiency in documenting designs and getting them fabricated by outside vendors.
- Experience with system controls, PLCs, preferably Beckhoff Automation (TwinCat 2/3).
- Knowledge of AC and DC power fundamentals, sensor/signal troubleshooting, and field wiring best practices.
- Experience with complex, multidisciplinary technical systems (for instance: interconnected electronic, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems).
- Process Safety experience - understanding and experience applying elements of Process Safety Management (PSM).
- Great communication skills, including the ability to surface problems constructively.
- Experience in R&D settings with time pressure, open-ended technical problems, and substantial individual autonomy.
Technical Stack
- SolidWorks
- Beckhoff Automation (TwinCat 2/3)
- PLCs
Team & Environment
You will collaborate seamlessly with multidisciplinary technical experts, scientists, machinists, contractors, and vendors.
Benefits & Compensation
- Salary range: $172,000 to $218,000 + equity.
Work Mode
This role is onsite.
We believe that building a diverse team at Sila helps us amplify our individual talents. We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to creating an inclusive environment where good ideas are free to come from anyone. We are proud to celebrate diversity and all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, national origin, or any other status protected by law.
