Prototype Engineer

About Pivot Bio:  

Fueled by an innovative drive and a deep understanding of the soil microbiome, Pivot Bio is pioneering game-changing advances in agriculture. Our products harness the power of naturally occurring microbes to provide nutrients to crops and new sustainable ways for farmers to reduce the usage of synthetic fertilizers as they work to help feed the world’s growing population.

Read/Hear more about Pivot Bio on Forbes or PBS News Hour. 

Position: Prototype Engineer 

Location: Berkeley, CA (North America) 

Pivot Bio is looking for a Prototype Engineer who will be responsible for scoping and developing prototype instruments, devices, and accessories for our various research and commercial internal needs. This role resides within the Automation and Engineering team. The ideal candidate will help researchers, engineers, and other team members with the challenges facing Pivot with timely, unique, and practical solutions. We’re looking for someone with a service mindset, entrepreneurial spirit, and solid engineering fundamentals to join us. 

Responsibilities:  

• Work as part of a project team to design, produce, and deploy custom devices and instruments.
• Fabrication and invention of new instruments unique for Pivot Bio’s needs.
• Iteration and improvement on existing instrumentation unique to Pivot Bio
• Work directly with end users to understand issues and enhancement requests 
• Evangelize the custom instrumentation and engineering functions at Pivot to the various internal departments and locations.
• Engage internal and external resources such as software engineers, outside engineering, and design firms as warranted.
• Prepare designs, engineering schematics, and technical documentation as required.

Qualifications and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or relevant engineering discipline. 
• 5+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• Creativity in the face of novel problems and requests from multiple internal customers
• Ability to adapt to change in dynamic startup environment 
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and 2D software (e.g. SolidWORKS, Fusion 360, OnShape, AutoCAD)
• Technical background in motion systems, mechatronics, instrument control systems, and/or robotics. 
• Previous experience in one or several of the following spaces preferred: analytical chemistry, scientific instrumentation, research agronomy and/or industrial fermentation.
• Experience with rapid prototyping, hands-on skills using common machining tools, CNC milling and 3D printers
• Device controller programming skills (e.g., serial communication, PLCs, Arduino) strongly preferred.
• Finite element analysis skills a plus.
• Ability to work with partner and stakeholders using clear verbal and written communication; ability to understand unmet needs, build alignment, and tailor solutions to address the key requirements

Physical Demands:   

• Job will involve office and computer-based work 
• Prototyping and assembly at dedicated workbenches
• Visits to Pivot Bio sites nationwide to gather requirements and deploy solutions 
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, or fingers 
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing 
• Communicating with others to exchange information 

*Must be authorized to work in the United States  

What we offer: 

• Competitive package in a disruptive startup 
• Stock options 
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance with employer-paid premiums 
• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability policies 
• Employee Assistance Program with free referrals and discounts 
• 401(k) plan, 3% Match 
• Commuter benefits 
• Annual Training & Development support 
• Flexible vacation policy with a generous holiday schedule 
• Exciting opportunity to work with a talented and fun team

*Internal employees, please apply by clicking on the Internal Job Board icon on NSIDER