Director, Hardware and Systems

The Director of Hardware and Systems will drive end-to-end hardware development and system architecture for complex instruments integrating fluidics, optics, imaging systems, and electromechanical subsystems, while collaborating closely with globally distributed engineering teams. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in analytical instrumentation with strong leadership and global execution capabilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform essential duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Own system-level architecture for flow cytometry and imaging platforms, integrating optics, lasers, detectors, fluidics, and electronics.
• Define system requirements, interface specifications, and traceability frameworks.
• Lead system integration, verification, and validation (V&V).
• Oversee design and development of precision mechanical systems including fluidics, sample handling, optical alignment, and thermal control.
• Ensure designs meet stringent requirements for sensitivity, repeatability, and robustness in lab and clinical environments.
• Drive DFM/DFA, cost optimization, and scalability for production.
• Lead design reviews, prototyping, testing, and manufacturing transfer.
• Conduct trade-off analyses across performance (e.g., resolution, throughput, sensitivity), cost, and reliability.
• Implement best practices in requirements management, PLM, and change control.

Product and Technology Leadership

• Guide development of optical and imaging subsystems, including illumination, detection, and signal acquisition.
• Partner with assay and scientific teams to translate biological requirements into engineering specifications.
• Ensure precise alignment, calibration, and stability of optical paths and imaging components.
• Drive innovations in throughput, data quality, and system sensitivity for cytometry and imaging applications.
• Work closely with electrical, firmware/software, assay development, product management, and operations teams.
• Collaborate with suppliers and contract manufacturers globally, especially for optics and precision components.
• Communicate program status, risks, and trade-offs to executive leadership.

Global Engineering Collaboration

• Partner with Cytek engineering teams across the US and China.
• Establish strong collaboration frameworks, communication rhythms, and decision-making processes.
• Align system architecture, interfaces, and integration strategies across sites.
• Ensure smooth cross-site handoffs (design integration manufacturing).
• Travel as needed to global R&D and manufacturing locations.

Regulatory & Quality Compliance

• Ensure compliance with ISO 13485, and applicable standards.
• Support DHF documentation, risk management (FMEA), and validation protocols.
• Partner with quality and regulatory teams on audits and product approvals as needed.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Advanced degree in Bioengineering, or related engineering field; PhD is preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in hardware/system development for analytical or life science instruments.
• 5+ years of engineering leadership experience.
• Strong expertise in flow cytometry, optical imaging systems, or similar high-precision instrumentation.
• Proven experience delivering complex hardware products from concept to commercialization.
• Experience working with globally distributed engineering teams.
• Experience with contract manufacturing and global supply chains.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Ability to travel at least 25%

Cytek is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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