Instrument Development Engineer (m/f/d)

Your mission

• Design precision linear and rotary positioning stages and mechanisms, including guides, bearings, flexures, and motorised drives, as well as optomechanical assemblies
• Develop new products from concept through detailed design, including tolerance analysis and the creation of manufacturing drawings in accordance with ISO GPS/GD&T
• Perform sustaining engineering for the existing product line, including design changes, product updates, and the management of component obsolescence
• Continuously improve products and manufacturing processes by analysing the root causes of production and field issues and implementing effective corrective actions
• Apply design-to-cost and value-engineering methods to optimise the performance, manufacturability, and cost of existing assemblies
• Create, maintain, and release drawings and bills of materials in PDM; manage engineering changes through ECR/ECO processes, revision control, and configuration control
• Source machined parts and surface treatments from suppliers, including preparing requests for quotation, clarifying technical requirements, and supporting first-article inspections
• Prototype, test, and iterate mechanical designs in close collaboration with the optics, electronics, and software teams

Your profile

• Master's degree or Bachelor of Science (HES/FH) in mechanical engineering, microengineering, or a closely related discipline
• At least three years of industrial experience in precision mechanical design
• Expert use of SolidWorks for precision mechanical assemblies and mechanisms; SolidWorks PDM or an equivalent PDM system
• Tolerancing per ISO GPS / GD&T, fits and tolerance stack-up; complete manufacturing drawings
• Design for manufacturing and assembly of machined parts, material and surface-treatment selection, and direct work with suppliers
• Understanding of how optical, mechanical, and electronic sub-systems integrate into a functioning instrument
• Able to work independently in a small, cross-disciplinary team
• Self-motivated and proactive in completing assigned tasks in line with company goals
• Good written and spoken English
• Swiss/EU citizenship or valid work permit for Switzerland

• Optomechanics, optics, or laser-based measurement systems
• FEM simulation (structural or thermal)
• Thermal design and temperature control
• Basic electronics integration (cabling, connectors, motors and sensors)
• Space engineering standards (ECSS) or aerospace projects
• Hands-on workshop skills (e.g. polymechanic CFC; CNC machining, 3D printing, assembly)
• Good command of French and/or German

Why us?

• Permanent, full-time position
• You become part of a growing company where your contribution makes a difference, is valued, and is part of our path to further success
• International, research-driven team in a cutting-edge technology environment
• Matrix organisation, flexible working hours and conditions in a modern environment
• A company with values dedicated to uncompromising integrity, trust, respect, and teamwork
• Located in a dynamic startup incubator community, fostering innovation and networking
• Train station right next door; parking nearby
• Vibrant, diverse culinary scene – modern cafés and restaurants in the immediate neighbourhood

About us

Postnova is internationally active as a leading manufacturer and provider of equipment, software, and services for the analysis of nanoparticles, polymers, and biomolecules.

We are the inventor of field flow fractionation and an innovator in the field of laser light scattering.

Renowned universities, research institutes and companies all around the globe use our solutions in the fields of life science, material science, and environmental science.

Our devices are used in product development, process optimization, and quality assurance. They make a decisive contribution to the development of new medicines, innovative materials, and the preservation of our livelihoods and the environment.

As a company, we enjoy financial autonomy and pursue a long-term strategy of independence.