Device Development Engineer (Prototyping-focus)

Atomic Machines is ushering in a new era in micromanufacturing with its Matter Compiler (MC) technology. The MC enables new classes of micromachines to be designed and built by offering manufacturing processes and a materials library that is inaccessible to semiconductor manufacturing methods. The MC promises to unlock MEMS manufacturing both for the many device classes that never could be made by semiconductor methods but also to open up entirely new classes. Furthermore, the MC is fully digital in the way 3D printing is digital, but where 3D printing produces parts of a single material using a single process, the MC is a multi-process, multi-material technology: bits and raw materials go in and complete, functional micromachines come out. The Atomic Machines team has also created an exciting first device – one that was only made possible by the existence of the Matter Compiler – that we will be unveiling to the world soon.

Our offices are in Emeryville and Santa Clara, California.

About this Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated Device Development Engineer with a passion for hands-on prototyping and lab experimentation to join our growing Devices Design team. This role is focused on the practical side of device R&D—building, testing, and iterating novel microscale devices using our proprietary Matter Compiler platform.

Our devices span a broad range of sizes (microns to millimeters) and incorporate diverse materials and processes not typically available in conventional semiconductor fabs. This is an ideal opportunity for a junior engineer who thrives in the lab, enjoys fast-paced iteration, has a desire for rapid growth, and wants to work closely with experienced engineers across disciplines to turn new ideas into real, functional devices.

The ideal candidate combines solid engineering fundamentals with strong lab skills, a detail-oriented mindset, drive to solve hard problems by building and testing, and the ability to track and organize data and results. You’ll contribute directly to the development of devices that challenge conventional thinking and help us redefine what’s possible in manufacturing at the microscale.

This position is full-time, onsite, and is located in our Emeryville location, reporting to the Director of Design Engineering.

What You’ll Do:

• Build and assemble microscale prototypes using lab equipment, custom semi-automated systems and our proprietary Matter Compiler platform.
• Perform hands-on experiments to evaluate new device designs and process capabilities, iterating quickly based on test results.
• Operate lab equipment for fabrication, assembly, and testing; proactively set up and calibrate new tools as needed.
• Prepare and analyze samples using advanced metrology tools such as SEM/EDS, x-ray, optical microscopy and profilometry, and CMM.
• Create and maintain CAD models and manufacturing files to support prototype fabrication and assembly.
• Document experimental workflows and design changes, capture and analyze test results, and communicate findings effectively across teams.
• Collaborate closely with engineers across design, process, and manufacturing to troubleshoot issues and improve device performance.
• Write and update SOPs for lab tools, processes, and custom setups to support reproducibility and team knowledge sharing.

What You’ll Need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field, with 2+ years of relevant work or research experience.
• Hands-on lab experience building and/or testing microscale systems (e.g., MEMS, microfluidics, micro-optics, or similar).
• Working knowledge of benchtop instrumentation and metrology equipment (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes, calipers, micrometers).
• Intermediate skills in CAD for prototyping and documentation purposes.
• Familiarity with experimental methods, data analysis, and iterative prototyping in a lab setting.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and a practical, problem-solving mindset.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document procedures and results precisely.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams with attention to detail, adherence to the scientific method, strong work ethic, and an outcomes-focused attitude.

Bonus points for:

• Track record of fabrication experience, e.g., a maker portfolio or hands-on prototyping projects.
• Machine shop experience (manual or CNC mill, manual or CNC lathe, saws, grinders, etc.).
• Programming experience, particularly in Python, for test automation or data processing.
• Experience with data visualization and analysis tools such as JMP, MATLAB, Pandas, matplotlib, etc.
• Familiarity with design verification, root-cause failure analysis, or reliability testing workflows.
• Exposure to structured product development methodologies (e.g., Agile, ICSM, or similar).
• Strong theoretical understanding and/or hands-on experience in the design, assembly, and testing of electrical or electronic components.