Systems Engineer - Analytical chemistry

Systems Engineer - Analytical chemistry

Company: Picarro
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Education: PhD Preferred (Physics, Chemistry, or related field)

Position Overview

Picarro is seeking a highly skilled Systems Engineer specializing in gas-phase measurements and atmospheric analysis to support advanced research, development, and application of precision gas sensing technologies. This role focuses on experimental measurement science, spectroscopy, and real-time analytical methods applied to air quality, greenhouse gas (GHG) monitoring, and related environmental systems.

The ideal candidate brings deep scientific expertise in gas-phase instrumentation, strong experimental laboratory capabilities, and advanced data analysis skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct high-precision gas-phase measurements of atmospheric and trace compounds
• Design and execute laboratory and field experiments for air quality and greenhouse gas monitoring
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental datasets using advanced statistical and computational methods
• Develop data analysis workflows and visualization tools (Python-based preferred)
• Support development and optimization of gas measurement instrumentation and methodologies
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate scientific findings into system improvements
• Validate and benchmark measurement performance across different experimental conditions
• Document experimental procedures, results, and scientific findings for internal and external use

Required Qualifications

• PhD preferred in Physics, Chemistry, Atmospheric Science, or related discipline
• Extensive hands-on experience in gas-phase measurements of chemical compounds
• Strong research background in one or more of the following areas:
• Air quality monitoring
• Greenhouse gas (GHG) measurement
• Atmospheric chemistry or environmental sensing
• Experience working with experimental laboratory systems and instrumentation

Technical Skills

• Strong data analysis and scientific computing skills
• Proficiency in Python strongly preferred
• Experience with data visualization and scientific plotting
• Strong understanding of measurement science and experimental uncertainty
• Familiarity with spectroscopy and/or optical measurement techniques

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with CRDS (Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy) strongly preferred
• Experience with real-time mass spectrometry (MS) acceptable
• Hands-on laboratory skills including:
• Instrument setup and calibration
• Gas handling systems
• Mechanical aptitude (e.g., wrench work, fittings)
• Machining and soldering experience desirable
• Strong background in spectroscopy techniques and applications
• Experience in translating scientific research into applied instrumentation systems

The base salary range for this full-time position is $120K to $130K. Our total compensation packages include base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity. Your base salary range and title will be determined based on the location, experience, qualification, skills, knowledge, level, and pay of employees in similar positions.

We offer a comprehensive benefit package including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plans
• Life, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• Employee Referral Program
• 401K
• Social events (summer picnic, holiday party, team lunches, etc.)
• On-site Health & Wellness programs (fitness challenges, outdoor bootcamp, flu-shots, etc.)

About Picarro:
 
We are the world's leader in timely, trusted, and actionable data using enhanced optical spectroscopy. Our solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including natural gas leak detection, ethylene oxide emissions monitoring, semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, food safety, hydrology, ecology, and more. Our software and hardware are designed and manufactured in Santa Clara, California and are used in over 90 countries worldwide based on over 65 patents related to cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology and are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, and reliability.
 
At Picarro, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, social orientation, or disability. Posted positions are not open to third-party recruiters/agencies, and unsolicited resume submissions will be considered free referrals.

At Picarro, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, please contact Picarro, Inc. at [email protected] for assistance.