System Design Engineer I

System Design Engineer I, Microscopy
The mission of the Allen Institute is to unlock the complexities of bioscience and advance our knowledge to improve human health. Using an open science, multi-scale, team-oriented approach, the Allen Institute focuses on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a broad, transformational impact on science.

The mission of the Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics (AIND) is to answer fundamental questions about brain function. Specifically, how does our brain build our understanding of the complex world around us to guide the flexible behaviors that address our biological needs? The answers will be in terms of defined neuron types interacting across the whole brain and body, requiring us to develop next-generation neurotechnologies and employ a team-based approach for discovery neuroscience. Knowledge, data, and tools will be widely shared, in part to support the development of therapies for brain disorders.

We are seeking a System Design Engineer to help develop software for advanced microscopy systems being designed at the Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics within the Multi-Scale Molecular Anatomy team. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists and other engineers at the Allen Institute and elsewhere, with the shared goal of deploying, scaling, and disseminating new technologies for large-scale imaging projects. Robust control and characterization of these imaging systems will be instrumental for the success of multiple internal and external projects, which will provide the candidate with ample opportunity for career growth and development.

The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences, and backgrounds. Progress in science benefits from multiple perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

Essential Functions

• Write and maintain microscope acquisition software repositories
• Test and deploy graphical user interfaces for advanced microscopy systems
• Perform unit testing of, operate, and characterize advanced microscopy systems
• Develop new hardware device drivers
• Support dissemination of developed software repositories to external groups
• Work with scientists to develop new software features as needed for new imaging experiments
• Maintain detailed records and organize materials through GitHub with standard best practices

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of degree and experience in a science, computation, or engineering field

Preferred Education and Experience

• 0 - 2+ years of experience writing professional software
• Hands-on experience with advanced scientific instrumentation
• Prior experience with computer programming (Python required, C++ preferred)
• Track record of developing graphical user interfaces (Qt preferred)
• Strong communication and scientific writing skills
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary environment (academic or industrial)

Work Environment

• Work will be done in a laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate equipment
• Occasional working in confined environment (e.g. under table, in small instrument compartments)

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of working hours. The primary work location for this role is 615 Westlake Ave N., with the flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis. We are a Washington State employer; any remote work must be performed in Washington State.

Travel

• Attendance and participation in national and international conferences may be required [note that travel may not be required to attend]

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity offersrelocation assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity offers work visa sponsorship**

Annualized Salary Range

• $72,200 - $101,050 *

• Final salary depends on required education for the role, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with work location, where applicable.

Benefits

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institute’s 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institute’s benefits offering are located at the following link to the Benefits Guide: https://alleninstitute.org/careers/benefits.

It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.