Sarmal, Inc. is a San Diego–based biotechnology company developing next-generation genomics and molecular detection platforms. Our work integrates molecular biology, chemistry, and advanced systems engineering to enable faster, more precise, and more accessible genomic insights.
We are a highly collaborative, R&D-driven team operating in a fast-paced, early-stage environment. Our scientists and engineers work across disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and translate innovation into scalable, real-world applications.
At Sarmal, we value scientific rigor, curiosity, and a builder mindset. We are looking for individuals who are energized by ambiguity, motivated by impact, and excited to help bring breakthrough technologies from concept to reality.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and drive wafer fab process development for devices used in the TEEM platform, from early feasibility through high-volume manufacturing readiness.
- Define, optimize, and control key unit processes including photolithography, etch, deposition, etc.
- Apply metrology techniques including profilometry, SEM, XRD, etc., to characterize process outputs and support process control.
- Contribute to device design by providing process engineering insights to ensure manufacturability, performance, and yield optimization.
- Lead process integration activities, ensuring compatibility of unit processes across full device fabrication flows.
- Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for process issues using structured problem‑solving methods.
- Support design of experiments (DOE), execution, and statistical analysis to characterize process windows and optimize process parameters.
- Manage technology transfer to contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), including developing process qualification protocols and scale up.
- Partner cross-functionally with engineering and assay development teams to translate functional requirements into robust, manufacturable process specifications and ensure wafer-level performance aligns with system-level needs.
- Contribute to design history file (DHF) documentation and support regulatory submissions as needed.
Qualifications
- Deep hands‑on experience in semiconductor or MEMS wafer fabrication process development, with expertise in photolithography, etch, and thin‑film deposition.
- Familiarity with common cleanroom fabrication and metrology equipment
- Experience in wafer‑level design and integration spanning complete end‑to‑end system development.
- Demonstrated experience developing and qualifying processes in a cleanroom environment, including process characterization.
- Strong background in failure analysis and root cause investigation methodologies applicable to wafer fabrication defects and yield loss.
- Experience with IVD, microfluidic, or life science device fabrication is strongly preferred.
- Familiarity with surface functionalization chemistries relevant to biological assays (e.g., silanization, SAM deposition, antibody or oligonucleotide immobilization) preferred.
- Knowledge of GMP/ISO 13485 quality system requirements as applied to medical device manufacturing preferred.
- Proficiency with statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP) for DOE preferred.
- Excellent documentation skills and experience authoring controlled process documents, protocols, and reports in a regulated environment.
- Strong cross‑functional communication and collaboration skills, with ability to interface effectively with engineers, scientists, and manufacturing personnel.
Education & Industry Experience
- B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field.
- Minimum experience of 6 years with B.S., 4 years with M.S. or Ph.D.
Why Join Sarmal
- Work on cutting‑edge genomics and molecular detection technologies
- Collaborate with a deeply technical, cross‑functional team
- Contribute to foundational platform development at an early stage
- Have visibility into and impact on core technical and strategic decisions
- Help shape the infrastructure, culture, and future direction of the company
Sarmal offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Company‑paid life insurance
- Generous paid time off
- Access to additional voluntary benefits, employee perks, and discount programs
- We are committed to supporting the well‑being of our employees and providing a strong foundation for both professional and personal success.
The anticipated salary range for this position is $105,000 – $160,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, location, relevant experience, skill set, and internal equity considerations.
EEO Statement
Sarmal is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity