Senior R&D Engineer
Vital Bio
Other Engineering
Oakville, ON, Canada
USD 90k-105k / year
Posted on May 9, 2026
About You:
You are an experienced, hands-on engineer who enjoys turning complex ideas into robust hardware and improving how systems perform. You thrive in prototype-heavy environments, where you can design, build, and test electromechanical systems, solve problems methodically, and help move products from concept toward realization. You’re comfortable with ambiguity, able to work independently, and motivated by the opportunity to shape meaningful products in a fast-paced startup environment.
- Department
- Engineering
- Employment Type
- Full Time
- Location
- Oakville, Ontario HQ
- Workplace type
- Onsite
- Compensation
- $90,000 - $105,000 / year
- Reporting To
- Said Ehrlich
What you'll do:
- Lead the design, build, and testing of hardware prototypes and subassemblies.
- Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical issues on prototype systems and drive root cause investigations.
- Develop and modify test setups, fixtures, and tools to support development, verification, and validation activities.
- Collect, analyze, and document test data to evaluate performance, reliability, and design tradeoffs.
- Collaborate with hardware, systems, mechatronics, manufacturing, and quality teams to solve technical problems and improve designs.
- Prepare engineering documentation including test plans, summaries, build records, and technical issue notes.
- Contribute to design reviews, prototype iterations, and technical decision-making.
- Help maintain an organized, safe, and efficient lab and prototyping workspace.
What you'll need:
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, biomedical engineering, physics, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience in hardware development, prototyping, test engineering, or a related technical role.
- Strong hands-on skills and familiarity with lab, shop, and debugging tools.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
- Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a structured approach to troubleshooting.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical findings effectively.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
- Comfort taking ownership of assigned projects and driving them to completion.
Bonus points for
- Experience with electromechanical systems, robotics, or diagnostic devices.
- Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks.
- Basic scripting or programming experience for data analysis or test automation.
- Exposure to structured testing, root cause analysis, or verification and validation work.
- Experience in a startup, R&D lab, or prototype-heavy environment.
- An appreciation for puns and being part of a supportive, curious team.
Why Join Us?
At Vital Bio, you will:
- Help build the hardware that powers next-generation diagnostics, working alongside engineers who value curiosity, rigor, and practical problem-solving.
- You’ll have hands-on ownership across design, prototyping, and testing, with the opportunity to influence products that can make a real difference in patient care.
- As part of a fast-moving team, you’ll take on meaningful responsibility, grow your technical depth, and help shape an environment that values collaboration and continuous improvement.
Compensation will be determined based on the individual’s demonstrated experience, education, training, relevant certifications or licensure, and other applicable business and organizational factors.
This role is a current, onsite vacancy.
About Vital Bio
Vital is revolutionizing point-of-care diagnostics with our VitalOne platform, delivering real-time care wherever patients are. Our mission is to democratize health technology, making healthcare more accessible and proactive.
Our global team of experts spans chemistry, software, engineering, and microfluidics. We thrive on change, operate on trust, and value diverse perspectives. Our growth-minded culture empowers front-line decision-making and fosters impactful work.
We seek tenacious, bold individuals ready to transform healthcare. At Vital, your talent will make a difference as we work to ensure everyone has access to care when and where they need it.
Vital Biosciences Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are therefore happy to accommodate any individual needs in keeping with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If you require accommodation in order to participate in our hiring process, please contact us to make your needs known in advance
As part of our recruitment process, we may use automated or AI-supported tools to assist with application review and screening. These tools are used to support, not replace, human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are always made by our hiring team.
Not quite right? Register your interest to be notified of any roles that come along that meet your criteria.