Mechanical Systems Engineer (Fluids & Environmental Control)

About the Role

Rhoic is building next-generation electrospinning systems and water filtration technologies. We’re looking for a hands-on prototype engineer who thrives in fluid systems and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves in a startup lab environment. You’ll be working closely with the founding team to design, refine, and build critical components that bring our electrospinning and water testing systems to life. This is a dynamic environment; priorities and challenges will evolve as we learn, and we’re looking for someone who’s excited to grow with the role.

Responsibilities

- Design and refine polymer solution handling systems (tubing, fittings, reservoirs, pumps/pressure feed, return flow paths).

- Ensure material compatibility with aggressive solvents (formic acid, DMSO, DMF, acetone, etc.).

- Integrate fluid delivery into moving mechanical bases with reliable couplings.

- Contribute to sealing, environmental control, and venting of the electrospinning chamber (temperature, RH, solvent exhaust).

- Build and iterate prototypes using off-the-shelf components, machining, or 3D printing.

- Finalize and improve our water filter tester for reproducible performance data.

- Collaborate with the team as a co-designer: identify potential failure modes, propose creative solutions, and adapt designs as needs evolve.

Qualifications

- Strong background in fluid handling, chemical compatibility, or mechanical systems.

- Experience working with solvents, tubing/fittings, or lab fluid systems (academic, industrial, or maker-style).

- Hands-on prototyping skills: mechanical assembly, CAD basics, machining/3D printing

- Flexible problem-solver, able to adapt quickly in a dynamic startup setting.

What We Value

- Scrappiness and curiosity: you can improvise with what’s on hand but know when rigor is needed.

- Collaborative spirit: eager to work alongside founders and contribute ideas, not just execute tasks.

- Resilience in the face of unexpected challenges; see roadblocks as puzzles to solve.

- A sense of ownership: pride in building systems that work reliably and safely.

Compensation

This is a contractor role for 20-40 hours per week. Hourly rate proportional to relevant experience. Typical range:

.

Apply

To apply, submit an application here:

https://thinkable-dollar-7e1.notion.site/276677802f678011a465d8d633e2ac2a?pvs=143