Jason Escalera
Encinitas,CA
Summary
Mechanical Engineer with hands-on experience in systems integration, testing, and automation across biotechnology and oceanographic research. Skilled in firmware, software, and hardware integration, with expertise in FMEA, DOE, CAD, and advanced instrumentation. Known for optimizing system performance, ensuring product reliability, and delivering high-quality solutions through cross-functional collaboration.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Systems Support Engineer 2 - Product Development
Illumina
04.2022 - Current
- Led system integration and testing across all product development phases for Next-Generation Sequencing technologies, ensuring smooth operation of firmware, software, and hardware components
- Managed the lifecycle of a large fleet of NGS devices from early breadboard test beds to prototypes and final production, overseeing critical stages of production
- Performed FMEA to identify and mitigate potential failure points in the system, reducing risk and ensuring operational stability
- Applied DOE to optimize system performance and drive innovation through structured testing and analysis
- Monitored and managed critical system parameters to ensure alignment with project specifications and performance benchmarks
- Collaborated cross-functionally with engineering, R&D, and manufacturing teams to deliver high-quality products, achieving tight timelines and project milestones
Automation Integration Engineer
Biosero, Inc.
San Diego, CA
06.2021 - 04.2022
- Collaborated with internal teams to ensure successful completion of projects.
- Maintained existing integrations, troubleshooting issues and providing support.
- Performed lab automation integration with robotic instruments and Green Button Go scheduling software.
- Assisted with development and testing of Green Button Go Software application processes.
- Conducted communication (COM, serial, Ethernet) and commissioning on several instrumentation.
- Documented Site Operational Acceptance Testing (SOATS).
- Assisted with FAT and SAT operations.
- Developed and implemented integration solutions to meet customer requirements.
Mechanical Engineer R&D
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
06.2019 - 07.2021
- Designed and fabricated oceanic instrumentation
- Managed prototyping and applied fabrication techniques to cut cost and speed up development time on projects
- Performed drawings on mechanical components using GD&T (ASME Y14.5) with emphasis on design for manufacturability
- Integrated electrical and mechanical components for data collection
- Deployed instruments and collected data out at sea
Education
Bachelor of Science Degree - Mechanical Engineering
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, California06.2021
Skills
- Software & Tools: Python, Linux, MATLAB, Arduino, Microsoft Excel, Jira
- Systems Integration & Testing: FMEA, DOE, Product Life-Cycle Management, Critical Parameter Management
- CAD & Design: SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360, ANSYS, Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
- Instrumentation: Optical, Fluidic, Electromechanical, Chemical, and Pneumatic Systems
Accomplishments
- UC San Diego Undergraduate Robotic Competition, High Quality Design Feature Award, 2018
- Autonomous Profile Explore, Hardware integration design and tooling for airfoil shear probe technology onto future fleet of AUV's. Pressure case and O-ring designer., 2020
- ASME IMECE2021 Technical Paper Publication, Design and Testing of DiMES Carbon Ablation Rods in the DIII-I Tokamak, 2021
Timeline
Systems Support Engineer 2 - Product Development
Illumina
04.2022 - Current
Automation Integration Engineer
Biosero, Inc.
06.2021 - 04.2022
Mechanical Engineer R&D
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
06.2019 - 07.2021
Bachelor of Science Degree - Mechanical Engineering
University of California, San Diego