Element Science, Inc. is a medical device and digital health company focused on developing solutions at the intersection of clinical-grade wearables, machine learning algorithms, and lifesaving therapies in order to address leading causes of death and hospitalization in patients with heart disease, primarily as they transition from the hospital-to-home. By putting the needs of patients and physicians first, our personalized digital devices, which are designed for function, comfort, and ease-of-use, aim to redefine the paradigm of care for these patients.  Our first product, a wearable patch defibrillator, is initially targeted at treating the more than 500,000 patients in the US with an elevated temporary risk of potentially experiencing a lethal heart rhythm.  Headquartered in San Francisco, our funders include Third Rock Ventures, Google Ventures, Deerfield Healthcare, Qiming Venture Partners USA, Cormorant Asset Management, and Invus Opportunities.

PRINCIPAL ALGORITHMS & DATA SYSTEMS ENGINEER

SUMMARY OF ROLE:

Imagine building algorithms that directly save lives. At Element Science, we're on a mission to change how sudden cardiac events are detected, treated, and prevented, starting with our breakthrough wearable technology. As our Principal Algorithms & Data Systems Engineer, you'll lead the development of cutting-edge algorithms that power life-saving interventions and provide data insights that shape our future product evolution. This is a rare opportunity to operate at the intersection of machine learning, physiological signal processing, and cloud-scale data analysis with the chance to see your work make a direct, tangible impact on patient lives. If you have the following, we would love to hear from you:

• You’re a hands-on technical leader who thrives in startup environments and enjoys working close to both product development and patient outcomes.

• You’re fluent in the language of data, and confident architecting algorithmic solutions that span edge devices and the cloud.

• You’ve led complex algorithm efforts from concept through regulatory approval and commercialization and understand the rigor required in the medical space.

• You balance theory and pragmatism; you know when to reach for deep learning vs. robust signal processing, and how to explain your decisions to a cross-functional team.

This is a hybrid role based in our Potrero Hill, San Francisco, California office.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Invent and lead the design, development, and testing of algorithms used to detect and respond to critical cardiac events in our wearable medical device.

• Shape the future of our Cloud-based analytics platform, developing algorithms that interpret device data and generate meaningful clinical and operational insights.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to define system-level requirements, data flows, and scalable machine learning pipelines in partnership with Software, Cloud, and Product teams.

• Build the foundation for scalable ML development processes, from data curation to model validation and deployment.

• Lead with influence, serving as a technical mentor across engineering and contributing to the strategic direction of our data science roadmap.

• Support clinical and commercial success by providing robust, validated algorithms and hands-on support during studies, deployments, and product iterations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in CS, EE, Physics, Math, or related field; advanced degree preferred.

• 8+ years of industry experience in algorithm development, ideally including regulated product development (e.g., medical devices).

• Deep knowledge of ML fundamentals, model selection, training, and validation.

• Strong mathematical foundation: linear algebra, statistics, optimization.

• Expert in Python (NumPy, SciPy, scikit-learn, etc.). MATLAB proficiency is a bonus; C/C++ familiarity helpful for embedded understanding.

• Experience working in or leading cross-functional teams including software, systems, and clinical development.

• Proven success navigating algorithm development from feasibility to commercial launch.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

EEXTRA CREDIT (Nice to Have, NOT Required): 

• Physiological signals (ECG, PPG, EEG, etc.)

• Digital signal processing techniques

• AWS or other cloud platforms for data processing

• Predictive analytics in a healthcare or clinical setting

• Building compliant pipelines in GxP, HIPAA, or FDA-regulated environments

BENEFITS:

Element Science offers a very competitive salary and benefits package including, but not limited to:

• Stock Options
• 90% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid Basic Life Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan (Traditional and Roth)
• Competitive Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• FSA (Flexible Spending Accounts)
• HSA (Health Savings Account)
• Employee Assistance Program through PEO

The salary for this exempt-level position will be based on experience and qualifications within an established pay range.

• Pay range: $200,000 - $210,000 

Element Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications for the job in question. We do not base our employment decision on an employee's or applicant's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors prohibited by local, state, or federal law.