BiVACOR Inc

Restoring Lives with Revolutionary Technology

BiVACOR is a clinical-stage medical device company pioneering the development of a long-term therapy for patients with biventricular heart failure. Founded in 2008 by Dr. Daniel Timms, the company has created the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH), an electro-mechanical rotary blood pump that utilizes magnetic levitation (MAGLEV) technology to simultaneously pump blood to both the body and the lungs. With over $60 million in funding and a recent FDA-approved first-in-human implantation in July 2024, BiVACOR is transitioning from a breakthrough innovation to a life-saving reality for the estimated 100,000 patients who could benefit from mechanical circulatory support.

A Culture of Purpose and Innovation

At BiVACOR, the culture is deeply rooted in its mission to give patients with end-stage heart failure a second chance at life. The team comprises a passionate group of engineers, scientists, and medical specialists who collaborate closely to solve complex cardiovascular engineering challenges. The environment is described as one of purpose, performance, and momentum. Employees are encouraged to take on "many hats," reflecting the dynamic and fast-paced nature of a clinical-stage startup. Collaboration and recognition are core values, with a strong emphasis on working hard to achieve a shared, life-saving goal.

What You'll Actually Do

Work at BiVACOR is highly specialized and impact-driven. Engineers (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, and Software) focus on refining the TAH's design, ensuring its durability, biocompatibility, and optimal performance. For instance, you might work on the smart controller that adapts pump operation to patient activity, or the MAGLEV suspension system that eliminates mechanical wear. Quality and Manufacturing teams in Huntington Beach, CA, ensure that the devices meet stringent FDA and clinical trial standards. The work involves rigorous testing, cleanroom packaging, and continuous iteration alongside luminaries in cardiovascular surgery.

Compensation & Benefits

BiVACOR offers competitive compensation packages for a clinical-stage MedTech startup. Engineering roles typically see salaries ranging from $89K to $180K, depending on seniority and specialization. For example, Senior Electrical Engineers can expect between $114K and $180K, while Manufacturing Engineers range from $110K to $130K. The company provides comprehensive benefits, including a 401(k) with company matching, as well as medical, dental, and vision insurance. While equity details are not widely publicized, the opportunity to work on a transformative medical device adds significant intrinsic value to the compensation package.

The Interview Process

The interview process at BiVACOR is rigorous, reflecting the critical nature of their product. Candidates can expect a multi-stage process that assesses both technical expertise and alignment with the company's mission. Interviews typically include behavioral and scenario-based questions to gauge how candidates handle the pressures and "many hats" of a startup environment. For engineering roles, technical assessments focus on relevant skills such as CAD, electrical design, or quality control standards. Candidates are advised to prepare for questions that test their problem-solving abilities and their passion for the company's life-saving mission.

Why Join / Why Not

Why Join: If you are driven by the desire to do the most meaningful work of your career, BiVACOR offers a rare opportunity to be part of a team building history. The chance to work on a device that directly saves lives, combined with the intellectual challenge of cutting-edge MAGLEV technology, makes it an incredibly rewarding environment.

Why Not: The stakes are incredibly high, and the regulatory and clinical trial processes can be long and arduous. The "many hats" culture means you must be comfortable with ambiguity and rapid context switching. If you prefer a highly structured corporate environment with predictable, low-stress routines, the intensity of a clinical-stage medical device startup might not be the right fit.