Mechanical Design Engineer

We’re looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer to take complete end-to-end ownership of our flagship product’s core subsystem: the End Effector .

This is a true generalist role for a hands-on engineer who thrives in high-autonomy, fast-paced startup environments. You will drive designs from first-principles hand calculations and FEA analysis, build and machine your own prototypes in-house, and integrate complex electromechanical systems alongside world-class software and electrical teams.

What You’ll Do

• Subsystem Ownership: Own the End Effector end-to-end—from initial CAD and trade studies to shop fabrication, assembly, and field validation.
• Electromechanical Integration: Package sensors, load cells, precision linear motion components (ball screws, linear stages, bearings), and actuation modules within tight spatial tolerances.
• Analytical Validation: Validate all designs upfront using hand calculations, FEA, and tolerance stack-up analysis before entering production.
• Rapid Fabrication: Work hands-on in our in-house machine shop using steel and aluminum fabrication to compress hardware iteration cycles from months to days.
• Cross-Functional Ownership: Collaborate directly with electrical, software, and controls teams to define sensing and control requirements.

What We’re Looking For

• Location: Available to work 100% on-site 5 days/week in San Francisco, CA.
• Experience: 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience (including 1–4+ years specifically designing precision electromechanical systems in robotics, aerospace, or automotive).
• Robotics Track Record: Proven background designing and deploying complex robotic subsystems (actuation, motion, or perception integration).
• Analytical Discipline: Demonstrated fluency in FEA and first-principles hand calculations to validate physical models prior to manufacturing.
• Precision Motion Expertise: Deep experience with linear stages, ball screws, bearings, load cells, and multi-component tolerance stack-up analysis.
• Education: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent practical experience).

Bonus Points

• Hands-on proficiency with steel/aluminum CNC machining and shop tool usage.
• Prior experience in early-stage startups or lean engineering teams.