Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer Opportunity At Medra

At Medra, we're building an autonomous robotic platform that enables scientists to automate complex laboratory protocols and achieve continuous science with unmatched precision and scalability. By integrating advancements in AI, robotics, computer vision, and natural language processing, we are transforming how science is done to tackle some of humanity's greatest challenges—from curing disease to advancing climate technology and beyond.

Our goal is to enable the next biggest leap in scientific discovery, unlocking a world where experimental data generation is no longer limited by the pace of human scientists or the rigidity of traditional lab automation.

This is an ambitious mission, but we believe that a team of ambitious people with high ownership can accomplish incredible things.

We're a team of passionate, mission-driven engineers from companies like Tesla, Amazon, SpaceX, and Neuralink. We move fast, collaborate closely, and aren't afraid of intense discussions about design tradeoffs. We value curiosity, transparency, and empathy—both in how we build technology and how we work together.

The Role

We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer to help make our vision a reality. As one of our early hires, you'll work closely with the team to build flexible, reliable robotic automation solutions. You'll design, test, and implement hardware that allows our robots to fully automate customer protocols. This is a highly hands-on role in a fast-paced, experimental environment.

What You'll Do

• Analyze, test, validate, and iterate on mechanical systems.
• Create detailed CAD designs and accurate engineering drawings.
• Design, fabricate, and test hardware prototypes through rapid iteration.
• Develop robotic solutions to manipulate and control biology tools designed for humans.

What We're Looking For

• Strong mechanical intuition and hardware debugging/assembly skills.
• Passion for part design, material selection, and manufacturing techniques.
• Experience designing, building, testing, and scaling hardware systems.
• Proficiency with mechanical engineering tools and production best practices.
• Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping technologies.
• A hacker's mindset—ability to get to a good-enough solution quickly.
• Willingness to cross discipline boundaries and wear many hats.
• BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).

Bonus Points

• Experience managing PLM/document control systems.
• Mechatronics and circuit design background.
• Knowledge of robotics, motion control, and sensors (force/torque, camera systems).
• Familiarity with robot arm manipulators.
• Experience with robotics in laboratory or manufacturing environments.
• Experience writing code for robotics systems.

What We Offer

• 401(k) plan
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Relocation benefits
• Unlimited PTO
• Weekday dinners provided

Note: This position is 100% onsite in San Francisco, CA. Medra does not offer hybrid roles, but relocation assistance is available.