Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer

We’re working with a pioneering technology company developing advanced robotic systems capable of precise, human-like interaction in real-world environments. Their work sits at the cutting edge of robotics, blending high-performance mechanical design with intelligent control and sensing.

They are seeking a Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of a next-generation robotic hand—an intricate, high-DOF system requiring exceptional precision, robustness, and integration.

The Role

In this role, you will own the mechanical architecture of a multi-fingered robotic hand , driving design from early concept through prototyping and into production. You’ll tackle complex challenges in dexterity, durability, and compact system integration while working closely with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Architect Advanced Manipulation Systems

• Define finger topology, joint architectures, palm structures, and load paths
• Balance dexterity, strength, weight, and manufacturability

Design High-Performance Mechanisms

• Develop multi-DOF joints and linkages capable of handling real-world forces, impacts, and off-axis loads
• Ensure durability across high cycle life applications

Co-Design Actuation Systems

• Partner with actuation engineers on tendon-driven or remote actuation solutions
• Optimize cable routing, transmission efficiency, and wear characteristics

Enable Human-Like Interaction

• Design for grasping, pinching, sliding, and tool use
• Tune compliance and stiffness for both precision and safe interaction

Own Analysis & Validation

• Lead FEA, stress, fatigue, and impact analysis
• Identify and mitigate failure modes including wear, loosening, and material fatigue

Drive Compact Integration

• Integrate actuation, sensing, and wiring into high-density mechanical systems

Prototype & Iterate

• Rapidly build and test prototypes, refining designs through hands‑on validation

Manufacturing & Scale‑Up

• Lead DFM/DFA, tolerancing, and process selection
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure production readiness
• Work cross-functionally with controls, perception, electrical, and software teams
• Mentor engineers and lead technical design reviews

What We’re Looking For

Core Experience

• Proven track record designing complex, high-precision mechanical systems or multi-DOF mechanisms
• Strong system-level thinking and mechanical architecture experience
• Expertise in tight-space packaging and integration

CAD & Geometry Expertise

• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks, NX, or CATIA , especially surfacing and complex geometries
• Deep understanding of structural behavior, fatigue, and real-world durability
• Experience designing for reliability under dynamic or contact-rich conditions

Leadership & Influence

• Ability to drive technical direction and align cross-functional teams
• Strong communication and design review skills

Relevant Industry Backgrounds

• Humanoid or dexterous robotics
• Medical or surgical robotics
• Prosthetics or biomechanical devices
• Semiconductor automation or micron-scale manipulation systems
• Defense, aerospace, or drone systems involving advanced actuation and control

Preferred Experience

• Robotic hands or anthropomorphic mechanisms
• Bio-inspired design or human hand biomechanics
• Tendon-driven or cable-actuated systems
• Compliant or soft robotics
• Tactile sensing or force feedback integration
• Advanced materials and surface treatments for wear and grip

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (M.S. preferred) or related field
• 8+ years of experience in complex mechanical system design

Why This Role

• Build highly sophisticated, real-world robotic systems
• Solve deeply challenging engineering problems at the intersection of mechanics and intelligence
• Work with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team
• Influence a product from concept through production