Electromechanical Engineer

TerraFirma Job OpportunityAt TerraFirma, we're redefining how the world moves earth for construction. Founded by former SpaceX engineers and backed by Kleiner Perkins and Bain Capital Ventures, TerraFirma is automating construction to make it faster, cheaper, and safer.Our Story & MissionAt SpaceX, we were part of the teams that built the largest rocket in human history, launched the largest constellation of satellites ever made, and delivered connectivity to millions of people worldwide. What we learned was simple: infrastructure is everything.At Starbase, the biggest barrier to launching missions to Mars was not building the rocket. It was how slow, expensive, and complex it was to build the infrastructure around it. We lacked buildings, roads, water, power, communications, and waste management, and constructing them took far more time and resources than it should have.From a first-principles perspective, that doesn't make sense. It shouldn't be this hard or costly to create the foundations for progress. That's when we realized something important: the same engineering mindset that enabled us to tackle space exploration and mass manufacturing could be applied to infrastructure. By bringing the principles of simplification, iteration, acceleration, and automation to construction, we can unlock a new era in how the world builds.Accelerating infrastructure unlocks progress across every domain, creating a self-sustaining engine for tackling humanity's toughest challenges. The innovations we develop on Earth will lay the groundwork for the technologies that one day make settlement on Mars possible.Job OverviewDesign, prototype, and deploy rugged electromechanical systems that integrate precision mechanical design with robust electrical components. Develop enclosures, actuators, linkages, and wiring harnesses built for extreme conditions. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to rapidly prototype, test, and refine systems for reliable real-world performance.ResponsibilitiesDesign mechanical systems with enclosures, actuators, linkages, mounts, and custom brackets for remote operation of heavy machineryRapidly prototype and iterate using 3D printing, CNC machining, and other in-house fabrication methodsWork with internal engineering teams, vendors, and manufacturers to ensure designs are feasible and cost-effectiveBuild and test electromechanical assemblies designed to survive vibration, impact, water ingress, and outdoor exposure.Integrate wiring harnesses with mechanically secure routing, protection, and strain reliefDiagnose and repair mechanical and electrical components using standard tools and hands-on evaluationCollaborate with vendors and fabricators to produce reliable, field-ready mechanical parts and electrical componentsMaintain CAD models, mechanical drawings, and build documentation to support repeatable assemblyBasic QualificationsB.S. in Electromechanical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics EngineeringHands-on experience designing and assembling mechanical systems with actuators and sensorsProficient in mechanical prototyping using 3D printing, machining, and basic fabrication toolsFamiliarity with field deployment challenges like mechanical fatigue, waterproofing, and ruggedizationAbility to collaborate across disciplines with electrical and software teamsPreferred Skills & ExperienceExperience designing electromechanical systems for Drones, Electric Vehicles, Aircraft, or Robotics strongly preferredStrong mechanical design of electronics enclosures for extreme environmentsExperience with motion systems including brushless DC motors, multi-bar linkages, kinematics, basic microcontroller programmingExperience with structural analysis and material selection for outdoor, high-impact environmentsFamiliarity with sensor integration and other motion feedback componentsUnderstanding of EMI shielding, thermal management, and protective enclosure designExperience routing wiring harnesses in mobile or vibration-prone systemsProficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape, or similar) and mechanical documentationA strong understanding of Electrical Engineering principles, experience with electrical design, and hands on experience with building electrical systemsAdditional RequirementsMust be willing to work extended hours or weekends when needed to support critical deadlines or triage urgent deployment issuesComfortable with working in a fast-paced startup environmentMust be willing to relocate to Austin, TX if not within commuting distanceCompensation & BenefitsBase compensation will vary based on factors such as relevant experience and education. Salaries and leveling will be determined on a case-by-case basis if an offer is extended. Our total compensation package also includes equity in TerraFirma. Relocation packages are available to help cover moving costs, if applicable.