Lead Mechanical Engineer

Job Title: Lead Mechanical Engineer – Autonomous Robotics Location: San Antonio, Texas Department: Engineering Reports To: Hardware Engineering Manager Job Type: Full-Time About Renu Robotics Renu Robotics is a leader in autonomous technology for vegetation management. We build all-electric, autonomous machines that help maintain large-scale sites safely, efficiently, and sustainably. Our culture values teamwork, quality, safety, and continuous improvement. At Renu Robotics, we believe: No one wins unless everyone wins. Job Summary We are seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive the design, development, and integration of industry-leading cutting‑edge autonomous robotic systems. This role will oversee mechanical design efforts across multiple projects, lead a team of engineers, and collaborate cross‑functionally to deliver robust, scalable, and high-performance autonomous systems. Key Responsibilities Lead the mechanical design, development, and testing of robotic platforms including chassis, actuators, enclosures, and integration of sensors and electronics. Own the full product development lifecycle from concept to commercialization, including prototyping, lab and field testing, and design iteration. Lead design reviews, DFMEA, documentation efforts, and change releases. Collaborate with electrical, software, and systems engineers to ensure mechanical and system-level integration. Apply DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly) principles for efficient production. Interface with vendors and suppliers for component sourcing, validation, prototyping, and manufacturing support. Ensure compliance with industry standard safety, reliability, and regulatory principles. Perform design verification and validation, and mechanical analysis (thermal, stress, dynamics). Develop and execute test plans for mechanical systems including field validation. Mentor junior engineers and establish best practices in mechanical design and systems engineering. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field from an accredited university. MS in Mechanical Engineering (preferred). 7+ years of mechanical design experience, preferably in robotics, automation, or complex mechatronic systems. Strong proficiency in SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM, 3D CAD modeling, and mechanical simulation tools (Ansys, FEA, CFD, tolerance stack analysis). Understand and apply GD&T standards. Solid grasp of EMI/EMC concepts including system‑level grounding and shielding. Designing for harsh environments (temperature, shock, vibration). Knowledge of CSA Class 1, Div 2, CE, and UL (preferred). Demonstrable track record of delivery of commercial products. Hands‑on experience with prototyping tools (e.g., 3D printing, CNC, sheet metal fabrication). Deep understanding of material selection, structural design, thermal management, and kinematics. Experience with electromechanical components such as actuators, stepper, and drive motors, gearboxes, sensors, and embedded systems. Excellent communication, leadership, and cross‑functional collaboration skills. Experience working within ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Framework and other regulated frameworks. Experience in commercial product/system delivery in harsh environments. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, NetSuite) and QMS systems (e.g., Arena, Adept, MasterControl). Experience leading engineering projects and teams. Preferred Experience Autonomous or semi-autonomous mobile robots (e.g., drones, AMRs, humanoids). Design for rugged environments (military, industrial, outdoor). Familiarity with robotics standards (ISO 10218, R15.06, etc.). Experience with agile development and rapid prototyping environments is a plus. Working knowledge of motion control, embedded systems, and system integration. Experience in a manufacturing environment. Experience ensuring product quality including standards, statistical methods, and testing. What We Offer Opportunity to work on breakthrough technologies in robotics. Be part of a global business. Collaborative and mission‑driven team culture. Competitive compensation and benefits package. #J-18808-Ljbffr