Manufacturing Design Engineer (NPI & Robotics)

Skild AI; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Skild AI is seeking a talented Manufacturing Design Engineer in San Mateo, California. The role involves supporting the transition of robotic prototypes into production, focusing on mechanical design and hands-on assembly. Candidates should have experience using CAD tools, assembling robotic systems, and understanding DFM/DFA principles. The position offers a salary range of $100,000 to $300,000 USD and requires a passion for innovation and robotics.

Qualifications

• Background in technician, assembly, robotics, or shop-heavy environment.
• Professional experience in functional parts or mechanical design using CAD.
• Ability to perform tasks like crimping, soldering, and cable harness fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Use CAD tools to design and iterate on assembly jigs and test fixtures.
• Perform full-system assembly of robotic prototypes and production units.
• Create and maintain assembly procedures and bills of materials.

Skills

Mechanical design

CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360)

Hands-on prototyping

Understanding of DFM/DFA

Electrical schematics reading

Tools

3D printing

Mills

Lathes

Job description

Company Overview

At Skild AI, we are building the world's first general purpose robotic intelligence that is robust and adapts to unseen scenarios without failing. We believe massive scale through data‑driven machine learning is the key to unlocking these capabilities for the widespread deployment of robots within society. Our team consists of individuals with varying levels of experience and backgrounds, from new graduates to domain experts. Relevant industry experience is important, but ultimately less so than your demonstrated abilities and attitude. We are looking for passionate individuals who are eager to explore uncharted waters and contribute to our innovative projects.

Position Overview

The Manufacturing Design Engineer will support the transition of robotic prototypes into small‑scale production. This role combines mechanical design with hands‑on assembly, working directly with hardware to ensure systems can be built, tested, and maintained reliably. You will design the fixtures, tooling, and processes required to assemble and operate a small fleet of robots, while collaborating closely with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and build efficiency as designs evolve.

Responsibilities

• Use CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar) to design and iterate on assembly jigs, test fixtures, and specialized tooling that improve build speed and repeatability.
• Perform full‑system assembly of robotic prototypes and small‑batch production units, integrating mechanical, electrical, and sensing components.
• Build and route cable harnesses, integrate sensors and actuators, and bring robotic subsystems together into functional platforms.
• Provide DFM/DFA feedback during early design phases to identify assembly challenges and improve robustness, serviceability, and scalability.
• Create and maintain assembly procedures, bills of materials (BOMs), and test protocols that enable consistent builds across the fleet.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in a technician, assembly, robotics, or shop‑heavy environment. Comfortable using common hand tools, power tools, and lab equipment.
• Professional experience designing functional parts, fixtures, or mechanical systems in a modern CAD environment.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and perform tasks such as crimping, soldering, and cable harness fabrication.
• Experience working with evolving hardware designs and supporting the transition from prototype to production.
• Experience writing manufacturing process instructions (MPIs) or assembly documentation.
• Hands‑on prototyping experience with 3D printing, mills, or lathes.
• Familiarity with hardware version control processes (ECOs/ECNs) and documentation systems.
• Experience building or assembling robotic systems.

Compensation

Base Salary Range: $100,000 USD - $300,000 USD