Mechanical Design Engineer

Monograph; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative robotics company is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to drive the development of robotic systems. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience taking hardware products from concept to production, including a strong background in design for manufacturing and reliability. You will manage the mechanical design lifecycle and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure robust product designs. If you are hands-on and passionate about mechanical engineering innovation, we encourage you to apply. This role is based in California, USA.

Qualifications

• 7 years of experience bringing hardware products from concept to production.
• Strong portfolio of mechanical designs, preferably in robotics or automotive.
• Proficient in various manufacturing processes such as injection molding and machining.

Responsibilities

• Own the mechanical design lifecycle from concept to production.
• Develop manufacturing processes and ensure product reliability.
• Lead system integration and communicate effectively with teams.

Skills

Mechanical design

Prototyping

Reliability testing

DFM evaluation

Collaboration skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

FEA software

Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Design

Overview

• Product Design, Architecture, Scale OEM product experience

• Extensive experience in design for manufacturing, reliability, and process / materials science

• Relevant experience working with CMs and overseas vendors

• Experience with mobile bases or actuated moving systems, ideally in the home

We're looking for an experienced mechanical engineer to drive the integration and development of our robotic systems, leading innovative designs from concept to deployment. You'll own the full spectrum of mechanical development—from actuator sizing or design to kinematics and work with teams to prototype and ultimately produce systems at scale—ensuring reliability, deployability, and performance. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on innovator with deep expertise in mechatronic systems, combining theoretical knowledge with practical engineering skills. Experience with actuation systems, electromechanical integration, machine design, and a track record of bringing mechanical systems to life is essential. If this sounds like you, please apply!

What you’ll do

• Own the mechanical design lifecycle: from early concept and proof‑of‑concept prototypes to high‑volume production, driving all design decisions around 3D CAD, 2D drawings, material selection, and manufacturability.

• Develop and refine manufacturing processes: Identify and optimize injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, adhesives, and bonding methods for new and existing products.

• Ensure reliability and robustness: Perform and interpret reliability tests (HALT/HASS, tolerance stack‑ups, environmental testing) and lead corrective design actions.

• Leverage simulation for smart decisions: Use basic FEA tools (thermal, structural, vibrational) and first‑order analyses to validate or guide design from early phases onward.

• Lead system integration efforts: Collaborate with electrical and radio teams to balance thermal, EMI, mechanical stability, and accessibility needs in tightly integrated assemblies.

• Prototype and iterate quickly: Build proof‑of‑concept designs, run experiments, and translate findings into high‑yield, mass‑production‑ready solutions.

• Manage vendor relationships: Evaluate DFM, cost, yield, and timeline trade‑offs; work with JDM/CM/ODM partners; own and drive supplier selection where needed.

• Communicate effectively across teams: Conduct design reviews with cross‑functional stakeholders, clearly articulating design rationale, risks, and trade‑offs.

Qualifications

• Educational Background and Experience

• 7 years of experience taking hardware products from concept to production, with a strong portfolio of shipped mechanical designs, preferably in robotics, automotive, consumer product.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience.

• Technical Expertise

• Deep understanding of a wide range of high‑volume processes (e.g., injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, bonding).

• Familiarity from past experiences with HALT/HASS, FMEA, DOE methodologies, and test‑to‑failure approaches for robust mechanical design.

• Practical understanding of when and how to apply FEA tools; ability to make first‑order engineering judgments.

• Proven record of mechanically integrating electronics (sensors, PCBs, antennas, batteries) in complex assemblies.

• Ability to lead reviews, influence cross‑functional teams, and convey risks and solutions clearly.

• Hands‑On Skills

• Comfort in early‑stage, resource‑limited startup environments, with a willingness to get your hands dirty to move quickly.

• Proficiency in various prototyping methods, including machining (mill, lathe), sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, injection molding and other manufacturing processes.

• Experience building and testing prototypes.

• Ability to analyze failures and implement improvements.