Mechanical Design Systems Engineer - Robotics and Automation (E3)

Applied Materials, Inc.; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Materials in Austin, TX seeks a Systems Engineer to design, integrate, and optimize complex automation systems for the semiconductor industry. You will analyze requirements, define architectures, and ensure high-quality, reliable solutions through cross-functional collaboration.

You will design fixtures and EOAT, validate parts, and help with FAT/SAT and commissioning on the shop floor, driving continuous improvement and robust integration with control layers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline.
• 4–8 years of experience in mechanical design and hands-on system integration.
• Proficiency with Siemens NX and/or SolidWorks for 3D modeling, assemblies, and drawings.
• Demonstrated experience designing and building custom fixturing, tooling, or automation equipment.
• Hands-on experience with electro-mechanical systems including actuators, sensors, linear motion, and pneumatics.
• Ability to read and create engineering drawings with GD&T.
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
• Comfortable working on the shop floor and in a lab/prototype environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills; ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external vendors.

Responsibilities

• Design custom fixturing, tooling, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), material handling systems, and layouts using NX and/or SolidWorks.
• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and drawings for fabrication and procurement.
• Design and integrate electro-mechanical systems including actuators, sensors, pneumatics, and motion components.
• Perform tolerance stack-ups, load calculations, and material selection.
• Hands-On Build, Integration & Commissioning: prototype, assemble, and test mechanical systems and sub-assemblies.
• Support installation and commissioning of automation equipment on the shop floor.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electro-mechanical issues during integration and production ramp.
• Collaborate with controls engineers and software developers to ensure seamless integration.

Skills

Mechanical design

System integration

3D modeling

GD&T

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Shop floor experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics or related

Tools

Siemens NX

SolidWorks

Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next‑generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.

We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company.

What We Offer

Salary: $120,000.00 - $165,000.00

Location: Austin, TX

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

About the Role

As a Systems Engineer, you’ll design, integrate, and optimize complex systems that drive the semiconductor industry forward. Your expertise in systems thinking and problem‑solving is essential as you collaborate with cross‑functional teams to develop advanced solutions to intricate processes and writing system specifications. You’ll be responsible for analyzing requirements, defining system architectures, conducting thorough testing, and ensuring seamless integration of subsystems. Additionally, you’ll identify and mitigate risks, confirming that our systems meet the highest quality standards and exceed customer expectations.

Location

This role sits onsite in Austin, TX.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• 4–8 years of experience in mechanical design and hands‑on system integration, preferably in an automation, capital equipment, or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with Siemens NX and/or SolidWorks for 3D modeling, assemblies, and drawings.
• Demonstrated experience designing and building custom fixturing, tooling, or automation equipment.
• Hands‑on experience with electro‑mechanical systems including actuators, sensors, linear motion, and pneumatics.
• Ability to read and create engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T.
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
• Comfortable working on the shop floor and in a lab/prototype environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills; ability to work effectively with cross‑functional teams and external vendors.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing systems for cleanroom environments or familiarity with cleanroom compatibility requirements.
• Experience with robotic integration, including EOAT design for collaborative or industrial robots.
• Exposure to controls engineering concepts (PLC, sensors, I/O) sufficient to collaborate effectively with controls engineers.
• Experience supporting FAT/SAT and equipment commissioning activities.

Mechanical & Electro‑Mechanical Design

• Design custom fixturing, tooling, end‑of‑arm tooling (EOAT), material handling systems, and automation station layouts using Siemens NX and/or SolidWorks.
• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings for fabrication and procurement.
• Design and integrate electro‑mechanical systems including actuators, sensors, pneumatics, and motion components.
• Perform design analysis including tolerance stack‑ups, load calculations, and material selection.
• Hands‑On Build, Integration & Commissioning: Prototype, assemble, and test mechanical systems and sub‑assemblies.
• Support installation and commissioning of automation equipment on the shop floor.
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electro‑mechanical issues during integration and production ramp.
• Collaborate with controls engineers and software developers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems with control and software layers.

Collaboration & Project Execution

• Take direction from the Technical Program Manager and Engineering Manager on project priorities and timelines.
• Work with external vendors and system integrators on component sourcing, custom fabrication, and equipment integration.
• Participate in design reviews, FAT/SAT, and commissioning activities.
• Maintain clear documentation including BOMs, assembly instructions, and design change records.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve mechanical system reliability, manufacturability, and maintainability.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective action for mechanical failures.
• Apply DFM (Design for Manufacturability) and DFA (Design for Assembly) principles.

Functional Knowledge

• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals including statics, dynamics, materials, and mechanisms.
• Ability to translate automation concepts into practical, buildable mechanical designs.
• Familiarity with fabrication methods including machining, sheet metal, and additive manufacturing.
• Knowledge of component sourcing and vendor management for mechanical and electro‑mechanical parts.

Problem Solving

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve mechanical and electro‑mechanical issues.
• Ability to iterate quickly between design, prototype, and test cycles.
• Creative problem solver who can develop practical solutions under timeline and budget constraints.

Interpersonal Skills

• Clear communicator who can work effectively with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Collaborative team player who can coordinate across engineering disciplines and with external vendors.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple design and build tasks simultaneously.
• Adaptable to changing project requirements and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Impact

Enable the deployment of automation solutions that drive operational efficiency and productivity. Deliver robust, maintainable mechanical systems that reduce manual intervention and improve process reliability. Contribute to the success of the Automation Technology Group by bridging the gap between design intent and real‑world implementation.

Working Conditions

Primarily onsite in Austin, TX. Mix of office/design environment and shop floor/lab environment. Occasional travel may be required to support commissioning or vendor coordination (~20%).

Additional Information

Time Type: Full time

Employee Type: Assignee / Regular

Travel: Yes, 20% of the Time

Relocation Eligible: Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job‑related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable. For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e‑mail at [e-mail], or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877‑612‑7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.