Mechanical Engineer, Autonomous Vehicle

Bot Auto; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Bot Auto in Houston is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our Autonomous Hardware team, focusing on the design, development and testing of mechanical systems for our autonomous vehicle platforms.

You will work with cross-functional teams, perform simulations, lead rapid prototyping, and ensure safety and manufacturing standards are met throughout the product lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• 3+ years in mechanical engineering, preferably automotive or autonomous vehicle.
• Hands-on fabrication, 3D printing, power tools and hand tools.
• Proficient in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA) and CAE tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mechanical systems and components for autonomous vehicles.
• Conduct simulations and analyses to validate design concepts and ensure safety standards.
• Lead rapid prototyping and function validation of designs.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and systems engineers to integrate mechanical systems into vehicle architecture.
• Source and collaborate with local fabrication and manufacture suppliers.
• Tear down and troubleshoot mechanical issues, provide innovative solutions to improve reliability.

Skills

Hands-on fabrication

3D printing

CAD software

CAE simulations

Automotive safety

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

CAD tools

Job description

Company Introduction

At Bot Auto, we build autonomous trucks to transform the way goods are transported and improve the quality of life for communities worldwide. With a start-up spirit yet long-established experience, Bot Auto has the most seasoned team that has delivered several world’s first and world’s only. Together, we share vision, we see and build miracles and we drive the future of transportation. Join us and turn your dream into something RUNNING.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our Autonomous Hardware team. The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and components for our autonomous vehicle platforms. This position requires a strong background in mechanical engineering, as well as a passion for innovation and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mechanical systems and components for autonomous vehicles, eg: sensor racks, equipment brackets, sensor cleaning system, etc.
• Conduct simulations and analyses to validate design concepts and ensure performance and safety standards are met.
• Lead rapid prototyping and function validation of the design.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineers, software developers, and systems engineers to integrate mechanical systems into the overall vehicle architecture.
• Source and collaborate with local fabrication and manufacture suppliers.
• Participate in the prototyping and testing of mechanical components, ensuring they meet specifications and performance requirements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues, providing innovative solutions to enhance vehicle performance and reliability.
• Conduct failure analysis and implement corrective actions to improve design and manufacturing processes.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in mechanical engineering and autonomous vehicle technology, applying new knowledge to ongoing projects.
• Create and maintain SOPs, train the technician for the truck retrofitting process.
• Create and revise BOMs to support the materials management.
• Establish the retrofitting process and quality control standards.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, preferably in the automotive or autonomous vehicle industry.
• Strong skills in hands‑on fabrication, 3D printing, power tools and hand tools.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, or equivalent) for designing mechanical components.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with CAE and other simulation tools.
• Knowledge of automotive safety standards and regulations.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to present technical information clearly and concisely.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with autonomous vehicle systems and technologies.
• Knowledge of robotics and mechatronics.
• Familiarity with sensor integration.
• Experience with additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping techniques.