Mechanical Engineer, Autonomous Vehicle

Bot; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Bot Auto is hiring a Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and validate mechanical systems for autonomous trucks. You will collaborate across disciplines to integrate components such as sensor racks and brackets and lead rapid prototyping and testing.

The role emphasizes hands-on fabrication, CAD proficiency, and adherence to safety standards in a fast-paced startup environment based in Houston, TX.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• 3+ years in mechanical design for automotive/autonomous systems.
• Proficient with CAD software (SolidWorks/CATIA) for mechanical components.
• Experience with CAE and simulation tools.
• Hands-on fabrication, 3D printing, and use of power/hand tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mechanical systems for autonomous vehicles.
• Conduct simulations to validate design concepts for performance and safety.
• Lead rapid prototyping and test of mechanical designs.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, and systems teams to integrate mechanical systems.
• Source and work with local fabrication and manufacturing suppliers.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues and implement corrective actions.
• Create and revise BOMs and establish retrofitting processes and QC standards.

Skills

Hands-on fabrication

3D printing

Power tools & hand tools

CAD software (SolidWorks/CATIA)

CAE & simulations

Mech design knowledge

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Job description

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.

This position requires on‑site work at our Houston, TX office.

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