Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Prototyping

Figureai; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Figureai, based in San Jose, is looking for a Mechanical Engineer focused on Thermal Prototyping. In this role, you will design, prototype, and test thermal solutions to enhance noise reduction and system reliability in humanoid robots.

Key responsibilities include creating 3D CAD models, running experiments, and performing thermal/acoustic tests. Candidates should have 2+ years of experience in relevant fields and a degree in Mechanical or Thermal Engineering.

The position offers a competitive salary range of $120,000 - $180,000 annually.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in hardware development.
• Experience conducting thermal and acoustic tests.
• Ability to document structured experiments.

Responsibilities

• Design and iterate 3D CAD models of thermal components.
• Prototype concepts using various methods.
• Run experiments to characterize noise and thermal loads.
• Evaluate fan characteristics to optimize acoustic signature.

Skills

3D CAD proficiency

Thermal testing

Prototype building

Familiarity with simulation tools

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or similar

Tools

CATIA V6

Job description

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer focused on Thermal Prototyping to rapidly design, prototype, and test thermal solutions that reduce noise and improve system reliability across our robot platform. This role is extremely hands‑on: continuously building models, running benchtop experiments, instrumenting components, and helping push the boundaries of silent thermals for humanoid robotics.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and iterate 3D CAD models of thermal components: heat sinks, cold plates, airflow channels, fans, ducts, insulation, and passive/active cooling structures.
• Prototype concepts using FDM/SLA prints, CNC, sheet metal, foam, gasketing, and rapid thermal mockups.
• Run experiments that characterize noise sources and thermal loads across heat generating components including motors, gearboxes, electronics, and actuators.
• Evaluate fan characteristics and system impedance to optimize for minimal acoustic signature.
• Instrument prototypes with thermocouples, microphones, accelerometers, airflow sensors, and DAQ hardware.
• Perform thermal bench testing, steady‑state and transient measurements, and acoustic testing (near‑field, far‑field).
• Perform smoke tests, dye flow visualization, and IR thermography to understand heat flow and hotspot mechanisms.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical, thermal, or electromechanical hardware development.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar.
• Strong 3D CAD proficiency.
• Experience building prototypes and running hands‑on thermal/acoustic tests.
• Familiarity with simulation tools (CFD, FEA, or equivalent).
• Comfort working with fans, heat sinks, interface materials, and general thermal componentry.
• Ability to design, execute, and document structured experiments.

Bonus Qualifications

• Background in acoustic modeling, vibration damping, or noise isolation techniques.
• Experience with DAQs, IR cameras, sound chambers, hot‑wire anemometers, or other instrumentation.
• CATIA V6 experience.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $120,000 - $180,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.