Principal Mechanical Engineer - (Future Forward)

Intuitive; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Intuitive is seeking a hands-on technical leader and architect of mechanical systems to spearhead the design and development of next-generation surgical robotics instruments platforms. This Principal/Senior Principal role owns the mechanical system architecture from concept through product launch and scaling, while mentoring teams.

You will lead architecture, design, and development of electromechanical and robotic instruments, direct end-to-end engineering, and collaborate across software,

Qualifications

• Lead mechanical system architecture for surgical robotics instruments.
• Mentor engineers and drive design reviews.
• Collaborate across disciplines to ensure system reliability and manufacturability.

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, and develop complex electromechanical and robotic instruments.
• Direct end-to-end engineering from requirements to verification/validation.
• Drive risk analyses and contribute to regulatory/compliance activities.

Skills

Mechanical design

Robotics

Leadership

Mentorship

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking a hands-on technical leader and architect of mechanical systems to spearhead the design and development of next-generation surgical robotics instruments platforms. This is a pivotal role in our Future Forward/Advanced Development teams, ideally suited for a Principal or Senior Principal Mechanical Engineer with proven vision, creativity, and technical depth. You will own the mechanical system architecture, from novel concept generation through product launch and scaling, while fostering interdisciplinary innovation and mentorship.

Key Responsibilities

Mechanical System Architecture & Design

• Architect, design, and develop complex electromechanical and robotic systems' instruments, and accessories for surgical applications.
• Direct the end-to-end engineering process: from user requirements and technical specifications to innovative concept generation, prototyping, and verification/validation.
• Guide technology and design decisions, balancing system reliability, manufacturability, risks, and clinical needs.

Project & Technical Leadership

• Structure, organize, and lead multi-disciplinary R&D initiatives across the product lifecycle.
• Mentor engineers across several projects, reviewing technical output, and fostering best practices.
• Drive technical reviews, risk analyses, and contribute to regulatory/standards compliance.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with software, electrical, systems, clinical, and manufacturing teams throughout product development.
• Observe clinical procedures and collaborate with clinicians to inform design and use requirements.
• Present complex concepts and data clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Rapidly develop and iterate functional prototypes to realize candidate architectures and design solutions.
• Contribute to patent development and IP strategy.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements and facilitate knowledge sharing across teams.