Robotics Build Engineer

Foundation; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, vision, dental, 401k benefits

Job summary

Foundation aims to revolutionize robotics in San Francisco by hiring engineers to build humanoid robots. The role requires assembling robotic subsystems, interpreting mechanical designs, and maintaining high standards in a collaborative environment.

Ideal candidates should have experience with CAD tools, building hardware systems, and possess strong problem-solving abilities. Join us to address labor shortages through innovative robotic solutions.

Qualifications

• Mission-driven, highly dedicated, curious with complex challenges.
• Driven to overcome obstacles and accept limitations.
• Clear communicator and collaborative teammate.

Responsibilities

• Assemble and test humanoid robotic subsystems with precision.
• Interpret mechanical drawings and wiring diagrams.
• Identify build challenges and improve designs.
• Support rapid prototyping and hardware validation.
• Create documentation such as work instructions and test procedures.

Skills

Experience building humanoid robots or complex hardware systems

Experience with CAD tools like SolidWorks or Onshape

Familiarity with hardware documentation practices

Hands-on experience in assembling, testing, or debugging

Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings

Familiarity with mechanical and electrical tools

Exposure to hardware testing and validation

Strong problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Onshape

Job description

About Us

Foundation is developing the future of general purpose robotics with the goal to address the labor shortage. Our mission is to create advanced robots that can operate in complex environments, reducing human risk in conflict zones and enhancing efficiency in labor‑intensive industries. We are on the lookout for extraordinary engineers and scientists to join our team. Your previous experience in robotics isn’t a prerequisite — it’s your talent and determination that truly count. We expect that many of our team members will bring diverse perspectives from various industries and fields. We are looking for individuals with a proven record of exceptional ability and a history of creating things that work.

Our Culture

We like to be frank and honest about who we are, so that people can decide for themselves if this is a culture they resonate with. Please read more about our culture at https://foundation.bot/culture.

Who Should Join

• You like working in person with a team in San Francisco.
• You deeply believe that this is the most important mission for humanity and needs to happen yesterday.
• You are highly technical – regardless of the role you are in. We are building technology; you need to understand technology well.
• You care about aesthetics and design inside out. If it’s not the best product ever, it bothers you, and you need to “fix” it.
• You don't need someone to motivate you; you get things done.

Why We Are Hiring for This Role

• Assemble and test humanoid robotic subsystems and complete systems through to final integration and bring‑up with precision and care.
• Interpret and contribute to mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams and assembly instructions.
• Identify build challenges and provide feedback to improve designs and processes.
• Support rapid prototyping, iteration and hardware validation.
• Create documentation such as work instructions, BOMs and test procedures.
• Troubleshoot hardware and electromechanical issues during assembly and testing.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe build environment.
• Partner with supply chain and operations teams to evaluate components and materials.

What Kind of Person We Are Looking For

• Experience building humanoid robots or complex hardware systems through professional experience, internships, research labs, or academic projects.
• Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks or Onshape.
• Familiarity with version control or basic hardware documentation practices.
• Experience with robotics hardware such as actuators, sensors, harnesses, motors & PCBs.
• Hands‑on experience assembling, testing, or debugging mechanical or electromechanical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and wiring diagrams.
• Familiarity with mechanical and electrical tools (e.g., torque drivers, soldering, multimeters, etc.).
• Exposure to hardware testing, validation, and/or lab environments.
• Mission‑driven, highly dedicated, curious and prepared to tackle complex challenges.
• Driven to overcome difficult obstacles and refuse to accept limitations.
• Willing and able to support long hours, including weekends when needed.
• Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Engineering field (or significant relevant professional experience in lieu of an engineering degree).
• Open to engineering candidates with strong internships, co‑ops, or 1–2 years of total professional experience, as well as those with additional hands‑on experience.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and comfort working in a fast‑paced, iterative setting.
• Clear communicator and collaborative teammate.
• Detail‑oriented, self‑motivated, and willing to contribute beyond assigned tasks.

Benefits

We provide market standard benefits (health, vision, dental, 401k, etc.). Join us for the culture and the mission, not for the benefits.

Salary

The annual compensation is expected to be between $115,000 – $150,000. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.