Robotics Instrument Design Engineer for Surgical Systems

SupportFinity™; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 136,100 - 195,900; Full time

Job summary

Intuitive Surgical in Sunnyvale, CA, is seeking a hands‑on Mechanical Engineer focused on robotic instrument design for early‑phase development. You will join a small, innovative team, tackling complex mechanical, materials, and manufacturing challenges to advance minimally invasive robotic systems.

You will collaborate across disciplines, create CAD models and fixtures, document tests, and contribute to prototype quality and regulatory readiness.

Qualifications

• Experience in cross‑functional R&D teams.
• Solid experience with metals/plastics and fabrication processes.
• Familiar with design lifecycle: design to transfer.
• Proficient CAD documentation; SolidWorks preferred.
• Knowledge of ASME/ISO drafting standards.
• Understanding manufacturing processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

• Work in cross‑functional teams to design mechanical subsystems for a novel robotic platform.
• Design and document components and assemblies for instruments and accessories.
• Develop and troubleshoot testing fixtures and methods.
• Create manufacturing fixtures and instructions.
• Analyze prototypes, test results, and implement design changes.
• Prepare protocols, reports, and design presentations.
• Collaborate with software, electrical, clinical, and manufacturing colleagues.
• Maintain SolidWorks databases and detailed drawings.
• Observe clinical cases to inform designs with clinicians.
• Support pre‑clinical and clinical labs.
• Assist with patent documentation.

Skills

Cross-functional teams

Metals

Plastics

Welding

Extrusions

Testing

Process equipment

Adhesives

Disposable medical products

SolidWorks CAD

CAD (SolidWorks)

ASME/ISO drafting

Manufacturing processes

Written communication

Travel up to 10%

Education

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Intuitive Surgical in Sunnyvale, CA, is seeking a hands‑on Mechanical Engineer focused on robotic instrument design for early‑phase development. You will join a small, innovative team, tackling complex mechanical, materials, and manufacturing challenges to advance minimally invasive robotic systems.

You will collaborate across disciplines, create CAD models and fixtures, document tests, and contribute to prototype quality and regulatory readiness.