Staff Mechanical Engineer San Francisco, CA Hardware

  • Foundation Robotics Lab
  • San Francisco, California
  • Full Time

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 here: .

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

  • Lead mechanical design efforts from concept through production, with a focus on DFM and scalability.
  • Collaborate with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software teams to architect complex electro-mechanical systems.
  • Use CAE tools (eg, FEA, CFD, thermal analysis) to simulate performance, validate designs, and inform trade-offs.
  • Drive technical decision-making and mentor junior engineers across design best practices.
  • Develop and maintain product structure and BOMs within PLM systems
  • Interface with suppliers and contract manufacturers to transition products from prototype to mass production.
  • Conduct design reviews and implement continuous improvement processes for quality, cost, and reliability.

What Kind of Person Are We Looking for

  • 8+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in robotics, automation, or electromechanical systems.
  • Proven track record of designing products for mass production with a focus on DFM principles.
  • Proficiency in CAD, and CAE tools
  • Deep understanding of manufacturing processes and materials.
  • Experience managing designs and revisions within a PLM environment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a hands-on approach to prototyping and validation.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Experience in robotic systems, motion control, or actuated mechanisms is a plus
  • Familiarity with design validation protocols including HALT/HASS and environmental testing.
  • Experience with GD&T and tolerance analysis for high-precision assemblies.
  • Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards (UL, CE, RoHS, etc.) is a plus
  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field.

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

Job ID: 486115040
Originally Posted on: 7/20/2025

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