Mechanical Engineer - Robotics & Automation

This role leads the design and engineering lifecycle of complex mechanical assemblies, systems, and specialized tooling for large-format robotic 3D printing construction equipment. You will perform advanced analyses, create detailed documentation, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, manufacturable, and reliable mechanical solutions. The position combines hands-on mechanical design, rapid prototyping, and field support in a dynamic, innovation-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end design and engineering lifecycle of complex mechanical assemblies, systems, and specialized tooling for large-format robotic 3D printing construction equipment.
• Perform detailed structural, thermal, and kinematic engineering analyses using foundational hand calculations and advanced computational modeling tools such as FEA and CFD to evaluate stress, deflection, fatigue, thermal performance, and dynamic system behavior.
• Generate comprehensive engineering documentation, including 3D CAD models, detailed 2D drawings compliant with ASME Y14.5 standards, and accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Lead cross-functional design reviews, incorporating feedback from industrial design, manufacturing, reliability, software, and field operations teams to refine and optimize designs.
• Drive the selection and qualification of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, materials, and fabrication methods to optimize designs for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop integrated designs that meet functional and performance requirements.
• Work side by side with Prototype Technicians and Manufacturing teams during build phases to troubleshoot assembly issues and rapidly implement design updates.
• Develop and execute rigorous verification and validation (V&V) plans to ensure designs meet all functional, performance, and reliability requirements.
• Identify technical risks throughout the design process and drive mitigation strategies using tools such as Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
• Provide hands-on support for field deployment, including root cause analysis and resolution of mechanical failures in operational and prototype systems.
• Manage and control engineering documentation, including drawings, models, and BOMs, within Product Data/Lifecycle Management (PDM/PLM) systems.
• Review and check drawings created by other team members for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to established drafting and GD&T standards.
• Support new product development efforts by iterating quickly on R&D prototypes while maintaining high-quality output and robust engineering practices.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support broader engineering and company goals.

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 5+ years of experience in a hands-on mechanical design or product development role.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks for 3D CAD modeling and mechanical design.
• Strong experience in mechanical design and drafting, including creation of detailed 2D drawings.
• Familiarity with ASME Y14.5 and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards.
• Experience with robotics and automation-focused mechanical systems.
• Demonstrated ability to design and iterate R&D prototypes quickly while maintaining high-quality engineering output.
• Experience with machine design, including complex assemblies and mechanisms.
• Ability to perform foundational engineering hand calculations for structural, thermal, and kinematic analyses.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and thermal analysis to evaluate mechanical performance.
• Strong understanding of new product development processes and design for manufacturability (DFM) principles.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and field operations.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in engineering documentation, including BOMs and drawings.

• Experience with SolidWorks Simulation; ANSYS experience is considered transferable and beneficial.
• Hands-on experience designing, integrating, and troubleshooting fluid or hydraulic systems.
• Experience designing hardware intended for prolonged use in dusty, dirty, or harsh outdoor environments.
• Familiarity with Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) or similar risk assessment tools.
• Experience working within Product Data Management (PDM) or Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.
• Background in verification and validation (V&V) planning and execution for mechanical systems.
• Prior experience in a startup or fast-paced environment where rapid iteration is required.
• Strong communication skills for leading design reviews and providing clear documentation.

This is an onsite role with core hours typically from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility to work overtime as needed to support project deadlines and field activities. You will work in a collaborative, innovation-focused environment that blends engineering lab, prototype build, and office settings. The culture emphasizes a fun, fast-paced startup atmosphere where you can contribute in the earlier phases of a growing company and see your designs deployed in real-world robotic 3D printing construction applications. The role involves close interaction with engineers, technicians, and manufacturing staff, as well as hands-on work with mechanical assemblies and prototypes. A comprehensive paid time off program includes a company shutdown week from December 26th to 31st and 10 paid holidays, including New Years Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and a winter break holiday period. Dress expectations align with a professional engineering and lab environment, balancing safety requirements with practical attire suitable for hands-on mechanical work.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Austin, TX.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $65.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job

classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be

subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits

available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision

Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

Short and long-term disability

Health Spending Account (HSA)

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Austin,TX.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 16, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions.

We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through

access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market.

With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S.,

Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without

regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,

sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected

by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or

adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,

please email ... for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the

city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants

with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a

condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law

shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,

including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications

and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you

acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.