Mechanical Design Engineer
- Level
- Senior
- Work type
- On-site · San Francisco
Not stated in the posting: salary, visa.
Open. First seen 2 October 2026.
About the role
We're looking for an experienced mechanical engineer to drive the integration and development of our robotic systems, leading innovative designs from concept to deployment. You'll own the full spectrum of mechanical development—from actuator sizing or design to kinematics and work with teams to prototype and ultimately produce systems at scale—ensuring reliability, deployability, and performance. The ideal candidate is a hands-on innovator with deep expertise in mechatronic systems, combining theoretical knowledge with practical engineering skills.
Experience with actuation systems, electromechanical integration, machine design, and a track record of bringing mechanical systems to life is essential. If this sounds like you, please apply!
In This Role You Will
- Own the mechanical design lifecycle: Drive all design decisions around 3D CAD, 2D drawings, material selection, and manufacturability — from early concept and proof-of-concept prototypes through high-volume production.
- Develop and refine manufacturing processes: Identify and optimize injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, adhesives, and bonding methods for new and existing products.
- Ensure reliability and robustness: Perform and interpret reliability tests (HALT/HASS, tolerance stack-ups, environmental testing) and lead corrective design actions.
- Leverage simulation for smart decisions: Use basic FEA tools (thermal, structural, vibrational) and first-order analyses to validate or guide design from early phases onward.
- Lead system integration efforts: Collaborate with electrical and radio teams to balance thermal, EMI, mechanical stability, and accessibility needs in tightly integrated assemblies.
- Prototype and iterate quickly: Build proof-of-concept designs, run experiments, and translate findings into high-yield, mass-production-ready solutions.
- Manage vendor relationships: Evaluate DFM, cost, yield, and timeline trade-offs; work with JDM/CM/ODM partners; own and drive supplier selection where needed.
- Communicate effectively across teams: Conduct design reviews with cross-functional stakeholders, clearly articulating design rationale, risks, and trade-offs.
What We Hope You'll Bring
- 7+ years of experience taking hardware products from concept to production, with a strong portfolio of shipped mechanical designs — preferably in robotics, automotive, or consumer products
- Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience
- Deep understanding of high-volume manufacturing processes (injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, bonding)
- Familiarity with HALT/HASS, FMEA, DOE methodologies, and test-to-failure approaches for robust mechanical design
- Practical understanding of when and how to apply FEA tools, with the ability to make first-order engineering judgments
- Proven record of mechanically integrating electronics (sensors, PCBs, antennas, batteries) in complex assemblies
- Ability to lead reviews, influence cross-functional teams, and convey risks and solutions clearly
- Comfort in early-stage, resource-limited startup environments with a willingness to move quickly and hands-on
- Proficiency in prototyping methods including machining (mill, lathe), sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, and injection molding
- Experience building and testing prototypes and analyzing failures to implement improvements
Physical Intelligence's standard text
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
What this role asks for
Particular to this role
FEA
Rare in Physical Intelligence's other 23 open postings.
96% of this description is written for the role. The rest is Physical Intelligence's standard text, folded away below.
Read against Physical Intelligence's other open postings on this site.
The team: Hardware
This role is one of 10 open in Hardware.
WHAT THE TEAM WORKS WITH, ACROSS ITS POSTINGS
PCB Design (6 of 10), Python (5 of 10), Embedded Systems (3 of 10), SolidWorks (3 of 10), FEA (2 of 10), PLC (2 of 10)
OTHER ROLES ON THIS TEAM
- Mechatronics Intern posted Sep 17
- NPI Technical Program Manager posted Aug 7
- Manufacturing Engineer posted Aug 5
- Production Test Engineer posted Aug 3
- Prototype Engineer posted Jul 24
- Robot Integration and Test Technician posted Jul 24
- Robot Integration Engineer posted May 18
- Forward Deployed Robotics Engineer posted Nov 17
- Robotics Technician posted Jul 30
From the team and dates on Physical Intelligence's own job board.
Salary context
30 other open postings titled Mechanical Design Engineer state a salary: median USD 122,000 to USD 164,500 a year.
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