Mechanical Design Engineer, Robotics (Early-Stage Industrial Automation)
ScrumAID
San Francisco, CA · Posted October 31, 2026
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Pay compared with the market
This listing does not state pay. Across 52 open mechanical design engineer listings that state pay, the middle half runs $98,500 to $145,000 and the median is $119,500.
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AI use among mechanical engineers is little observed so far. Measured exposure for mechanical engineers: 8% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
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About the job
A stealth-mode robotics startup that develops and deploys robots that operate on their own in industrial settings is adding an early mechanical hire to its hardware group. The role covers the physical layer of the robot, from arms and grippers to complete assemblies, and suits a generalist who likes making things.
Your focus
Create and validate end-effectors tailored to particular jobs as well as general-use ones
Develop the hardware of the deployment platform, mixing custom parts with off-the-shelf components
Turn around bespoke devices such as teleoperation leader arms and data-collection rigs in days to weeks
Handle actuator design and integration, including finite element analysis, for robotic arms that carry industrial loads
Alternate between rapid prototypes that clear the way for the machine learning team and longer projects such as bespoke arms and actuators
Convert manipulation requirements from the ML, electronics and field teams into working hardware, carrying fixtures, tooling and complete assemblies from idea to the field
About you
Up to about four years of mechanical engineering experience in robotics, actuators or hardware products
Strong CAD skills in SolidWorks, Onshape or Fusion, paired with hands-on fabrication
A visible portfolio of personal or independent hardware projects
Designs you have carried from concept through manufacturing and deployment
Experience with manufacturing methods such as machining, sheet metal, molding or 3D printing is a plus
A mechanical engineering degree for senior applicants; strong portfolios can stand in for junior ones
On-site in the San Francisco Bay Area, in the office full time. Visa transfers considered.