Robot Design Engineer (The Innovation Architect)
Unreal Gigs, San Francisco, CA, United States
Are you passionate about designing the form and functionality of robots that solve real-world problems? Do you have the skills to conceptualize, prototype, and refine robotic systems from the ground up? If you’re ready to bring innovative robotics designs to life, our client has the perfect role for you. We’re looking for a Robot Design Engineer (aka The Innovation Architect) to lead the mechanical design, functionality, and aesthetics of cutting-edge robots.
As a Robot Design Engineer at our client, you’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop robots that meet specific operational goals, whether for manufacturing, healthcare, exploration, or consumer applications. Your expertise in design and engineering will be crucial to creating reliable, functional, and visually appealing robots that perform seamlessly in various environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and Develop Robotic Structures: Conceptualize, design, and prototype robotic bodies and mechanisms. You’ll focus on structural integrity, aesthetics, and functionality to ensure each robot is effective and aligned with project goals.
- Create and Optimize Mechanical Components: Design mechanical parts, joints, and assemblies that support movement and operation. You’ll ensure each component is optimized for durability, efficiency, and integration with electronic and software systems.
- Collaborate on Kinematic and Dynamic Modeling: Develop models for robot movement, stability, and interaction with environments. You’ll work with control engineers to ensure smooth, precise, and safe movements.
- Oversee Prototyping and Testing of Robotic Designs: Lead the prototyping phase to test design feasibility, functionality, and durability. You’ll analyze test results, identify improvement areas, and refine designs to achieve optimal performance.
- Integrate Sensors, Actuators, and Electronics: Collaborate with electrical engineers to incorporate sensors, actuators, and other hardware components. You’ll design mounts, enclosures, and interfaces that seamlessly integrate with the overall structure.
- Use CAD and Simulation Tools for Design Accuracy: Utilize CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed design drawings and simulations, ensuring accuracy in dimensions, tolerances, and component fit.
- Document Design Processes and Prepare Technical Reports: Maintain thorough documentation of design processes, design decisions, and testing results. You’ll provide technical reports that support the development process and aid future modifications.
Required Skills:
- Mechanical Design Expertise: Proficiency in mechanical design principles, including kinematics, dynamics, and materials science, particularly as they apply to robotic applications.
- CAD and Simulation Software Skills: Strong skills in CAD tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or CATIA, as well as experience with simulation software for analyzing mechanical performance.
- Prototyping and Fabrication Knowledge: Experience with prototyping techniques and familiarity with fabrication methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining) for creating physical models.
- Knowledge of Actuators and Motion Systems: Familiarity with servo motors, actuators, and other motion-control components, including their integration into mechanical systems.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyze test data, troubleshoot design issues, and make iterative improvements to optimize robotic designs.
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field. Equivalent experience in robotic design may be considered.
- Relevant certifications or coursework in robotics, automation, or mechanical design are advantageous.
Experience Requirements:
- 3+ years of experience in robotic design or mechanical engineering, with a proven record of successful robot or automation projects.
- Familiarity with mechatronics and basic electronics to support hardware integration is beneficial.
- Experience working with robotic simulation environments or motion planning tools is a plus.