Mechanical Design Engineer
- Location
- San Francisco, CA · On-site
- Job type
- Full-time
- Level
- Lead / Staff
- Experience
- 7+ years
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Listed
- 30 days ago
Skills & highlights for this role
- injection molding
- design for manufacturability
- HALT/HASS testing
- FEA
- prototyping
Also useful
- robotics
- actuator design
- sheet metal fabrication
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
Equal opportunity and legal notices
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
From Physical Intelligence's careers page, first listed on Rolev.ai on October 10, 2026. Rolev.ai is not the employer.
How Rolev.ai helps with this application
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Common questions
Where is the Mechanical Design Engineer job at Physical Intelligence located?
This Mechanical Design Engineer position at Physical Intelligence is located in San Francisco, CA (On-site). Always check Physical Intelligence's application page for specific state eligibility or relocation policies.
What qualifications are required for Mechanical Design Engineer at Physical Intelligence?
For the Mechanical Design Engineer role, Physical Intelligence highlights 7+ years of relevant experience; a bachelor's degree; experience with injection molding, design for manufacturability, HALT/HASS testing, FEA, prototyping. Rolev.ai can score your existing resume against these requirements and show any skill gaps before you apply.
How do I apply for the Mechanical Design Engineer position at Physical Intelligence?
This listing links directly to Physical Intelligence's Ashby application page. You can apply directly on Physical Intelligence's site, or use Rolev.ai to check your resume fit, generate a zero-hallucination tailored resume and cover letter for this posting, and autofill the Ashby application form in 1 click with the Rolev.ai Chrome extension. You always review the form and press Submit yourself.