Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer

We’re working with a pioneering technology company developing advanced robotic systems capable of precise, human-like interaction in real-world environments. Their work sits at the cutting edge of robotics, blending high-performance mechanical design with intelligent control and sensing. They are seeking a Senior Staff Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of a next-generation robotic hand—an intricate, high-DOF system requiring exceptional precision, robustness, and integration.

The Role In this role, you will own the mechanical architecture of a multi-fingered robotic hand , driving design from early concept through prototyping and into production. You’ll tackle complex challenges in dexterity, durability, and compact system integration while working closely with cross-functional teams. Key Responsibilities Architect Advanced Manipulation Systems Define finger topology, joint architectures, palm structures, and load paths Balance dexterity, strength, weight, and manufacturability Design High-Performance Mechanisms Develop multi-DOF joints and linkages capable of handling real-world forces, impacts, and off-axis loads Ensure durability across high cycle life applications Co-Design Actuation Systems Partner with actuation engineers on tendon-driven or remote actuation solutions Optimize cable routing, transmission efficiency, and wear characteristics Enable Human-Like Interaction Design for grasping, pinching, sliding, and tool use Tune compliance and stiffness for both precision and safe interaction Own Analysis & Validation Lead FEA, stress, fatigue, and impact analysis Identify and mitigate failure modes including wear, loosening, and material fatigue Drive Compact Integration Integrate actuation, sensing, and wiring into high-density mechanical systems Prototype & Iterate Rapidly build and test prototypes, refining designs through hands‑on validation Manufacturing & Scale‑Up Lead DFM/DFA, tolerancing, and process selection Collaborate with suppliers to ensure production readiness Work cross-functionally with controls, perception, electrical, and software teams Mentor engineers and lead technical design reviews What We’re Looking For Core Experience Proven track record designing complex, high-precision mechanical systems or multi-DOF mechanisms Strong system-level thinking and mechanical architecture experience Expertise in tight-space packaging and integration CAD & Geometry Expertise Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks, NX, or CATIA , especially surfacing and complex geometries Deep understanding of structural behavior, fatigue, and real-world durability Experience designing for reliability under dynamic or contact-rich conditions Leadership & Influence Ability to drive technical direction and align cross-functional teams Strong communication and design review skills Relevant Industry Backgrounds Humanoid or dexterous robotics Medical or surgical robotics Prosthetics or biomechanical devices Semiconductor automation or micron-scale manipulation systems Defense, aerospace, or drone systems involving advanced actuation and control Preferred Experience Robotic hands or anthropomorphic mechanisms Bio-inspired design or human hand biomechanics Tendon-driven or cable-actuated systems Compliant or soft robotics Tactile sensing or force feedback integration Advanced materials and surface treatments for wear and grip Qualifications B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (M.S. preferred) or related field 8+ years of experience in complex mechanical system design Why This Role Build highly sophisticated, real-world robotic systems Solve deeply challenging engineering problems at the intersection of mechanics and intelligence Work with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team Influence a product from concept through production #J-18808-Ljbffr