Hardware Engineering Manager - Robotics R&D

Job Description

The Robotics and Digital solutions (RAD) group, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, is recruiting for a Hardware Engineering Manager for the Ottava R&D Team. This position is located in Santa Clara, CA.

The Ottava R&D team envisions a future for robotic intervention that is targeted, minimally invasive, and personalized. Building upon a deep understanding of patient and physician needs, we are developing a platform for the next evolution of soft‑tissue robotic care.

We are a team of mechanical, electrical, mechatronics, robotic controls, software, and clinical engineers who are passionate about improving patient care. The team includes a wide range of experience levels from junior engineers to industry experts. We follow an iterative design approach to product development that requires us to collaborate closely across clinical, capital hardware, and instruments & accessories teams.

As the Hardware Engineering Manager on the Ottava R&D team, you will play a key role in designing and building one of the world’s most advanced medical robotic platforms. You will be responsible for leading the architecture, development, and execution of robotic mechanical subsystems within our capital hardware portfolio, while also growing and supporting a high‑performing team of engineers.

• Lead the design, development, and delivery of robotic capital hardware for surgical environments.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical and electrical engineers, supporting growth and execution.
• Contribute hands‑on to subsystem design, including actuators, structures, and sensors.
• Drive rapid prototyping and transition to commercial‑ready designs.
• Provide technical guidance on feasibility, test strategies, and product direction.
• Collaborate across software, controls, systems, manufacturing, quality, and clinical teams.
• Participate in design reviews, cross‑functional discussions, and clinical labs.
• Engage vendors and external partners to support development and commercialization.
• Support innovation through new concepts, technologies, and design improvements.

• BS in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or equivalent fields with 6+ years of experience (robotics and/or medical device preferred).
• Proven technical leadership in product development (concept through launch).
• Experience leading or mentoring engineers.
• Strong fundamentals:
  Mechatronics, materials, FEA, GD&T.
• Experience developing and launching complex robotic/electromechanical systems.
• Familiarity with medical device regulations (IEC 60601, 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, ISO 14971), ASME standards and IEEE standards.
• Strong cross‑functional collaboration and communication skills.

Base salary: $ – $. Eligible for annual performance bonus and long‑term incentive program. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, accident insurance, group legal insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, and various time‑off benefits.

Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.