Mechanical Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer (CAD + Robotics)

Reports To: [Engineering Manager / Lead Mechanical Engineer]

Location: Santa Monica, CA (On-site)

Employment Type: [Full-time]

Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 Annually

Experience Level: 1+ years

PTO: Flexible

We are seeking a hands‑on Mechanical Engineer with 1+ years of experience to support the design and development of our mechanical and robotic systems. This role is ideal for an engineer who is highly proficient in CAD (Solid Works preferred), comfortable moving designs from concept to prototype, and has working knowledge of robotics systems (mechanisms, actuators, sensors, integration concepts). You’ll collaborate closely with cross‑functional teammates in electrical, software, and manufacturing to deliver reliable, buildable solutions that meet project performance and schedule needs.

• Create and maintain 3D CAD models and detailed 2D drawings using Solid Works
  .
• Produce mechanical design documentation, including assemblies, manufacturing drawings, tolerances, and BOMs
  .
• Apply DFM/DFA principles to improve manufacturability, reduce costs, and ease assembly.

• Support mechanical design of robotic subsystems (e.g., linkages, frames, mounts, end‑effectors, drivetrain components).
• Assist with integrating mechanical designs with actuators (motors/servos), sensors, bearings, gears, belts, and linear motion components
  .
• Collaborate with software/electrical teams to ensure designs meet integration and packaging constraints.

• Build or support prototypes (3D prints, machined parts, off‑the‑shelf components) and refine designs through rapid iteration.
• Develop test plans and perform hands‑on evaluation of mechanical assemblies for fit, function, performance, and reliability.
• Help identify root causes of mechanical failures and implement corrective design changes.
• Work with internal manufacturing teams and/or external suppliers to source parts and validate fabrication approaches.
• Support assembly documentation (work instructions, exploded views, assembly drawings) and first‑article inspections as needed.

• Track work against project goals, timelines, and design requirements.
• Maintain engineering documentation and revision control using [PDM/PLM system, if applicable].

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent practical experience).
• 1+ years of mechanical engineering experience (industry, co‑op, internship plus post‑grad experience, or equivalent).
• Proficiency in Solid Works for part and assembly design, drawings, and revisions.
• Working knowledge of mechanical design fundamentals (materials, fasteners, fits, tolerances, basic stress/deflection concepts).
• Familiarity with robotics‑related mechanical components (actuation, sensors, transmissions, linear motion, mechanism design concepts).
• Ability to interpret and create manufacturing drawings and collaborate effectively across disciplines.
• Strong problem‑solving mindset and comfort working in a fast‑paced, iterative development environment.

• Experience designing or integrating robotic systems (autonomous platforms, automation equipment, or mechatronic products).
• Exposure to GD&T and tolerance stack‑up basics.
• Experience with prototyping tools/processes: 3D printing, machining, sheet metal, laser cutting, adhesives, etc.
• Familiarity with FEA or basic simulation tools (Solid Works Simulation or equivalent).
• Understanding of robotics software concepts such as ROS
  , basic kinematics, or motion systems (helpful, not required).
• Experience with PDM/PLM tools (e.g., Solid Works PDM, Arena, Windchill).

• Practical mechanical design judgment (buildable designs, clean assemblies, thoughtful tolerances)
• Strong collaboration and communication with cross‑functional partners
• Organized approach to documentation and revision control
• Ownership mindset: sees issues through from discovery to resolution
• Ability to balance speed and quality in iterative product development

• Designs are clearly documented
  ,…