About Bonsai Robotics

Bonsai Robotics develops affordable, vision-based autonomy that makes off-road equipment smarter, safer, and more productive. We are redefining outdoor autonomy with Bonsai Intelligence, a connected platform that’s inspired by biology to see, think, and act with precision like a human. We bring together advanced perception, embodied AI, integrations with equipment manufacturers, and our compact, modular Amiga vehicles to deliver reliable automation to the world’s most demanding field operations—reducing costs and increasing operational efficiencies.

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Mechatronics Engineer to join our hardware development team at Bonsai Robotics. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and integrating mechanical, electrical, and control systems for our next-generation autonomous UGV platforms. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software, contributing to advancements in autonomy, reliability, and performance in demanding commercial applications.

What you'll do

• Design, develop, and integrate mechatronic systems for autonomous UGVs, including mechanical assemblies, electrical hardware, sensors, actuators, and embedded control systems.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to ensure robust hardware integration and optimal system performance.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and work instructions to support efficient assembly and troubleshooting.
• Specify, select, and qualify components and subsystems for use in harsh, off-road environments.
• Support prototype builds, system bring-up, and validation testing of integrated mechatronic systems.
• Conduct root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability, reduce defects, and improve throughput.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, EMC requirements, and applicable regulations.
• Contribute to the ongoing improvement of development processes and best practices.
• Debug and triage deployed systems from the field as needed.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience in mechatronic system design and integration, preferably within robotics, autonomous systems, automotive, aerospace, or agricultural industries.
• Technical Skills:
• • Proficiency in CAD software (Fusion, SolidWorks) and electrical design tools (e.g., Altium Designer, OrCAD).
  • Experience with embedded control systems, sensor integration, actuator selection, and power electronics.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for both mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Familiarity with communication protocols (CAN, Ethernet, RS-232/485, SPI, I2C, etc.).
  • Understanding of EMI/EMC mitigation techniques and hardware validation testing.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Bonus 

• • Experience with autonomous vehicle platforms, UGVs, or mobile robotics.
  • Knowledge of functional safety standards and risk assessment.
  • Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping, field testing, and bringing projects from prototype to mass production.
  • Background designing for automotive/off-highway or harsh environments.
  • Experience with hardware validation cycles, debug, measurement, and manufacturing testing processes.
  • Experience delivering projects to mass production.
  • Understanding of Agile or Waterfall development methodologies.

Additional Details

• This role is majority on-site in our office in Watsonville, CA.
• Some travel may be required to support deployed machines.

Bonsai Robotics is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or nationality, ancestry, age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status or any other category protected by law.