Staff Mechanical Engineer

Foundation is developing the future of general purpose robotics with the goal to address the labor shortage.

Our mission is to create advanced robots that can operate in complex environments, reducing human risk in conflict zones and enhancing efficiency in labor-intensive industries.

We are on the lookout for extraordinary engineers and scientists to join our team. Your previous experience in robotics isn't a prerequisite — it's your talent and determination that truly count.

We expect that many of our team members will bring diverse perspectives from various industries and fields. We are looking for individuals with a proven record of exceptional ability and a history of creating things that work.

Our Culture

We like to be frank and honest about who we are, so that people can decide for themselves if this is a culture they resonate with. Please read more about our culture here: https://foundation.bot/culture.

Who should join

  • You like working in person with a team in San Francisco.
  • You deeply believe that this is the most important mission for humanity and needs to happen yesterday.
  • You are highly technical - regardless of the role you are in. We are building technology; you need to understand technology well.
  • You care about aesthetics and design inside out. If it's not the best product ever, it bothers you, and you need to “fix” it.
  • You don't need someone to motivate you; you get things done.

Why We Are Hiring for This Role

  • Lead mechanical design efforts from concept through production, with a focus on DFM and scalability.
  • Collaborate with industrial designers, electrical engineers, and software teams to architect complex electro-mechanical systems.
  • Optimize designs for high-volume manufacturing using injection molding, die casting, stamping, etc
  • Use CAE tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, thermal analysis) to simulate performance, validate designs, and inform trade-offs.
  • Drive technical decision-making and mentor junior engineers across design best practices.
  • Develop and maintain product structure and BOMs within PLM systems 
  • Interface with suppliers and contract manufacturers to transition products from prototype to mass production.
  • Conduct design reviews and implement continuous improvement processes for quality, cost, and reliability.

What Kind of Person Are We Looking for

  • 8+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in robotics, automation, or electromechanical systems.
  • Proven track record of designing products for mass production with a focus on DFM principles.
  • Proficiency in CAD, and CAE tools 
  • Deep understanding of manufacturing processes and materials.
  • Experience managing designs and revisions within a PLM environment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a hands-on approach to prototyping and validation.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
  • Experience in robotic systems, motion control, or actuated mechanisms is a plus
  • Familiarity with design validation protocols including HALT/HASS and environmental testing.
  • Experience with GD&T and tolerance analysis for high-precision assemblies.
  • Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards (UL, CE, RoHS, etc.) is a plus
  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field.


Benefits

We provide market standard benefits (health, vision, dental, 401k, etc.). Join us for the culture and the mission, not for the benefits.



Hardware

San Francisco, CA

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