Mechanical Design Engineer, Physical Intelligence
General-purpose AI for the physical world
Open for applications
General-purpose AI for the physical world
101-200 employees
Open for applications
101-200 employees
Company mission
To power the robots of today and the physically-actuated devices of the future.
Role
Who you are
- The ideal candidate is a hands-on innovator with deep expertise in mechatronic systems, combining theoretical knowledge with practical engineering skills
- Experience with actuation systems, electromechanical integration, machine design, and a track record of bringing mechanical systems to life is essential. If this sounds like you, please apply!
- 7+ years of experience taking hardware products from concept to production, with a strong portfolio of shipped mechanical designs — preferably in robotics, automotive, or consumer products
- Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience
- Deep understanding of high-volume manufacturing processes (injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, bonding)
- Familiarity with HALT/HASS, FMEA, DOE methodologies, and test-to-failure approaches for robust mechanical design
- Practical understanding of when and how to apply FEA tools, with the ability to make first-order engineering judgments
- Proven record of mechanically integrating electronics (sensors, PCBs, antennas, batteries) in complex assemblies
- Ability to lead reviews, influence cross-functional teams, and convey risks and solutions clearly
- Comfort in early-stage, resource-limited startup environments with a willingness to move quickly and hands-on
- Proficiency in prototyping methods including machining (mill, lathe), sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, and injection molding
- Experience building and testing prototypes and analyzing failures to implement improvements
What the job involves
- We're looking for an experienced mechanical engineer to drive the integration and development of our robotic systems, leading innovative designs from concept to deployment
- You'll own the full spectrum of mechanical development—from actuator sizing or design to kinematics and work with teams to prototype and ultimately produce systems at scale—ensuring reliability, deployability, and performance
- Own the mechanical design lifecycle: Drive all design decisions around 3D CAD, 2D drawings, material selection, and manufacturability — from early concept and proof-of-concept prototypes through high-volume production
- Develop and refine manufacturing processes: Identify and optimize injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, adhesives, and bonding methods for new and existing products
- Ensure reliability and robustness: Perform and interpret reliability tests (HALT/HASS, tolerance stack-ups, environmental testing) and lead corrective design actions
- Leverage simulation for smart decisions: Use basic FEA tools (thermal, structural, vibrational) and first-order analyses to validate or guide design from early phases onward
- Lead system integration efforts: Collaborate with electrical and radio teams to balance thermal, EMI, mechanical stability, and accessibility needs in tightly integrated assemblies
- Prototype and iterate quickly: Build proof-of-concept designs, run experiments, and translate findings into high-yield, mass-production-ready solutions
- Manage vendor relationships: Evaluate DFM, cost, yield, and timeline trade-offs; work with JDM/CM/ODM partners; own and drive supplier selection where needed
- Communicate effectively across teams: Conduct design reviews with cross-functional stakeholders, clearly articulating design rationale, risks, and trade-offs
Our take
To empower intelligent robotics and devices, Physical Intelligence is developing general purpose AI for the physical world. The company is working to create the foundation models and learning algorithms that will support smarter robots and devices today and in the future.
The company is in its early stages, but it has already raised over $1 billion since its founding in 2024. Its backers include big names such as Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, OpenAI, Sequoia Capital and Thrive Capital, indicating the high expectations placed upon the company's foundation models.
Steph
Company Specialist at Welcome to the Jungle
Company
Company HQ
SoMa, San Francisco, CA
Leadership
Karol Hausman
(Co-Founder & CEO)Adjunct Professor at Stanford University. Previously Staff Research Scientist and Robot Manipulation Lead at Google Brain, a Research Assistant at the University of Southern California and Research Intern at DeepMind.
Chelsea Finn
(Co-Founder)Assistant Professor at Stanford University. Previously a Research Scientist at Google Brain, PhD Student at UC Berkeley and Engineering Intern at Counsyl.
Brian Ichter
(Co-Founder)Previously a Research Scientist at Google, Research Assistant at Stanford University and Researcher at the University of Virginia.
Lachy Groom
(Co-Founder)Former Head of Stripe Issuing at Stripe.
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