We are seeking a highly skilled CAD/Prototyping Engineer – Mechanical Engineering for Robotics to play a pivotal role in designing, modeling, and prototyping mechanical components for advanced robotic systems, including quadrupeds, humanoids, and industrial robots. This role is ideal for professionals passionate about robotics, mechanical design, and rapid prototyping, ensuring that designs meet structural, functional, and manufacturability requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

1. 3D Modeling & CAD Design

   • Develop detailed 3D models of robotic components and assemblies using SolidWorks, CATIA, or Autodesk Inventor.
   • Generate technical drawings, Bill of Materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions for manufacturing and prototyping.
   • Ensure mechanical designs adhere to performance, durability, and safety standards, optimizing for efficiency and manufacturability.

2. Prototyping & Fabrication

   • Utilize 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, and other rapid prototyping methods to build and refine physical prototypes.
   • Perform hands-on mechanical assembly of robotic components, including actuators, linkages, frames, and enclosures.
   • Collaborate with machine shops, suppliers, and external vendors to source high-precision prototype components and materials.

3. Testing & Mechanical Validation

   • Conduct rigorous mechanical and structural testing on prototypes to assess durability, motion dynamics, and thermal performance.
   • Analyze test results to optimize designs, enhance reliability, and improve mechanical efficiency.
   • Document testing procedures, findings, and design iterations to ensure continuous improvement in robotic systems.

4. Structural Analysis & Optimization

   • Assist in performing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and thermal simulations using tools like ANSYS or Abaqus.
   • Optimize weight, strength, and cost efficiency of designs while ensuring compliance with environmental and operational constraints.
   • Enhance mechanical robustness to withstand high-load applications and extreme operating conditions.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

   • Work closely with robotics and control engineers to integrate mechanical designs with electrical and software systems.
   • Collaborate with industrial designers to balance aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality in robotic components.
   • Support automation and robotics teams in hardware integration, system assembly, and final testing.

6. Documentation & Compliance

   • Maintain detailed CAD files, testing reports, and design documentation to ensure traceability and reproducibility.
   • Ensure compliance with industry safety and regulatory standards such as ISO, ASTM, and robotics-specific regulations.
   • Incorporate manufacturing feedback into design iterations, refining mechanical components for large-scale production.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 3+ years in CAD design, prototyping, and mechanical engineering, preferably in robotics or industrial automation.
• Prototyping Expertise: Strong hands-on experience in fabrication, mechanical assembly, and testing of robotic systems.
• Technical Skills:
  • CAD & 3D Modeling: Expertise in SolidWorks, CATIA, Autodesk Inventor, or similar tools.
  • Prototyping & Fabrication: Experience with 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, and precision manufacturing techniques.
  • Material Science: Strong understanding of metals, composites, and engineering plastics used in robotics applications.
  • Mechanical Engineering Principles: Proficiency in kinematics, dynamics, mechanical linkages, and motion systems.
  • FEA & Structural Analysis: Familiarity with ANSYS, Abaqus, or similar simulation tools for validating designs.

Preferred Skills & Additional Expertise:

• Robotic-Specific Design: Experience in designing components for quadrupeds, humanoids, or bionic robotic platforms.
• Manufacturing & Mass Production: Knowledge of injection molding, casting, sheet metal fabrication, and high-volume production techniques.
• Simulation & Virtual Prototyping: Familiarity with Gazebo, Simulink, or other simulation tools for validating mechanical designs virtually.
• Control System Integration: Understanding of how mechanical designs interact with actuators, sensors, and robotic control systems.