Senior Hardware Engineer, Automation

Key job responsibilities

• Own end-to-end evaluation and selection of commercially available automation solutions, critically assessing designs against internal use cases and driving informed make-versus-buy decisions
• Work directly with vendors to customize mechanical and automation solutions to address varied and demanding requirements, leading technical evaluation, qualification, and deployment
• Deep dive mechanical failures during pilots and early deployments to identify root causes, critically evaluate vendor assertions, and drive corrective actions
• Independently design, develop, and validate mechanical hardware for automated systems including workstations, robotic arms, safety systems, material handling, and part load/unload mechanisms
• Develop and deliver detailed CAD models, engineering drawings, trade studies, and technical documentation using SolidWorks or NX
• Define fixturing, tooling, and workholding strategies to ensure repeatability, precision, and efficient integration across automation platforms
• Build and manage relationships with automation OEMs, system integrators, and component suppliers, leading technical discussions and driving accountability for deliverables
• Collaborate cross-functionally with systems engineers, product managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure cohesive planning, integration, and execution of automated solutions
• Establish and maintain comprehensive documentation including design reviews, failure analyses, process validation records, and standard operating procedures
• Contribute to the growth of the engineering team by mentoring peers, training junior engineers, and participating in design reviews and hiring activities
• Evaluate emerging automation technologies, materials, and techniques and recommend strategic investments to enhance capabilities

Basic Qualifications

• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Bachelor's degree in robotics, mechanical/mechatronics engineering, systems engineering or related field
• 7+ years of experience in mechanical hardware design, development, and validation for automated or robotic systems
• Proven ability to independently design and deliver mechanical hardware from concept through production with limited guidance
• Strong CAD proficiency (SolidWorks or NX) with experience producing detailed drawings, assemblies, and technical documentation
• Experience evaluating vendor designs and making informed make-versus-buy trade-off decisions
• Demonstrated ability to perform root cause analysis on mechanical failures and drive corrective actions
• Experience working with external vendors and system integrators to deliver customized technical solutions
• Proficiency in data-driven decision making, including use of trade studies, structured problem solving, and technical risk assessment

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or above in robotics, mechanical/mechatronics engineering, systems engineering or related field
• Experience with high-volume manufacturing line design and deployment
• Knowledge of robotic safety standards (e.g., ISO 10218, ANSI/RIA 15.06) and material handling standards
• Experience working with traditional robotic systems and custom automation solutions such as gantries, pick-and-place robots, and vision systems
• Understanding of industrial control systems and PLC/HMI programming capabilities
• Experience designing and scaling automated systems in high-throughput production environments
• Familiarity with system architecture trade-offs, standardization strategies, and lifecycle management
• Experience driving continuous improvement initiatives with measurable impact on system performance and reliability
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable plans for diverse stakeholders