Staff Manufacturing Engineering - Atlas

About the role

Boston Dynamics is seeking a Staff Manufacturing Engineer to support the Atlas program. This role involves transforming research prototypes into reliable, scalable systems for manufacturing and field deployment.

Responsibilities

• Optimize and scale low-volume production processes, assembly workflows, and custom tooling for Atlas builds.
• Collaborate with Hardware Engineering, Prototype Operations, Systems Engineering, Behavior and Software teams to ensure designs can be efficiently and reliably built.
• Develop, validate, and implement custom fixtures, tools, and jigs for mechanical assembly, precision alignment, and testing of electric motors and actuators.
• Define assembly sequences, work instructions, and process documentation, including SOPs, visual aids, and training materials for assembly technicians.
• Support prototype builds, troubleshooting assembly issues, and driving corrective actions to improve processes and product designs.
• Implement process controls to ensure build quality, dimensional accuracy, and alignment with product performance requirements.
• Develop and implement inspection and test processes, including first article inspections (FAI), in-process quality checks, and final acceptance criteria.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain to ensure external fabrication and supplier processes align with internal manufacturing requirements and quality standards.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to improve process efficiency, reduce cycle times, and increase yield.
• Drive tooling and equipment validation, ensuring custom fixtures and tools are fully qualified for use in production, including performing capability studies where necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; Master’s degree or PhD preferred.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in Process engineering, process development, or advanced manufacturing, preferably in robotics, aerospace, or complex electromechanical systems.
• Expert-level proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar) for tool/fixture design and review of engineering drawings.
• Proven track record of DFM/DFA collaboration with design teams to drive manufacturable and serviceable product designs.
• Hands-on experience developing and validating custom tooling, jigs, and fixtures to support precision mechanical assembly.
• Experience developing and validating custom automation equipment to support precision mechanical assembly and improve process efficiency.
• Experience writing clear, concise, and detailed work instructions, SOPs, and training materials for assembly technicians.
• Familiarity with precision assembly techniques, including alignment, shimming, fastening, sealing, and torque control for complex assemblies.
• Experience working in prototype, low-volume, or high-mix production environments, with an ability to adapt processes for evolving product designs.
• Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) and its application in both design and inspection processes.
• Demonstrated experience applying Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis methodologies to drive process improvement.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and electromechanical assemblies.
• Comfortable working in cross-functional teams, balancing technical, schedule, and cost considerations in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present technical concepts and influence stakeholders across engineering, operations, and leadership teams.
• Experience supporting on-site prototype builds and providing direct manufacturing floor support.
• Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, machining (e.g. Mill, Lathe) and fabrication (e.g. Welding, Grinding, Bending) techniques for fixture.

Qualifications

• Nice to have: Experience supporting humanoid or robotic development programs, familiarity with precision motion systems, actuators, and advanced sensors, experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for engineering change control and manufacturing documentation management, experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) for production floor management, process control and visual management, background working with external design firms, contract manufacturers, or suppliers for tool and fixture development, experience working in a research-to-product transition environment, where designs and processes evolve rapidly, TWI Job Instruction and/or Job Methods certified.