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Mechanical Design Engineer

Physical Intelligence

Physical Intelligence

Design
San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted on Mar 20, 2026

Location

San Francisco

Employment Type

Full time

Location Type

On-site

Department

Hardware

Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Design

Overview for sharing:

  • Product Design, Architecture, Scale OEM product experience

  • Extensive experience in design for manufacturing, reliability, and process /
    materials science

  • Relevant experience working with CMs and overseas vendors

  • Experience with mobile bases or actuated moving systems, ideally in the home

Full Job Description (Internal)
Detailed job description


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. 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!

What youʼll do:

  • Own the mechanical design lifecycle: From early concept and proof-of-
    concept prototypes to high-volume production, driving all design decisions
    around 3D CAD, 2D drawings, material selection, and manufacturability.

  • 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.Mechanical Design Engineer  Product Design1

  • 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.

Qualifications

  • Educational Background and Experience

  • 7 years of experience taking hardware products from concept to
    production, with a strong portfolio of shipped mechanical designs,
    preferably in robotics, automotive, consumer product.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent
    experience

  • Technical Expertise

  • Deep understanding of a wide range of high-volume processes (e.g.,
    injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, bonding).

  • Familiarity from past experiences 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; 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.

  • Hands-On Skills

  • Comfort in early-stage, resource-limited startup environments, with a
    willingness to get your hands dirty to move quickly.

  • Proficiency in various prototyping methods, including machining (mill,
    lathe) and sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, injection molding and other
    manufacturing processes

  • Experience building and testing prototypes

  • Ability to analyze failures and implement improvements