Mechanical Engineering Manager - Robotics

Our client is a fast-paced, venture-backed automotive robotics company revolutionizing how vehicles are serviced and maintained. They are seeking a hands-on and strategic Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead the development and optimization of robotic mechanical systems across their next-generation product line. This person will manage a team of talented mechanical engineers and collaborate closely with electrical, software, manufacturing, and product teams to deliver robust, production-ready systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers working on robotic subsystems, actuators, structural assemblies, and automated tooling for automotive applications.

• Drive the full product development lifecycle including concept generation, detailed design, prototyping, testing, design validation, and transition to production.

• Develop mechanical architecture strategies that balance performance, manufacturability, cost, and reliability.

• Review and approve 3D CAD models, drawings, and documentation to ensure design accuracy and compliance with company standards.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, software, systems, manufacturing, and supply chain.

• Manage project schedules, resources, risk, and technical deliverables to meet milestones and production timelines.

• Oversee supplier engagement for mechanical fabrication, prototyping, and volume manufacturing.

• Support ongoing continuous improvement, design for manufacturing (DFM), and design for assembly (DFA) initiatives.

• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; Master’s preferred.

• 7+ years of experience in mechanical design and product development, with at least 2 years in a technical leadership or management role.

• Proven experience developing complex electromechanical or robotic systems, ideally within automotive, industrial automation, or robotics domains.

• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, or similar).

• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, injection molding, etc.), and GD&T.

• Experience with structural analysis, thermal management, and motion systems.

• Excellent project management and organizational skills.

• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, with a passion for mentoring engineers and building high-performing teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with automotive standards, environmental testing, and regulatory compliance (e.g., IP ratings, shock and vibration testing, etc.).

• Familiarity with robotics components such as motors, gearboxes, sensors, and pneumatics.

• Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping and shop tools.

• Knowledge of system integration and cross-discipline debugging.