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Mechanical Engineer, Dynamometer and Actuator Testing Infrastructure

San Francisco💼 Full-time🗓 2026-09-10 → 2026-09-25

Core

Design, build, and own mechanical test infrastructure (dynamometers, fixtures, load paths) for characterizing robotic actuators in a lab setting.

Role type

Senior IC mechanical engineer (test infrastructure)

Builds

Robotic actuator test cells, dynamometer structures, precision fixtures, and safety systems

Domain

Robotics / Mechanical Testing / Hardware Infrastructure

Deliverable

production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work

Required skills

Mechanical architecture design, load path analysis, stiffness and strength analysis, fatigue and vibration analysis, precision alignment strategies, modular fixturing design, CAD design, structural simulation, vendor management, lab assembly and debugging, mechanical safety system design

Preferred skills

Experience with robotic actuator dynamometers, rotating machinery, aerospace or automotive hardware, NX/SolidWorks/Creo, thermal and modal analysis, metrology and machining

Technologies

NX, SolidWorks, Creo

Responsibilities

Own mechanical architecture of dynamometer and actuator test cells; Design dynamometer structures, fixtures, couplings, shafts, and torque-reaction hardware; Perform first-principles analysis for stiffness, strength, fatigue, and vibration; Create precise alignment strategies; Design modular fixturing for rapid changeover; Work with electrical engineers on cable routing and safety interfaces; Work with software engineers to define mechanical limits; Build, assemble, and debug test stands in the lab; Develop guarding and safety systems for high-energy rotating equipment; Manage fabrication partners and vendors; Establish drawings, tolerance stacks, and inspection plans; Use failure analysis to improve durability and measurement fidelity

Seniority

Senior, hands-on IC

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