Staff Robotics Engineer – Hardware
| Company | Relativity Space |
|---|---|
| Location | Long Beach, CA, USA |
| Salary | $183000 – $237000 |
| Type | Full-Time |
| Degrees | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Experience Level | Senior, Expert or higher |
Requirements
- BS, MS, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field
- 7+ years of hands-on experience in robotics hardware design, with a strong focus on AGVs, AMRs, KUKA or other robotic arms, and KUKA Robot Controllers (KRC) using KUKA Robot Language (KRL)
- Proficiency in CAD (NX, SolidWorks, or similar) and hardware design tools for modeling, prototyping, and testing
- Demonstrated experience with actuator and motor selection, sensor integration, and control systems
- Solid understanding of mechanical systems, kinematics, materials, and manufacturing processes
- Experience designing and integrating high-precision robotic systems, such as robotic arms, autonomous mobile robots, or robotic welding systems
- Proficiency in EtherCAT, CANbus, Profinet, and other industrial communication protocols used in robotics and automation
- Knowledge of robot safety standards, including functional safety protocols (ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066) and safety systems design
- Strong background in integrating sensors into robotic systems, including cameras, LiDAR, and other perception sensors, to support autonomous decision-making and navigation
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse, multidisciplinary teams.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of advanced robotic hardware systems, including manipulation arms, end effector integration, and especially autonomous mobile robots
- Work with cross-functional teams, including software engineers, mechanical designers, and systems integrators, to develop fully integrated robotic solutions
- Develop detailed hardware designs from concept through prototype, focusing on precision, durability, and manufacturability
- Conduct testing of robotic systems, ensuring they meet performance, reliability, and safety standards in both manufacturing and spaceflight environments
- Mentor junior hardware engineers, providing guidance on complex design and integration challenges while fostering a collaborative and creative team environment
- Lead the selection and integration of components, including motors, actuators, sensors, and controllers, to build high-performance robotic systems that meet demanding manufacturing requirements
- Work closely with the Additive Manufacturing and Automation teams to ensure integration of robotics into large-scale production processes
- Push the boundaries of design by incorporating cutting-edge technologies in mechatronics, robotics, and automation for space applications.
Preferred Qualifications
- AI/ML background, especially in developing perception or control algorithms for robotics
- Experience with industrial robot manipulators (KUKA, ABB, UR, etc.)
- Experience with robotic welding systems, grinder end effectors, tool changers or other advanced robotic applications in manufacturing
- Experience in additive manufacturing processes, specifically in robotics integration for 3D printing or similar field
- Experience with LiPo battery charging systems and managing power requirements for robotics platforms
- Familiarity with motion capture systems and perception technologies to track and verify robot positions, ensuring high-precision operation.