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.