Position SummaryMinth California Inc. is looking for an Innovation Manager to support our frontier technology initiatives in North America.
This role will focus on robotics, Physical AI, AI infrastructure hardware, and advanced manufacturing. The candidate will track market and technology trends, research startups and technology companies, prepare management briefings, and support customer and ecosystem meetings.
Key Focus AreasThe role will primarily focus on the following areas:
1. Robotics and Physical AIIncluding humanoid robotics, robot structural components, actuator-related hardware, sensors and enclosures, vision-related components, lightweight materials, and manufacturing processes.
2. AI Infrastructure HardwareIncluding AI data center cooling systems, cabinets, structural components, power-related hardware, and thermal management materials.
3. Advanced Manufacturing and MaterialsIncluding precision manufacturing, automation, metal forming, plastic components, composites, surface treatment, lightweight structures, and other manufacturing technologies relevant to robotics and AI infrastructure
Key Responsibilities- Track technology and market trends in robotics, Physical AI, AI infrastructure hardware, data center cooling, thermal management, and advanced manufacturing.
- Monitor industry news, funding activities, product launches, customer movements, competitors, and supply chain changes.
- Build and maintain a pipeline of relevant startups and technology companies in North America.
- Prepare one-page company profiles, market summaries, and opportunity assessments.
- Identify potential fit between target companies and Minth's manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, and product capabilities.
- Support customer visits, VC/startup meetings, university connections, industry events, and executive meetings.
- Prepare briefing materials, meeting notes, follow-up lists, and internal presentation materials.
- Maintain an internal opportunity pipeline and update management regularly.
Key Deliverables- Weekly technology and market intelligence updates
- Monthly trend report on robotics or AI infrastructure manufacturing
- Startup/company pipeline database
- One-page company research profiles
- Meeting notes and follow-up tracking
- Executive briefing and presentation support
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree or above in engineering, robotics, mechanical/electrical engineering, materials, computer science, business, finance, or a related field.
- 5+ years of relevant experience in market research, technology scouting, startup scouting, corporate innovation, VC/CVC research, consulting, hard-tech, robotics, AI hardware, data center infrastructure, or advanced manufacturing.
- Strong research, analysis, and information organization skills.
- Ability to quickly understand new technologies, markets, and business models.
- Able to turn complex information into clear, concise management-level materials.
- Strong English writing, communication, and presentation skills.
- Chinese language capability is preferred.
- Self-driven, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a small, fast-moving, cross-cultural team.
Preferred Qualifications- Familiarity with Silicon Valley or North American startup ecosystem.
- Experience in robotics, humanoid robotics, AI hardware, data center infrastructure, thermal management, or advanced manufacturing.
- Experience working with startups, VCs, incubators, accelerators, or hard-tech companies.
- Experience preparing company research, industry reports, or investment screening materials.
