What we needSymbotic is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Senior Mechanical Test Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of manufacturing test fixtures for complex electromechanical and robotic systems. This role is responsible for owning fixture development from concept through production deployment, including structural design, actuation systems, integration, validation, and manufacturing support.
The ideal candidate has deep experience in mechanical design, fixture development, automation systems, and hands-on debugging, along with proven leadership capabilities. This individual will lead technical projects, mentor junior engineers, collaborate cross-functionally with Electrical, Software, Manufacturing, and Operations teams, and drive scalable manufacturing test solutions across internal sites and Contract Manufacturers (CMs).
What you'll do- Lead the design and development of mechanical test fixtures for subassemblies and end-of-line testing, including structural frames, enclosures, tooling, and mounting systems.
- Create and review detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings using SolidWorks or equivalent CAD tools.
- Own fixture build, integration, and validation activities including hands-on assembly, alignment, tolerance verification, and mechanical debugging.
- Design and integrate automated actuation systems including pneumatics, motors, linear actuators, and motion control mechanisms for manufacturing test applications.
- Perform advanced mechanical debugging and root cause analysis to resolve fixture failures, reliability issues, and product-related mechanical problems.
- Collaborate closely with Electrical and Software Engineering teams to integrate sensors, wiring, controls, safety systems, and automation into test fixtures.
- Lead deployment and sustainment efforts at internal manufacturing sites and Contract Manufacturers (CMs), including troubleshooting, issue resolution, and continuous improvements.
- Drive design improvements focused on fixture robustness, repeatability, ergonomics, cycle time reduction, manufacturability, and cost optimization.
- Define fixture standards, validation plans, and best practices for scalable manufacturing test platforms.
- Lead technical projects, coordinate timelines, and ensure successful execution from concept through production readiness.
- Mentor junior engineers and technicians by providing technical guidance, design reviews, and debugging support.
- Support new product introduction (NPI) activities and manufacturing ramp efforts.
What you'll need- BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 8+ years of hands-on experience in fixture design, automation systems, or manufacturing engineering.
- Strong proficiency in 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred) and creation of detailed engineering drawings and assemblies.
- Extensive experience designing and building mechanical fixtures, automation systems, or manufacturing equipment.
- Strong hands-on experience with fabrication, machining, assembly, alignment, and mechanical debugging.
- Deep understanding of mechanical systems including tolerancing, GD&T, material selection, structural integrity, vibration, and reliability considerations.
- Experience designing and integrating actuation systems including pneumatics, motors, linear motion systems, and automated mechanisms.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, fixture ergonomics, and design-for-manufacturing principles.
- Experience working closely with Electrical and Controls Engineering teams for full system integration.
- Proven experience supporting manufacturing environments and Contract Manufacturers (CMs).
- Proven ability to lead technical projects, manage priorities, and mentor junior engineers.
- Strong communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience designing modular and scalable fixture platforms across multiple products or manufacturing lines.
- Familiarity with DFM/DFA (Design for Manufacturing/Assembly) principles.
- Experience working with robotics systems, automated equipment, or electromechanical products.
- Exposure to basic electrical integration including cable routing, connector interfaces, enclosure integration, and sensor mounting.
- Experience improving cycle time, operator ergonomics, reliability, and usability in high-volume production environments.
- Familiarity with rapid prototyping, sheet metal design, machining, and fabrication processes.
Key Traits - Strong builder mindset with the ability to design, build, debug, and deploy production-ready systems.
- High ownership and accountability from concept through deployment.
- Comfortable working in fast-paced manufacturing and development environments.
- Detail-oriented with strong focus on robustness, repeatability, and operator usability.
- Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
Our Environment- Onsite Requirement: Based at HQ (ITC); this is not a remote role.
- Travel: Up to 20% to support customer and Contract Manufacturer (CM) sites.
- Work Environment: Lab, manufacturing floor, and office settings.
- Customer Site Support: Required as needed for deployment and troubleshooting.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs.
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The base range for this position in the posted location is $125,000.00 - $187,000.00 however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes medical, dental, vision, disability, 401K, PTO and/or other benefits.
