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Lead Robotics Engineer, Head System

1X
Full-time
On-site
Palo Alto, California, United States
Ai Robotics Engineer

Why this job is exciting

  • You'll be on a team with a large set of responsibilities, requiring interaction with hardware, firmware, AI, platforms and production teams, all working towards building the world’s safest and most capable humanoid robot.
  • The controls team is the first user of the hardware so you will play a key role in hardware design and sensor evaluation.
  • In time, your software will run on 1000's of humanoids performing tasks in diverse environments, globally.
  • You’ll be working with a 50+ DoF biped, with hands, all driven by motors we design and manufacture in-house. If this doesn’t excite you then 🤷

Responsibilities:

  • Own and lead the design of the robot’s head system — from sensors and LEDs to audio, mechanics, and embedded software.
  • Coordinate a cross-functional team (ME, EE, SWE, FWE) to take concepts from prototype to production.
  • Define architecture, roadmap, and technical direction for the next-generation head system.
  • Work directly with vendors on sourcing, integration, and custom component development.
  • Balance constraints across hardware, software, cost, and experience — and make the hard calls when needed.

Must-Haves:

  • Proven experience leading multi-disciplinary hardware+software teams through complex product development.
  • Deep technical expertise in at least two relevant domains — e.g. embedded systems, EE, robotics, optics, audio, or thermal/mechanical design.
  • Comfortable getting into the weeds: reading datasheets, writing firmware, debugging signals, or modeling thermal loads.
  • Excellent system-level thinking — can connect design, constraints, and user experience across the stack.
  • Strong communication skills — able to align vendors, internal teams, and leadership behind a clear plan.

Nice-to-Haves:

  • Experience shipping robotic or electromechanical systems at scale.
  • Background working with expressive output systems — e.g. LEDs, audio, actuation.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing, DFM/DFA, and end-of-line testing.
  • Worked with cross-site or external vendor teams on hardware development.
  • Visionary mindset — someone who doesn’t just follow roadmaps, but writes them.


Location Policy

We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations.


We're excited to get to know you and the prospects of having you on board!