Mechanical Engineer - Hands (Compliant Elements)

<p>Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is based in San Jose, CA and requires 5 days/week in-office collaboration.</p> <p data-path-to-node="5">We are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer with specific expertise in softgoods, elastomers, and complex plastics to join our Hands team. In this role, you will own the development of advanced robotic hand components and interfaces from concept through production. The ideal candidate has operated in a high-tech, fast-paced environment, is comfortable driving across multiple stakeholders, and has a strong background in materials characterization, complex injection molding, and validation of flexible systems. Robotics experience is not required.</p> <p><strong>Responsibilities:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Design mechanical parts and assemblies in 3D CAD that meet structural, durability, manufacturability, and industrial design requirements—with a specific focus on flexible substrates, overmolding, and skin/grip interfaces.</li> <li>Generate accurate 2D drawings using GD&amp;T in accordance with ASME Y14.5.</li> <li>Perform tolerance stack-ups and review quality and inspection reports to ensure design intent is met for both rigid and elastomeric/molded parts.</li> <li>Prototype, build, and test components / systems to validate tactile performance, material durability, reliability, and lifetime requirements.</li> <li>Lead and support testing / validation efforts at the component, module, and system level.</li> <li>Collaborate closely with electrical engineers and systems/integration teams on electromechanical designs, routing, and environmental sealing.</li> <li>Partner with supply chain, contract manufacturers, toolmakers, and quality teams to drive softgoods and plastic designs through NPI and into high-volume production.</li> <li>Own and drive Failure Analysis &amp; Corrective Actions (FA/CA) for complex material, molding, or mechanical issues discovered during manufacturing, testing, or field use.</li> <li>Inspect first articles (including mold trials and T1 samples), support build readiness, and continuously support hardware on development platforms.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Requirements:&nbsp;</strong></p> <ul> <li>3+ years of experience in mechanical engineering with a proven track record in softgoods, plastics, or elastomer product design.</li> <li>Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical, Biomechanical, Material Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a similar field.</li> <li>Expert in using 3D CAD software to design parts with com