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Robotics Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mind Robotics

Mechanical Design Engineer, Hands

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

About Mind Mind Robotics is building Physical AI for real-world industrial deployment, starting ... As a Mechanical Engineer on our Hands team, you will be responsible for designing, prototyping, and ...

Raydar

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

About the company Our client builds autonomous robots for physical data center operations. Its in ... The role We are hiring a Mechanical Design Engineer to own critical robotic subsystems from early ...

Raydar

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

About the company Our client builds autonomous robots for physical data center operations. Its in ... The role We are hiring a Mechanical Design Engineer to own critical robotic subsystems from early ...

D24 Search

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$150K - $200K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Series A Robotics Start Up. San Francisco, CA (onsite) Up to $200K + Equity My client is a Series A funded start up on a mission use AI, robotics, and biology to accelerate ...

New

Sorting Robotics

Robotics engineer

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Sorting Robotics Inc. is looking for a robotics Engineer to design, develop, and deploy robotic solutions to manufacturing companies. This position is a Mid-level position requiring 5-10 years of ...

Sorting Robotics

Robotics engineer

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Sorting Robotics Inc. is looking for a robotics Engineer to design, develop, and deploy robotic solutions to manufacturing companies. This position is a Mid-level position requiring 5-10 years of ...

Sorting Robotics

Robotics engineer

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Sorting Robotics Inc. is looking for a robotics Engineer to design, develop, and deploy robotic solutions to manufacturing companies. This position is a Mid-level position requiring 5-10 years of ...

Pantograph

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

We think the path to capable robots runs through general intelligence rather than narrow, robot ... We're looking for a broadly talented hands-on mechanical engineer to design, prototype, and scale ...

Pantograph

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

We think the path to capable robots runs through general intelligence rather than narrow, robot ... We're looking for a broadly talented hands‑on mechanical engineer to design, prototype, and scale ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRobotics Design Engineer JobsRobotics Design Engineer Jobs in California

Robotics Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$104.2K

$166.8K

How much do robotics design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics design engineer in California is $104,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $125,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a robotics design engineer do?

A Robotics Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing robotic systems and components. They use principles from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to create robots that can perform specific tasks or functions. Their work involves creating blueprints, modeling designs, selecting appropriate materials, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the robots meet performance and safety standards. Robotics Design Engineers also troubleshoot and refine prototypes, ensuring their reliability and efficiency before deployment. This role is crucial in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and automation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robotics design engineer?

To thrive as a Robotics Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering, usually with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency in CAD software, programming languages like Python or C++, and experience with robotics platforms such as ROS are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure the effective design, integration, and troubleshooting of advanced robotic systems for diverse applications.

What are some common challenges faced by robotics design engineers when transitioning prototypes to mass production?

Robotics Design Engineers often encounter challenges when moving from prototype development to mass production, such as ensuring component reliability, optimizing designs for manufacturability, and maintaining cost efficiency without sacrificing performance. They must collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to refine product designs, address supply chain constraints, and ensure that regulatory standards are met. Effective communication and iterative testing are essential to identify and resolve issues early, facilitating a smoother transition to large-scale manufacturing.

What is the difference between Robotics Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectRobotics Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; often certifications in robotics or automationBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional engineering license (PE) optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, robotics development facilities, manufacturing settingsManufacturing plants, design offices, research labs
Industry UsageRobotics companies, automation firms, research institutionsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design
Common Search/ComparisonRobotics Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer

Robotics Design Engineers focus on creating robotic systems, integrating sensors, actuators, and control systems, often requiring knowledge of electronics and programming. Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical components and systems, with a broader scope across various industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, Robotics Design Engineers typically have specialized skills in robotics and automation, making them distinct yet overlapping with Mechanical Engineers in certain projects.

Do robotics design engineers get paid well?

Robotics design engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to the specialized skills required, such as knowledge of mechanical systems, programming, and CAD tools. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and location but generally align with engineering industry standards for technical roles.

What do robotics design engineers design?

Robotics design engineers develop and create robotic systems, including mechanical components, electrical circuits, and control software. They use CAD software and simulation tools to design robots for applications such as manufacturing, healthcare, or exploration, ensuring functionality, safety, and efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Robotics Design Engineer jobs in California?

For Robotics Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Robotics Design Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Robotics Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Robotics Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Robotics Design Engineer job openings:

Robotics Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Design Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,222 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Design Engineer (NPI & Robotics)

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Skild AI
See more jobs at Skild AIexternal

$83K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

The Manufacturing Design Engineer will support the transition of robotic prototypes into small-scale production. This role combines mechanical design with hands-on assembly, working directly with hardware to ensure systems can be built, tested, and maintained reliably. You will design the fixtures, tooling, and processes required to assemble and operate a small fleet of robots, while collaborating closely with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and build efficiency as designs evolve.

Responsibilities
  • Use CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar) to design and iterate on assembly jigs, test fixtures, and specialized tooling that improve build speed and repeatability.
  • Perform full-system assembly of robotic prototypes and small-batch production units, integrating mechanical, electrical, and sensing components.
  • Build and route cable harnesses, integrate sensors and actuators, and bring robotic subsystems together into functional platforms.
  • Provide DFM/DFA feedback during early design phases to identify assembly challenges and improve robustness, serviceability, and scalability.
  • Create and maintain assembly procedures, bills of materials (BOMs), and test protocols that enable consistent builds across the fleet.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Background in a technician, assembly, robotics, or shop-heavy environment. Comfortable using common hand tools, power tools, and lab equipment.
  • Professional experience designing functional parts, fixtures, or mechanical systems in a modern CAD environment.
  • Ability to read electrical schematics and perform tasks such as crimping, soldering, and cable harness fabrication.
  • Experience working with evolving hardware designs and supporting the transition from prototype to production.
  • Experience writing manufacturing process instructions (MPIs) or assembly documentation
  • Hands-on prototyping experience with 3D printing, mills, or lathes
  • Familiarity with hardware version control processes (ECOs/ECNs) and documentation systems
  • Experience building or assembling robotic systems

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