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Robotics Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OSI Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join a small ... robotics, electronics, optics, etc. * Capable of independently managing complex projects with ...

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

$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

Los Angeles, 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

$120 - $180/hr

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 ...

New

OpenAI

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$295K - $380K/yr

About the Team Our Robotics team is focused on unlocking general-purpose robotics and pushing ... About the Role We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and ...

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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 Aug 22, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,222 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Motor/Actuator Design Engineer

Western Magnetics

South San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Westmag

Westmag is the American manufacturer of drone motors and robot actuators, backed by Andreessen Horowitz, Founders Fund, Lux Capital, NFDG, Menlo Ventures, and other top investors. Westmag is committed to building and scaling in the U.S. to serve the global market. For more information, visit westmag.com.

About the role

As a Motor/Actuator Design Engineer at Westmag, you will play a critical role in the design and development of advanced drone motors and robotic actuators. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to create high-efficiency, reliable, and innovative motor solutions that meet customer requirements. Your work will directly impact Westmag's position as a leader in drone and robotics motor technology.

What you'll own
  • Design and optimize motor and actuator architectures for drone and robotic applications.
  • Develop detailed motor design specifications, including electrical, mechanical, and thermal considerations.
  • Simulate and analyze motor performance using relevant software tools.
  • Work cross-functionally with Field Applications Engineers, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
  • Support prototyping, testing, and validation of new motor designs and contribute to continuous product improvements.
  • Document design processes, test results, and design revisions.
  • Stay current on emerging technologies and industry trends in motor and actuator design.

Requirements

Required qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 3+ years of experience in motor or actuator design, preferably in drone, robotics, or aerospace industries.
  • Strong foundation in electric motor theory including electromagnetic design, thermal management, and mechanical design.
  • Proficiency with motor design and simulation software (e.g., FEMM, ANSYS Maxwell, or equivalent).
  • Experience with CAD tools for mechanical design (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA).
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
  • Authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred qualifications
  • Experience designing brushless DC motors, actuators, or similar electromechanical devices.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes for motor components and assemblies.
  • Hands-on experience with prototype testing and validation.
  • Familiarity with drone or robotics industry requirements and standards.

Apply