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Robotics Design Engineer Jobs in Santa Ana, CA (NOW HIRING)

GrayMatter Robotics

Staff Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Our robots take on the tedious, hazardous, and ergonomically demanding work that has kept ... As a Senior Design Engineer, you will join our Design & Mechatronics team onsite in our Carson, CA ...

Socket.dev

Manufacturing Design Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$113 - $157/hr

What you will be doing As a Manufacturing Design Engineer, you will play a key role in bringing ... Experience developing manufacturing processes and production systems for drones, robotics ...

New

Technical Link

PCB Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

... design reviews * Work closely with cross-functional engineering, manufacturing, and program teams ... Experience in designing electronics for robotic and/or aircraft systems * Hands-on experience with ...

Salas O'Brien

Electrical Design Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

... robotics, and more. Our technical excellence is strengthened by an exceptional team of ... Electrical Design Engineer (In-Person) Location: Tustin, CA (In-Person) Travel: As needed, up to 50 ...

FieldAI

Robotics Autonomy Engineer - Locomotion

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100K - $230K/yr

As our Robotics Autonomy Engineer - Locomotion, you'll lead the development and deployment of ... Design policy architectures, training curricula, and domain randomization strategies that close the ...

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All JobsRobotics Design Engineer JobsRobotics Design Engineer Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Robotics Design Engineer information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$30.2K

$109.9K

$175.9K

How much do robotics design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics design engineer in Santa Ana, CA is $109,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $132,200.00 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 Santa Ana, CA?

For Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Santa Ana, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Santa Ana, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Robotics Design Engineer jobs in Santa Ana, CA are:

What cities near Santa Ana, CA are hiring for Robotics Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Ana, CA with the most Robotics Design Engineer job openings:

Robotics Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Robotics Design Engineer job openings in Santa Ana, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,890 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Sr. Robotics Design Engineer: Government Projects

GrayMatter Robotics

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Summary
GrayMatter Robotics is a well-capitalized Physical AI company headquartered in Los Angeles, building Factory SuperIntelligence (FSI) through systems that learn, adapt, and develop genuine process intelligence across every part they touch. Our robots take on the tedious, hazardous, and ergonomically demanding work that has kept manufacturing dependent on a shrinking skilled workforce, delivering superhuman performance. Robotics has a demo problem. GMR doesn't. Our systems are in active production today, adapting autonomously to real geometries, real materials, and real process variation without reprogramming. We deliver our system through a Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) model that converts capital expenditure into an operating subscription, making Physical AI accessible to the manufacturers who need it most. We hire people who want to solve hard physical problems at an industrial scale.
The Senior Robotics Design Engineer: Government Projects will enable project success by leading the design, implementation and testing of complex robotic systems including integration of industrial six-axis robots, mobile robots, robot transporters, end-of-arm tooling and associated hardware in innovative manufacturing systems.
Responsibilities
  • Partner with project teams and internal stakeholders to understand manufacturing processes, requirements, and constraints, gathering CAD files, measurements, and documentation needed for design.
  • Build 3D CAD assemblies and own robotic manufacturing cell design end to end, working with software design and mechatronics teams to optimize for reachability, cycle time, and efficiency.
  • Design and iterate on robotic workcells, tools, and end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), partnering with sensor and peripheral vendors and ensuring EOAT compliance with ISO/TR 20218-1 safety guidelines.
  • Design hardware and mechanisms for six-axis robotic systems, including transporter mechanisms (rails), and perform structural analysis and simulation to validate design integrity.
  • Prototype hardware with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) in mind, using 3D printers, CNC machines, and other tools as appropriate.
  • Own selection of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic hardware components, and work with electrical and software teams to integrate motors, sensors, and cabling within mechanical assemblies.
  • Troubleshoot and test existing hardware and automation systems, identifying opportunities to improve robustness and performance.
  • Lead mechanical risk assessments and ensure designs meet core industrial safety standards, including ISO 10218-1/-2 and ANSI/A3 R15.06.
  • Define project requirements and validate feasibility with internal and external teams; coordinate material procurement for in-house testing prior to deployment.
  • Review BOMs for completeness and maintain accurate records in PDM to support inventory management and deployment.

Export Control Requirements
In order to comply with the export regulations of the United States Government, it is required that the applicant must fall under one of the following categories: (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (i.e. current green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
  • 5+ years of robotic system design and integration experience, with six-axis industrial robots as the primary platform.
  • Experience designing 6DOF robot automation systems, including reach and layout studies and end-of-arm tool design.
  • Demonstrated experience with 3D solid modeling, analysis, and development of 2D manufacturing drawings; SolidWorks expert level.
  • Familiarity with motion control systems, robotics programming, and industrial facilities and equipment.
  • Ability to solve technical problems effectively, efficiently, and independently.
  • Effective communication skills and strong interpersonal skills to work with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Willingness to travel to customer sites as required by the role.
  • Must meet export control requirements in the United States and maintain ongoing work authorization beginning at the time of hire through the entirety of employment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 10+ years of robotic system design and integration experience.
  • Experience with industrial robot transporter design using Preston-Eastin or Güdel tracks.
  • Experience with sensor integration and calibration for robotics applications, including 3D vision systems.
  • Industry experience within a manufacturing environment working with industrial automation, process development, or manufacturing engineering.
  • Experience programming 6DOF robots for surface finishing applications such as sanding, grinding, or blasting.
  • Defense or government industry experience.

GrayMatter Robotics provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage and embrace applicants of all backgrounds to apply!
GrayMatter Robotics is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities. If you believe you require accommodations during the recruiting process, please contact accommodations@graymatter-robotics.com to submit your request.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Depending on the position and if listed, compensation may include the base salary range, bonus or commission, and equity. We also provide comprehensive benefits and perks which include but are not limited to medical, dental, vision, unlimited PTO, 401(k) plan + employer match, regular offsite events, a discretionary fund for enhancing productivity and so much more! The range listed on job postings reflect the minimum and maximum new hire salary across levels in Los Angeles, CA.

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