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Soft Robotics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dandy

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Profound knowledge of robotic kinematics/dynamics, motor controllers, and simulation tools * Hands-on experience with sensor integration, embedded systems, and manufacturing design execution. * Soft ...

Dandy

Sr Mechanical Engineer [Milpitas, CA]

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Profound knowledge of robotic kinematics/dynamics, motor controllers, and simulation tools * Hands-on experience with sensor integration, embedded systems, and manufacturing design execution. * Soft ...

OpenAI

Lead Thermal Simulation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$342K - $445K/yr

Build simulation models to evaluate robotic actuators, transmissions, mechanisms, structures, soft goods, and integrated assemblies * Correlate simulation results with physical testing and develop ...

1X Technologies AS

Biomechanics Researcher

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

About 1X We're building humanoid robots that work in home - doing the chores, handling the tasks ... soft tissues, tactile systems, or locomotion dynamics What does a successful 1X Team Member look ...

Jj

Principal Electrical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$163K - $199K/yr

OTTAVA is designed as a multi-specialty soft-tissue surgery robot, activating the benefits of AI/ML, connecting health data inside the operating room and out. Overview: We are seeking a Principal ...

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Soft Robotics information

See California salary details

$82.9K

$94.7K

$115K

How much do soft robotics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for soft robotics in California is $94,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $100,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a soft robotics?

A Soft Robotics job involves designing, developing, and testing robots made from flexible, compliant materials. These robots are often used for tasks requiring delicate handling, adaptability, or safe human interaction. Professionals in this field work in areas like medical devices, automation, and bio-inspired robotics. They typically have backgrounds in mechanical engineering, materials science, or computer science. The role may involve programming, prototyping, and analyzing robotic systems for various applications.

What skills and qualifications are needed for soft robotics?

To excel in Soft Robotics, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and robotics, often supported by advanced degrees or specialized training. Familiarity with design and simulation software (e.g., SolidWorks, MATLAB), rapid prototyping tools, and experience with soft materials fabrication techniques are commonly expected. Creative problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this multidisciplinary field. These abilities are crucial for developing innovative robotic solutions, collaborating across diverse teams, and successfully translating concepts into functional prototypes.

What does a soft robotics do?

Professionals in Soft Robotics are often involved in designing, prototyping, and testing robotic systems that use flexible and compliant materials. Day-to-day work can include hands-on fabrication, modeling and simulation, and iterative experimentation to refine robotic mechanisms. Collaboration is key, as you’ll frequently work with experts from fields like electronics, biology, materials science, and computer science to solve complex engineering challenges. This role offers the opportunity to work in multidisciplinary teams, contributing to innovative projects that advance both research and real-world applications in areas like healthcare, manufacturing, and wearable technology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Soft Robotics jobs in California? The most popular types of Soft Robotics jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Soft Robotics jobs in California? For Soft Robotics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Soft Robotics jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Soft Robotics jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Soft Robotics jobs? Cities in California with the most Soft Robotics job openings:
Soft Robotics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soft Robotics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,742 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Senior Engineering Technician (Machinist)

Droyd Robotics

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$25.50 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

About the team
Droyd builds autonomous robotic systems that automate repetitive manual work in production environments.
Because our hardware team moves quickly, the machine shop and prototype lab are core to how we iterate and build.
The prototype team at Droyd supports both R&D and production. The work ranges from one-off parts and fixtures to repeatable components that keep engineering moving.
About the role
As a Sr. Prototype Technician at Droyd, you'll support the day-to-day operation of the prototype lab and help keep hardware work moving. You will take ownership of precision machined parts from start to finish, while also providing crucial cross-functional team support by assisting with 3D printing workflows and assembly tasks as needed. You'll oversee shop organization, maintain machine readiness, coordinate material handling, and execute the practical tasks that keep prototyping and production efficient.
This is a hands-on role in a fast-paced prototype and R&D environment where you will work closely with engineers and fellow technicians to turn complex designs into high-quality hardware. This role is ideal for someone hands-on, reliable, collaborative, and excited to work around real hardware every day.
This role is based in San Francisco, CA. We're an in-person company. We build faster that way.
In this role, you'll
  • Machine parts and fixtures to support prototype and production hardware.
  • Work from CAD models, drawings, and engineering input to produce accurate components using detailed engineering prints and advanced GD&T callouts.
  • Program, set up, and operate CNC machines for fast-turn and repeatable work, including 3-axis CNC mills and lathes across a wide array of materials.
  • Support iteration on mechanical designs with strong attention to tolerances, tooling, and manufacturability, providing actionable design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback to engineers.
  • Develop efficient CAM programs utilizing Fusion 360 (or other industry-standard software) to define tooling strategies, cutting parameters, and toolpaths for complex geometries.
  • Design and fabricate custom workholding, including soft jaws and vacuum fixtures for one-off and low-volume prototype parts.
  • Inspect and verify parts using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and indicators, executing process adjustments to prevent machining defects or tolerance drift.
  • Provide secondary operational support for 3D printing technologies (FDM, Resin, SLS), assisting with machine minding, material preparation, build clearing, and routine post-processing.
  • Serve as a backup operator for basic cable fabrication and harness assembly, assisting as needed to interpret schematics, pinouts, and wiring diagrams to support electrical builds.
  • Help improve shop throughput, part quality, and repeatability by documenting machining and additive setups, process instructions, and inspection logs.
  • Coordinate with engineers and assembly teams to prioritize urgent work, helping to balance shop logistics, capacity, and material needs.
  • Maintain strong standards for safety, cleanliness, and machine care, including preventative machine maintenance and strict EHS lab compliance.
We're looking for someone who
  • Has strong hands-on machining experience, including 3+ years of precision CNC programming, setup, and multi-axis machining in a fast-paced prototype or R&D environment.
  • Has strong experience working with CNC machines and setting up CAM tool paths for 3-axis to 5-axis equipment (Fusion 360 proficiency preferred).
  • Understands tooling, workholding, tolerances, and machining strategy at a high level, with a deep understanding of feeds, speeds, and holding tight dimensions below 0.001 inch (0.025mm).
  • Can produce quality parts with speed and consistency across various engineering metals, polymers, and ceramics.
  • Is comfortable working closely with engineering teams in a rapid prototyping environment, communicating clearly when flagging drawing ambiguities or geometric risks.
  • Has strong attention to detail and pride in shop work, showing solid organization and independent judgment when resolving hardware issues.
  • Can adapt quickly as priorities change under demanding schedule constraints.
  • Is highly organized and comfortable in a hands-on technical environment, with the physical ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Works well with both technicians and engineers, acting as a dependable cross-functional partner on the floor.
  • Is proactive, dependable, and eager to learn emerging fabrication workflows.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced hardware environment where ownership and execution are critical.
Nice to have
  • Exposure to other shop workflows such as basic 3D printing, laser cutting, or post-processing operations.
  • Experience programming or operating CMMs or working with advanced metrology platforms.
  • Experience with TIG welding, advanced sheet metal fabrication, or other structural joining processes.
  • Experience documenting data (inspection logs, nonconformances, setup sheets) within an MES, PLM, or ERP system.
About Droyd
Droyd builds autonomous robotic systems to automate manual work for enterprises. We design the hardware, write the control stack, and deploy robots that operate in real environments.
If we do this right, robots stop being prototypes and start being infrastructure.
Join us and help build hardware that ships.

Apply