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Mechanical Engineer - Hand/End-Effector Design

personaai
Full-time
On-site
Houston, Texas, United States
Engineering

                                                                         

Persona AI is developing and commercializing a multi-purpose humanoid robot for manufacturing and other industries. Persona and its staff have a long history in humanoid research and development and are positioned to be a commercial leader in bringing these capable machines to market.

If you're passionate about cutting-edge technology and want to be part of a world-class team that's driving the future of manufacturing and humanoids, we'd love to hear from you.

We're looking for an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to drive our integrated hardware engineering strategy. We are primarily interested in candidates who have developed and released products to market in the field of autonomy and robotics, but can be flexible depending on aptitude and energy. 

As one of the inaugural Mechanical Engineers at Persona, you will have an incredible opportunity to get in at the beginning to shape the design and development of Persona’s humanoid robot. 

How will you be part of the team? 

  • Work closely with the engineering team to conceptualize, specify, and implement mechanical architectures for various robotic platforms to include robotic manipulators and humanoid robotic systems.

  • Generate documentation for the designs, as well as block diagrams, test plans and procedures, and fabrication and assembly drawings.

  • Interface with external manufacturing teams to enhance design for test, manufacturing, and assembly.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues, ensuring reliability and performance.

  • Evaluate and select components and materials to meet project requirements.

  • Conduct simulations and performance analyses to optimize system functionality.

What does an ideal background look like?

  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or related field.

  • 6+ years of experience in designing complex robotic systems, including end-effectors and robotic hands with 3+ phalanges, using CAD tools like OnShape or SolidWorks.

  • Strong knowledge of kinematics, statics, dynamics, and mechanisms, with experience optimizing electromechanical packaging and joints.

  • Hands-on experience with materials selection (metals, polymers, composites) and fabrication techniques, including rapid prototyping, machining, and 3D printing.

  • Expertise in integrating actuation systems (e.g., servo/stepper motors, compliant mechanisms) and sensors (e.g., force, tactile, position) into robotic designs.

  • Experience in building robust and reliable designs through GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and lifecycle considerations (wear, fatigue, and durability).

  • Proven ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software) to develop, troubleshoot, and optimize robotic systems under tight constraints.

What are additional examples of skills that would make a candidate stand out?

  • Experience designing and developing humanoid robots 

  • Direct experience building and delivering working hand designs

  • Experience with embedded electronics and basic motor control

Persona AI embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Location: Houston, TX