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R&D Hardware Engineering Manager

R&D Hardware Engineering Manager

Agility RoboticsSalem, OR, US
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R&D Hardware Engineering Manager

Agility Robotics is a pioneer. Our robot, Digit, is the first to be sold into workplaces across the globe. Our team is differentiated by its expertise in imagining, engineering, and delivering robots with advanced mobility, dexterity, intelligence, and efficiency robots specifically designed to work alongside people, in spaces built for people. Every day, we break through engineering challenges and invent new solutions and capabilities that will one day make robots commonplace and approachable. This work is our passion and our responsibility : our mission is to make businesses more productive and people's lives more fulfilling.

About the Team

Agility Robotics is building the future of bipedal robotics with Digit, a human-centric, multipurpose robot designed to work alongside people in real-world environments. The Innovation Team is a nimble, skunkworks-style R&D group working directly with company leadership (CTO and Chief Robot Officer) to explore and de-risk bold concepts that will shape the future generations of Digit.

About the Role

We are seeking a hands-on engineering leader who is passionate about building cutting-edge robotic systems and thrives in a fast-paced, ambiguous R&D environment. This role includes managing a small team (36 engineers) with a focus heavily weighted toward individual contribution (IC) in mechanical design and rapid prototyping. You will own mechanical subsystems end-to-end : from concept and CAD, through prototyping, testing, iteration, and cross-functional collaboration. You'll also guide IC engineers, lead reviews, help us hire, and shape development processes to enhance team effectiveness and quality.

This is an ideal opportunity for a high-performing mechanical engineer with deep technical expertise and at least 3 years of leadership experience, looking to remain close to the technical work while having an outsized impact on a small, elite team.

About the Work :

  • Lead mechanical design of new prototype subsystems (e.g., novel actuators, transmissions, legs, arms, feet, BLDC motors, grippers, etc.)
  • Own concept development, analysis, CAD (Creo), and prototype build / test cycles
  • Conduct engineering calculations, FEA collaboration, and tolerance stack-up for proof-of-concept hardware
  • Develop test protocols and root cause investigations for your subsystems
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with software, controls, electrical, test, and manufacturing engineers
  • Drive data-driven design and simplicity-first approaches
  • Document work rigorously using tools like Jira, Confluence, and Windchill
  • Manage, mentor, and develop a small team of mechanical engineers (36), providing technical coaching for earlier-career engineers, career development, and feedback
  • Ensure execution toward high-priority R&D goals
  • Plan and lead design reviews, aligning with internal stakeholders (including CTO and Chief Robot Officer)
  • Help define lightweight, effective processes for a high-functioning R&D team
  • Contribute to hiring efforts and promote a culture of curiosity, rigor, and rapid iteration

About You :

  • You love designing elegant and functional mechanical systems from scratch, often with difficult-to-define requirements
  • You're an expert problem solver who thrives in self-driven, ambiguous, fast-moving environments
  • You're excited to stay close to the design and prototyping process
  • You're experienced in leading teams, but still hands-on and deeply technical
  • B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 8+ years of mechanical design experience
  • At least 3 years of technical leadership or people management experience
  • Expertise in electromechanical system design (e.g., mechanisms, actuators, structural systems, sensor integration)
  • Expert-level proficiency in CAD (PTC Creo preferred), including mechanical drawings and GD&T
  • Strong communication skills and ability to guide technical discussions
  • Experience designing, prototyping, and testing complex mechanical subsystems
  • Willingness to be on-site in Salem, OR at least 3 days / week

    • Bonus Points :

  • Robotics or autonomous systems experience
  • Creo surfacing and cable routing
  • Windchill PLM, Jira, and Confluence experience
  • Experience with test design and execution
  • Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in mechanical engineering or related discipline

    • Benefits :

  • 401(k) Plan : Includes a 6% company match.
  • Equity : Company stock options.
  • Insurance Coverage : 100% company-paid medical, dental, vision, and short / long-term disability insurance for employees.
  • Benefit Start Date : Eligible for benefits on your first day of employment.
  • Well-Being Support : Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Time Off :

    • Exempt Employees : Flexible, unlimited PTO and 10 company holidays, including a winter shutdown.

  • Non-Exempt Employees : 10 vacation days, paid sick leave, and 10 company holidays, including a winter shutdown, annually.
  • On-Site Perks : Catered lunches four times a week and a variety of healthy snacks and refreshments at our Salem and Pittsburgh locations.
  • Parental Leave : Generous paid parental leave programs.
  • Work Environment : A culture that supports flexible work arrangements.
  • Growth Opportunities : Professional development and tuition reimbursement programs.
  • Relocation Assistance : Provided for eligible roles.

    • Agility Robotics is committed to a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Each individual has the right to work in a professional atmosphere that promotes equal employment opportunities and prohibits unlawful discriminatory practices, including harassment. Therefore, it is the policy of Agility Robotics to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Agility Robotics prohibits any such discrimination or harassment.

    Agility Robotics does not accept unsolicited referrals from third-party recruiting agencies. We prioritize direct applicants and encourage all qualified candidates to apply directly through our careers page. If you are represented by a third party, your application may not be considered. To ensure full consideration, please apply directly.

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    Engineering Manager • Salem, OR, US