Staff Robotics Engineer - Hardware

As a Staff Robotics Engineer - Hardware at Relativity Space, your primary responsibilities include designing and developing advanced robotic hardware systems, especially those that enhance our manufacturing and space exploration capabilities. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, conduct rigorous testing, mentor junior engineers, and push the boundaries of design by integrating cutting-edge technologies in robotics and automation.

To qualify for the Staff Robotics Engineer - Hardware role at Relativity Space, candidates should possess a BS, MS, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or Robotics, along with at least 7 years of hands-on experience in robotics hardware design. A strong background in designing robotic arms, AGVs, or AMRs, proficiency in CAD tools, and a good grasp of industrial communication protocols are also essential.

The Robotics Team at Relativity Space plays a critical role in advancing our Stargate 3D-printing platform, ensuring that robotics are effectively integrated into large-scale additive manufacturing processes. By developing robotic systems that enhance production capabilities and support automation, the team helps drive innovation in the production of large metal structures essential for aerospace applications.

In the role of Staff Robotics Engineer - Hardware, you will work with advanced technologies, including robot manipulators, autonomous mobile robots, and various sensors such as cameras and LiDAR. You will be involved in cutting-edge mechatronics, automation systems, and collaborative robotics applications, all aimed at enhancing manufacturing processes and paving the way for future space exploration.

At Relativity Space, a Staff Robotics Engineer - Hardware can expect ample career growth opportunities through mentoring roles, leading complex projects, and pushing the boundaries of technology. Given our focus on innovation and collaboration, engineers can also enhance their skills in cutting-edge fields like AI/ML for robotics and gain experience working on monumental projects that contribute to space exploration.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects you’ve worked on that involved designing robotic hardware. Discuss relevant technologies and software you’ve used, and how your designs addressed challenges or improved performance. This showcases your practical expertise and problem-solving skills in robotics.

Discuss your experience working with various teams, emphasizing communication methods and how you facilitate effective collaboration. Mention specific examples of projects where cross-functional teamwork led to successful outcomes, demonstrating your ability to integrate diverse perspectives in design.

Focus on key safety standards relevant to robotics, such as ISO 10218 and ISO/TS 15066. Explain how you ensure compliance with these standards throughout the design and testing phases. Providing specific examples of safety measures you've implemented will reinforce your commitment to safety in robotics.

Narrate a specific situation where you encountered a significant challenge in hardware design. Explain your thought process and the steps you took to resolve the issue, highlighting your problem-solving skills and innovative thinking as a Staff Robotics Engineer.

Mention the use of industry publications, attending workshops, participating in online courses, and engaging with professional networks. Highlight your proactive approach to continuous learning, which is vital in the fast-evolving field of robotics.

Be specific about the types of robotic systems you’ve designed, such as specific models of robotic arms or autonomous mobile robots. Discuss your role in these projects, any challenges you faced, and the successes that resulted from your designs.

Talk about your approach to mentorship, including specific strategies you use to provide guidance and support. Include anecdotes of successful mentorship experiences that demonstrate how you help junior engineers grow their skills and confidence.

Explain how you utilize simulation tools to validate designs before prototyping, emphasizing how they can improve accuracy and reduce timeframes. Share examples of specific projects where simulations played a crucial role in the design process.

Discuss current challenges such as integration with existing systems, ensuring reliability and safety, and adapting to the speed of technological advancements. Show that you are knowledgeable about industry trends and have thought critically about solutions to these challenges.

Detail your proficiency with specific CAD tools, such as NX or SolidWorks, along with examples of projects you’ve designed using these tools. Discuss how these tools influence your design process and enable precise, high-quality outputs.