What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineer position at Launchpad Build AI?
Join Launchpad Build AI in El Segundo, CA, to design cutting-edge hardware for autonomous manufacturing. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will design complex robotic subsystems and integrate physical hardware with the company's proprietary Manufacturing Language Model (MLM™), bridging the gap between advanced artificial intelligence and the factory floor.
Position Summary
Launchpad Build AI is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer to assist in the mechanical design, prototyping, and iterative development of our self-programming robotic systems and automation hardware. You will collaborate closely with software engineers, computer vision experts, and AI modelers to ensure our physical robotic assemblies perform reliably in dynamic, real-world manufacturing environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Design & Analysis: Design complex mechanisms, robotic effectors, and automated assembly fixtures using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks or equivalent).
- AI Integration: Collaborate with our AI and Software teams to package and integrate sensors, actuators, and vision systems into robust electromechanical assemblies.
- Prototyping & Testing: Rapidly build and test physical prototypes. Develop validation protocols to evaluate structural integrity, payload capacity, friction, wear, and failure modes.
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM/DFA): Transition hardware from early-stage prototypes to scalable, manufacturable products that can be deployed into customer sites.
- Sustaining Engineering: Investigate field performance data, diagnose mechanical failures, and implement design modifications to improve system reliability.
- Vendor Collaboration: Work with suppliers and contract manufacturers for rapid prototyping, sourcing, and parts procurement.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education: B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related engineering discipline.
- Experience: 2 years of hands-on professional experience in mechanical or robotics design, moving products from prototype through early production.
- Technical Skills:
- Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling, GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), and creation of manufacturing drawings.
- Deep understanding of structural load paths, kinematics, drivetrain components (motors, gears, actuators), and thermal management.
- Experience designing custom end-of-arm tooling, jigs, or electromechanical enclosures.
- Cross-Functional Mindset: Comfort working in a multidisciplinary environment alongside software engineers, computer vision researchers, and AI scientists.
- Work Location: Based at our U.S. Headquarters in El Segundo, CA (requires full in-person presence).
Why Join Launchpad Build AI?
We are transforming manufacturing by uniting advanced robotics with our world-first Manufacturing Language Model (MLM™) to accelerate automation. Backed by leading investors including Lockheed Martin Ventures and Squadra Ventures, we offer a fast-paced, high-autonomy environment where your mechanical designs will directly address real-world labor shortages.
To view our broader mission and team, or to apply directly, please visit the Launchpad Build AI homepage. Explore current openings and corporate details on the Launchpad Build AI LinkedIn page.