Founding Mechanical Engineer & Cofounder

yeahvayeahva ✭
edited October 31 in Job Listings
We're building the next generation of human-machine connection: a humanoid robotics platform that isn't just functional - it's emotionally expressive. We're developing a lifelike robotic face - a platform for emotional expression and human-robot connection. Think of it as the "emotive layer" that lets humanoid robots feel more alive and relatable.

We're looking for a founding mechanical engineer who can turn expressive motion into precise, manufacturable mechanisms. Someone who enjoys working close to hardware, iterating quickly, and helping shape both the product and the culture from the beginning.

What you'll do

  • Design and prototype high-fidelity facial mechanisms - small-scale linkages, actuator systems, compliant structures - that can convey humanlike motion

  • Build and test physical prototypes: from CAD and 3D prints to silicone assemblies and final test rigs

  • Collaborate closely with the rest of the team to integrate sensors, drivers, and motion control into a unified system

  • Own the mechanical stack: materials, tolerances, manufacturability, assembly, and test plans

  • Support early manufacturing decisions - DFM/DFA, vendor coordination, and rapid iteration cycles

  • Help establish engineering practices and documentation standards as we scale


Technical requirements

  • 5+ years in mechanical design, robotics, mechatronics, or similar

  • Strong CAD and prototyping skills

  • Experience with fine-scale actuation, compliant mechanisms, or motion systems for expressive or compact applications (animatronics, medical devices, precision robotics, etc.)

  • Hands-on experience taking designs from concept to prototype and through iteration

  • Comfortable working in a small, fast-moving team - and wearing multiple hats when needed


What we value (the cultural fit)

Beyond technical skills, we're looking for someone who:

Energy & chemistry

  • You energize the people around you - we should feel excited after our conversations

  • There's natural chemistry and mutual respect in how we work together

Commitment & availability

  • All-in mentality - available to work 16-hour days when needed

  • Weekend availability when critical milestones demand it

  • In it for the mission and the long run, not just a stepping stone

Communication & collaboration

  • Clear, proactive communication - you don't wait to be asked

  • Fast response times - you keep the momentum going

  • Gives immediate, constructive feedback - no sugarcoating, but always respectful

  • Never lies - radical honesty and transparency are non-negotiable

Execution & mindset

  • Bias for action - you're a doer who figures things out by building

  • High performer where work speaks for itself, not pedigree

  • Low hubris - you're confident but humble, always learning

  • Growth mindset - you see challenges as opportunities

  • Creative problem-solver who thinks outside the box

  • Handles stress well - thrives in ambiguity and pressure


Location

In-person availability in Redwood City, CA - we're building hardware, and that requires hands-on collaboration

Why This Matters

This is an opportunity to join as a founding engineer and cofounder - shaping not only the hardware architecture but also the DNA of the company. Your work will define how lifelike expression is engineered, and you'll be part of the earliest team translating emotion into motion.

We're building technology meant to connect with people, so empathy, curiosity, and care are at the heart of everything we do.

Ready to build the future?

If you're driven by curiosity, care about human-centered robotics, and want to build something that's never existed before, we'd love to hear from you.


Let's talk. Email hello@emotis.ai and tell us about yourself, what excites you about this challenge, and why you're the right person to help bring Emotis to life.
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