Mechanical Engineer, Data Collection Hardware

Persona AI Inc•Pensacola, FL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Persona is hiring a Mechanical Engineer focused on data-collection hardware for humanoid robotics. The role bridges human operators and humanoid kinematics, initially through rapid development of handheld Universal Manipulation Interface (UMI) devices that capture delicate contact dynamics and force and tactile feedback. The engineer will design and build the physical hardware operators use to collect human demonstrations for robot foundation models. The role may later include architecting and building a robot hand and human exoskeletons. The work combines rapid prototyping with precision engineering. It covers UMI frames, grippers, mounting rigs, sensors, actuators, consoles, and operator workstations, with attention to ergonomics, manufacturing, assembly, environmental protection, shock and vibration, and thermal considerations. The position is based in Pensacola, Florida, and includes 10% travel. Persona builds humanoid robots for demanding heavy-industry environments, including shipyards, steel mills, fabrication facilities, and offshore platforms. The company works with industrial leaders across Korea, Japan, the United States, and Singapore, with Korea central to its early commercial strategy. Persona offers competitive compensation, a performance-based bonus, employer-covered medical benefits for most healthcare plans, early-stage equity, competitive paid time off, and a company-wide paid winter break from December 24 through January 2. The company describes its work environment as collaborative and supportive of creativity and continuous learning.

Requirements

B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field.
At least 4 years of advanced experience with 3D CAD modeling software such as OnShape, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or Siemens NX, including small parts and large, complex workstation assemblies.
Proven experience designing multi-axis kinematic systems, selecting bearings, and managing cable-drive or low-friction transmission systems.
Demonstrated experience integrating load cells, six-axis force-torque sensors, or tactile arrays into mechanical assemblies to capture physical interactions.
Demonstrated understanding of ergonomic principles and experience designing hardware that interfaces physically with human users for long durations.
Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping, including advanced 3D printing, and traditional manufacturing processes such as machining and turning.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience with teleoperation and data-collection devices, such as surgical robotics consoles or master controllers for systems like Da Vinci, Monarch, or Ottava.
Experience implementing optics or cameras, including accommodating field-of-view estimates and choosing appropriate window materials.
Background in mechanical haptics, force-feedback systems, and admittance or impedance control hardware.
Experience designing flight simulators, driving rigs, or high-end VR hardware.
Familiarity with mechatronics and integrating smart servos into mechanical assemblies.
Experience designing human wearables such as watches, pedometers, or glasses.

Responsibilities

Design, rapidly prototype, and assemble handheld UMI frames, grippers, and mounting rigs that mimic humanoid hand mechanics and integrate load cells and force-torque sensors.
Design precise, vibration-resistant mounts for spatial-tracking sensors, GoPro cameras, embedded electronics, and force sensors in UMI devices.
Integrate high-resolution encoders and haptic-feedback motors into consoles for force-aware data collection.
Iterate rapidly on UMI devices, using in-house 3D printing and sourcing machined metal components, including CNC-machined and sheet-metal parts, for console structures.
Apply design-for-manufacturing (DFM), design-for-assembly (DFA), and GD&T concepts.
Define PCBA outlines and mounting points in collaboration with electrical engineering.
Select appropriate materials for equipment housings and consider shock, vibration, and outdoor water-resistance requirements.
Apply human-factors engineering to workstation seating and viewing angles for operators across the 5th to 95th percentile, supporting extended, fatigue-free data-collection sessions.
Design hardware for ergonomic use with human hands and consider the human experience.
Perform basic thermal analysis for components mounted with the hardware.
Potentially architect and build a robot hand and human exoskeletons.