Robotics HW Engineer

Multiply Labs•San Francisco, CA

About The Position

Multiply Labs is a robotics company focused on automating the manufacturing of advanced biologics, including gene and cell therapies and antibodies. Its technology combines robotic orchestration, high-precision automation, cloud-integrated hardware and software, dexterous manipulation, and imitation learning to help biopharma companies scale production without redesigning their science. As a Robotics HW Engineer, you will design hardware and control solutions for biological process automation challenges that have not previously been solved for robotic operation. The work includes designing space-efficient, cleanable structures; thermal management and fluid-transfer systems; precision alignment and retention features; reusable robotic gripping features and robot end-of-arm tooling (EOAT); custom assemblies incorporating commercial components; process-variable sensing; and motion controls. You will contribute to making designs functional and visually refined. The role is hands-on and collaborative. Regular work includes CAD, prototype fabrication and assembly, performance testing, evaluating commercial components, design reviews, and brainstorming. As designs mature, you will provide technical support and documentation for transfer to manufacturing. The position is based at the company's San Francisco headquarters, works primarily in a manufacturing area adjacent to a lab, and requires up to 10–15% domestic and European travel.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Experience designing and building medical equipment or industrial machinery.
Working knowledge of GD&T standards.
2–7+ years of experience in mechanical design engineering.
Ability to reach, stoop, crouch, and kneel, including entering and working inside a robotic cluster for maintenance, cleaning, or intervention.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and up to 5 lbs overhead.
Manual dexterity to use hand tools, manage cabling, and perform mechanical adjustments.
Ability to work primarily in a manufacturing area adjacent to a lab, follow strict safety protocols such as BSL-2, and maintain situational awareness.
Ability to use required PPE, including lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves, for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

Experience with GMPc, FDA- and/or EMA-regulated industries.
Proficiency with Onshape.
Hands-on experience with machine shop equipment.
Experience designing robot EOATs or robotic work cells.
Experience leading meetings, managing project tasks, and developing project timelines.
Proficiency with 3D CAD software, including modeling and creating detailed drawings.
Familiarity with design analysis, including deflections, tolerance stack-ups, load capacity, and material compatibility.
Working knowledge of mechanical components, common engineering metals and plastics, fasteners, joining methods, part fabrication methods, and finishing operations.
Familiarity with precision part alignment and locating techniques.
Ability to work through basic thermal-fluid design concepts and create test setups to verify design aspects.
Ability to safely use hand tools, small power tools, and common engineering measurement instruments.
Working knowledge of rapid prototyping equipment, including SLA/FDM 3D printers and laser cutters.

Responsibilities

Design hardware and controls solutions for biological process automation and robotic operation.
Design mechanical structures and assemblies, including cleanable, space-efficient structures, thermal management, fluid transfer, precision alignment and retention, and reusable gripping features.
Develop novel robot end-of-arm tools and integrate commercial components into custom assemblies.
Address process-variable sensing and motion-control needs.
Perform CAD work, fabricate and assemble prototypes, and test design performance.
Evaluate commercial component options.
Participate in design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and other team activities.
Provide technical support and documentation to assist with design transfer to manufacturing.
Follow safety protocols while working in a manufacturing area adjacent to a lab and while servicing equipment.
Travel domestically and in Europe, up to 10–15%.