Robotics Prototyping Engineer (Special Projects)
Santa Clara, CA, USA
USD 150,400-277,600 / year + Equity
Posted on Jul 18, 2026
We are seeking a hands-on prototyping engineer to build, integrate, and manage the robotic and mechatronic systems at the heart of our research lab. This is a maker's role: you'll turn ideas into working hardware, stand up robot platforms, design and fabricate custom mechanisms and electronics, and write the low-level software that ties it all together. Unlike a traditional AI research role, this position lives at the intersection of mechanical design, electronics, controls, and software — with room to contribute to algorithmic and research work as systems mature. You will work alongside world-class researchers and engineers, contributing to technologies that power the Apple ecosystem and, where appropriate, publishing in top-tier scientific venues. If you love building things — turning ideas into hardware, bringing up new robots, and writing the software that makes them move — we would love to hear from you!
We are a team of best-in-the-world research scientists and engineers with deep experience in computer vision, machine learning, robotics, computer graphics, and related areas. We work on exciting new technologies that bring joy to millions of people. In our daily work, the team stays innovative, productive, and fun by sharing some key values: Passion for the mission: We're here to make something extraordinary. We seek whatever work is right and strive for the best possible results. Modesty: The right answer is more significant than being right. We search for solutions as a team and value clear-eyed feedback. Lean habits: You can't grow without limits. Time constraints and big goals encourage us to sharpen our focus and learn to make phenomenal decisions.
- Develop and evaluate novel robotic and mechatronic technologies, taking concepts from idea to working prototype.
- Design, prototype, and validate sensing, actuation, and feedback systems.
- Stand up and maintain robot platforms — assembly, calibration, wiring, and bring-up of complete systems.
- Design and fabricate mechanical components using 3D CAD and rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC, etc.).
- Develop electronics and embedded systems, including PCB design, sensor integration, and low-level firmware.
- Write low-level and systems software to integrate hardware, controls, and higher-level applications into functional prototypes.
- Develop algorithms for estimation, control, and systems optimization.
- Create experimental platforms, test methods, and performance benchmarks.
- Build simulation models to support system design and validation.
- Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines to advance human-machine interaction capabilities.
- Iterate quickly based on feedback, technical constraints, and functional requirements.
- Document methodologies and technical developments for internal knowledge sharing and, where appropriate, external publication.
- Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field — or equivalent hands-on experience.
- Demonstrated prototyping ability: a track record of building functional hardware systems end to end.
- Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and fabrication (3D printing, CNC machining, etc.).
- Experience setting up and integrating robotic systems — mechanical assembly, actuation, and sensing.
- Proficiency with electronics, including PCB design, embedded systems, and sensor integration.
- Strong programming skills in Python and C++, including low-level/embedded and systems software.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to iterate quickly based on feedback and technical constraints.
- Experience in hardware/software co-design.
- Experience managing or operating a lab, hardware inventory, or shared experimental facilities.
- Experience developing algorithms for estimation, control, or sensor fusion.
- Familiarity with simulation tools for system design and validation.
- Experience with various sensor modalities (LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, force/torque, etc.).
- Familiarity with reinforcement learning, planning algorithms, autonomous navigation, or full-body motion control.
- Interest in contributing to research and publishing in top-tier scientific venues.