Staff Mechanical Engineer, Matter… at Atomic Machines · Emeryville

Atomic Machines is ushering in a new era of micromanufacturing with its Matter Compiler™ technology platform. This platform enables new classes of micromachines to be designed and built by providing manufacturing processes and a materials library that are inaccessible to semiconductor manufacturing methods. It unlocks MEMS manufacturing not only for device classes that could never be produced by semiconductor methods, but also for entirely new categories. Furthermore, this digital platform is fully programmable in the way 3D printing is digital—but whereas 3D printing produces parts of a single material using a single process, the Matter Compiler™ technology platform is a multi-process, multi-material system: bits and raw materials go in, and complete, functional micromachines come out. The Atomic Machines team has also created an exciting first device—made possible only through the Matter Compiler™ technology platform—that we will be unveiling to the world soon.

Our offices are in Emeryville and Santa Clara, California.

About The Role:

We are seeking a seasoned Staff Mechanical Engineer to shape the foundation of our manufacturing platform. In this role, you will build groundbreaking systems, from the cutting edge of precision manipulation to the limit of fabrication process physics, for our novel Real-Time Micro-Manufacturing platform, the Matter Compiler.

This is an opportunity to build early in the product development cycle, collaborating with experts in mechanical design, electrical engineering, vision systems, robotics controls, and manufacturing engineering. You will be part of a fast-paced, hands-on environment, gaining deep multidisciplinary experience while directly influencing the future of scalable, high-precision automation.

The Mechanical Engineering team is at the forefront of designing and developing state-of-the-art hardware solutions through the entire lifecycle of product development – from conceptualization, harnessing process physics – to deployment, ensuring our innovative designs meet practical, real-world needs. Our engineers, guided by seasoned leadership, are deeply involved in all aspects of product development across a multitude of technical domains, through cross-functional collaboration, continuous refinement of our engineering processes, and upholding high standards in mechanical design to usher forward the next major step change in manufacturing.

If you're excited about pushing the boundaries of robotics and eager to have a high-impact role in an early-stage startup, we’d love to hear from you!

What You’ll Do:

• Own design, development, and qualification of complex systems automating process technologies such as physical vapor deposition, vacuum material handling, laser micromachining, electrochemical, fluid handling and dispense, bonding and joining, precision pick and place robotics, conveyance systems, mechanisms, end effectors, robotic axes, and systems that fit into a modular robotic manufacturing platform.
• Lead and work with a cross-functional team of highly experienced mechanical, software, electrical, process and materials engineers; managing projects, risks, and shaping our technology development path.
• Be an exemplary pillar for engineering excellence with concise documentation, analytical models, and strong engineering decision making to provide a detailed understanding of machine performance.
• Drive your work through rapid learning loops leveraging our in-house lab, fab, and machine shop.
• Work with experts from other teams to ensure systems are performant while being efficient, operable, and reliable; challenging assumptions and building strong professional relationships.

What You’ll Need:

• A first-principles mindset – you question assumptions, reframe problems from the ground up, and approach challenges with a foundational understanding rather than relying solely on precedent.
• 10+ years of experience designing complex multi-physics precision mechanical systems.
• Multiple successful product life cycles that you’ve stewarded from conception to successful market launch.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple disciplines and the ability to learn across the following: precision engineering, machine design, mechanisms, thermal, vacuum, fluids, optics, electromagnetics, sensors, and materials.
• Proficiency in systems engineering principles and their application.
• Experience leading cross functional technical teams toward successful product development in multiple technical domains.
• Exceptional command of engineering fundamentals, design principles, and detailed engineering definition.
• Infectious creativity and inventiveness, the ability to take and manage technical risks, and lead by influencing.
• Resourcefulness, flexibility, and adaptability, with no task too big or too small.
• A willingness to learn; a willingness to teach.
• A maker mentality with strong hands-on background in fabrication, machining, and prototyping with an intuitive understanding of material behavior and manufacturing processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication to clearly convey complex technical ideas and document designs effectively.
• Proactive and self-driven – a self-starter who takes initiative and follows through to completion.
• Minimum B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience).

Bonus Points For:

• Experience with high vacuum systems, laser and optical systems, and precision robotic systems.

The compensation for this position also includes equity and benefits. Salary Range

$180,000—$230,000 USD