Staff Electrical Engineer

About the role

Apptronik is constructing a future where humanoid robots work alongside humans to assist in diverse environments. The company is focused on developing sophisticated robotics solutions that enhance capabilities across multiple sectors. This specific position owns the electrical design and delivery for Apollo's end effector systems, a critical component of the robot's manipulation abilities. The hire will be responsible for transforming high-level concepts into robust, manufacturable electronic hardware. Success in this role requires a deep understanding of both theoretical principles and practical implementation challenges. You will own the full lifecycle of the electronics from initial schematic capture through to final production release. This position demands ownership of complex problem solving and the ability to drive projects forward with minimal ambiguity. You will act as a key technical authority for hardware decisions impacting the robot's performance and reliability.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect and validate multi-layer mixed signal PCBAs, guiding the design from initial concept through production release.
• Execute rapid electrical prototyping at both the system integration level and the individual board level to de-risk designs.
• Author detailed design artifacts including schematics, block diagrams, test plans, and assembly drawings to ensure clarity and compliance.
• Formulate and manage comprehensive validation and test plans, encompassing Design Validation Testing (DVT) and Production Validation Testing (PVT).
• Engineer specialized test fixtures and utilize advanced laboratory instrumentation such as high-bandwidth oscilloscopes and logic analyzers.
• Perform in-depth root cause analysis to resolve hardware and firmware related defects, implementing permanent corrective actions.
• Oversee electronic component lifecycle management using Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems and interface with hardware vendors.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders including technical leads, project managers, software, mechanical, and manufacturing engineering teams.
• Guide and mentor junior electrical engineers on best practices for hardware design, documentation standards, and troubleshooting methodologies.
• Define the component roadmap in collaboration with product managers and systems engineers to align with product strategy.
• Generate detailed work breakdowns and accurate time estimations to ensure realistic project planning and execution.
• Ensure compliance with electrical standards and safety regulations relevant to robotics applications in industrial settings.
• Support the development of manufacturing processes to ensure high-yield and efficient production scaling.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related technical discipline.
• Possess a minimum of 8 years of cumulative professional experience in Electrical Engineering roles.
• Demonstrate proven expertise with end effectors, prosthetics, wearables, motor drives, and associated firmware integration.
• Show advanced proficiency in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools, specifically Altium Designer, for PCB development.
• Have a track record of developing and maintaining robust CAD design rules and constraints.
• Bring experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems such as Arena or TeamCenter to manage design data.
• Show a history of successfully designing, prototyping, and debugging complex PCB and PCBA assemblies.
• Demonstrate competence working with electronics laboratory equipment and simulation software like LTSpice or PSpice.
• Exhibit strong verbal and written communication skills, particularly in creating detailed build assembly instructions and technical documentation.
• Apply excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities to diagnose and overcome hardware debugging challenges.
• Possess hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and validation using a wide array of laboratory instruments.
• Apply knowledge of three-phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) and Brushless DC (BLDC) motor control topologies.
• Implement advanced switching topologies utilizing FET and GaN technologies for power efficiency.
• Conduct thorough thermal analysis and design to ensure component reliability and performance.
• Develop power protection schemes to safeguard sensitive electronics from electrical faults.
• Integrate various sensors and interpret their data to inform robot behavior and safety.

Nice to have

• Experience with specific robotics communication protocols such as EtherCAT or CANopen is preferred.
• Familiarity with collaborative robot (cobot) safety standards and functional safety concepts is advantageous.
• Knowledge of high-speed digital design principles and signal integrity analysis is a plus.
• Understanding of cable and wiring harness design for complex robotic systems is beneficial.

Practical notes

• Travel up to 10% may be required, both within the United States and internationally for work-related duties.
• The position requires the ability to occasionally lift and move objects weighing up to 15 pounds.
• This is a direct hire position eligible for full benefits.