Mechanical Engineer, Softgoods/Plastics

About the role

Figure is building advanced humanoid robots and is looking for a Mechanical Engineer with specialized experience in softgoods and plastics. This role focuses on the design, prototyping, and manufacturing of flexible and rigid polymer components that form critical parts of the robot system. The engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to translate mechanical concepts into producible parts that meet performance and durability standards. You will contribute directly to the development of next-generation robotic platforms by ensuring that every softgoods and plastic component is engineered for reliability, precision, and long-term use in demanding operational environments that value innovation.

Key facts

What you'll do

Design and iterate on softgoods components such as seals, gaskets, and flexible housings for robotic systems

Develop plastic parts using injection molding and other manufacturing processes suitable for production volumes

Create detailed CAD models and technical drawings for softgoods and plastic parts

Work with material selection teams to choose appropriate polymers and elastomers for each application

Conduct prototype testing and analyze failure modes to improve part performance and longevity

Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are compatible with existing production workflows

Support the integration of softgoods and plastic components into larger mechanical assemblies

Evaluate supplier capabilities and manage relationships with external vendors for custom parts

Document design decisions and maintain a clear record of specifications and revision history

Participate in design reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers on mechanical designs

Coordinate with suppliers to resolve production issues and improve the quality of incoming plastic and softgoods materials

Lead design for manufacturing reviews to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising part functionality or robot performance

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field from an accredited four-year institution

Demonstrated experience designing softgoods components including seals, boots, flexible enclosures, and other polymer-based parts

Proficiency with CAD software commonly used in mechanical design workflows and version control systems

Understanding of plastic manufacturing processes such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming techniques

Familiarity with elastomer and polymer material properties and their behavior under various stress conditions

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and tolerances accurately for production purposes

Strong written and verbal communication skills for coordinating effectively with cross-functional team members

Experience working in a fast-paced engineering environment with multiple concurrent projects and competing priorities

Solid understanding of mechanical tolerances, fits, and clearances as they apply to both rigid and flexible parts

Willingness to travel occasionally to supplier facilities or other company locations for project support and collaboration

Nice to have

Prior experience in robotics or automation industries where precision mechanical parts are critical

Knowledge of finite element analysis or other simulation tools for predicting part performance

Experience with rapid prototyping methods including 3D printing for soft materials

Familiarity with regulatory standards that apply to mechanical components in consumer or industrial products

Experience with statistical process control and quality improvement methodologies in a manufacturing setting

Background in sustainability practices and environmentally responsible material selection for mechanical components

Skills & tools

CAD modeling software for creating detailed mechanical designs and assemblies

Prototyping equipment and techniques for building and testing physical parts

Material testing methods for evaluating polymer and elastomer performance

Manufacturing process knowledge including molding and forming techniques

Technical writing and documentation standards for engineering records

Project management basics for tracking design tasks and milestones

Version control systems for managing design files and tracking changes across engineering teams

Spreadsheet and data analysis tools for tracking design metrics and manufacturing KPIs

Practical notes

This role is based in San Jose, CA and requires regular on-site presence at the company's office during standard business hours

Candidates should expect to work within standard business hours with occasional overtime during product development cycles

The hiring process may include technical interviews, design exercises, and a review of past engineering projects

Figure is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to background or identity