Summary

Headquartered in sunny Los Angeles, GrayMatter Robotics is a well-capitalized AI robotics startup serving the manufacturing industry. We empower shop floor workers with our smart robots that assist with tedious and ergonomically challenging tasks, specifically in automated surface finishing. Our proprietary GMR-AI™ software is integrated with state-of-the-art industrial robots, sensors, and tools to create application-specific turnkey solutions for customers through a Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) model.

GrayMatter Robotics is seeking a Staff Mechatronics Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced robotic systems for manufacturing automation. This role is intended for a senior technical leader who operates with high autonomy, influences system architecture, and mentors engineers while remaining hands-on.

Strong controls and mechatronics foundation with hands-on experience in PID tuning, motor and drive control, and frequency response analysis, combined with practical debugging using lab instruments and PLC-based industrial automation hardware (PLCs, safety modules, sensors, actuators). Proficient in embedded C/C++ and Python for low-level control and integration, and experienced in full-system robotic design spanning electrical, mechanical, and controls domains. Designs and sources components, creates CAD and technical drawings, and rapidly prototypes using 3D printing and basic shop tools with a strong DFM mindset. Applies working knowledge of power electronics and common hardware certification standards, and leads thorough testing, validation, and troubleshooting of automation systems before deployment. Collaborates cross-functionally to translate customer needs into buildable solutions, standardizes PLC architectures within robotic cells, drives continuous product and EOAT improvements, and mentors junior engineers while remaining deeply hands-on in complex system integration.

Role & Responsibilities

• Lead system-level design and architecture of robotic and automation solutions.

• Own complex mechatronic subsystems across mechanical, electrical, and controls domains.

• Serve as a technical authority on robotic cell design, integration, and performance.

• Drive requirements definition, trade studies, and design reviews.

• Partner with software, controls, manufacturing, and field teams to deliver robust systems.

• Mentor senior and mid-level engineers; raise overall technical bar.

• Support customer-facing technical discussions and solution validation when needed.

• Identify technical risks early and guide mitigation strategies

• Influence long-term product and platform roadmap decisions.
  

Required Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in mechatronics, robotics, or automation engineering.

• Strong background in industrial robotics, automation systems, or complex machinery.

• Demonstrated ownership of system-level designs through deployment.

• Deep understanding of electromechanical systems and controls integration.

• Experience leading technical projects or acting as a technical lead.

• Ability to work cross-functionally and make architecture-level decisions.

• Comfort operating in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotic cell design in manufacturing environments.

• Hands-on exposure to PLCs, sensors, actuators, and industrial safety systems.

• Prior experience mentoring or technically leading teams.

• Customer-facing engineering or field deployment experience.

GrayMatter Robotics provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage and embrace applicants of all backgrounds to apply!

GrayMatter Robotics is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities. If you believe you require accommodations during the recruiting process, please contact accommodations@graymatter-robotics.com to submit your request.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Depending on the position and if listed, compensation may include the base salary range, bonus or commission, and equity. We also provide comprehensive benefits and perks which include but are not limited to medical, dental, vision, unlimited PTO, 401(k) plan + employer match, regular offsite events, a discretionary fund for enhancing productivity and so much more! The range listed on job postings reflect the minimum and maximum new hire salary across levels in Los Angeles, CA.