Lead Mechanical Engineer- Robotic Power Tools

About Origin

Origin (previously 10xConstruction) is building general-purpose autonomous robots for US construction to tackle rising costs, safety risks, and labour shortages. Our modular, multi-trade platform combines purpose-built hardware with real-time site intelligence to navigate complex environments and execute tasks with precision. Trained in high-fidelity simulation and already deployed on live sites, our robots deliver 5x faster execution, 250%+ margin expansion, and significant cost savings. Join India’s most talent-dense robotics team consisting of individuals from IITs, Stanford, UCLA, etc.

About the role

As the Lead Mechanical Engineer - Robotic Power Tools, you will own the end-to-end design and evolution of the robot's "hands and tools." This includes the mechanical adaptation of raw construction power tools into high-precision robotics, quick-change mechanisms, and the entire modular tooling ecosystem—such as pumps, vacuums, and material delivery systems. You will set the tooling architecture, design standards, and long-term roadmap, bridging the gap between heavy-duty construction equipment and autonomous operation.

Key Responsibilities

Tooling System Architecture & Leadership:

• Own the system-level mechanical architecture for robotic power tools and auxiliary platforms.
• Define modularity, standard electromechanical interfaces, and scalability across current and future tools.
• Act as the design authority for all tooling-related mechanical systems, ensuring a balance between high performance, ruggedness, and serviceability.
• Mentor junior engineers and establish rigorous design, review, and validation best practices.

Mechanism & Actuator Design:

• Lead the mechanical redesign and adaptation of off-the-shelf power tools (e.g., drywall sanders, spray guns, grinders) for robotic operation.
• Architect custom mounts, high-torque actuators, complex linkages, and compliance mechanisms to unlock tool functionality while protecting the robot arm from high-frequency vibrations.

Electromechanical Interfaces & Docking:

• Architect robust, repeatable modular docking stations, quick-change mechanisms, and kinematic alignment strategies.
• Lead the mechanical routing for cables, hoses, and pneumatics across the manipulator to the tools, ensuring minimal wear and zero snagging during complex trajectories.

Systems Engineering:

• Translate functional needs into clear mechanical requirements (payload, precision, lifecycle).
• Own the global DFMEA, risk assessments, and mitigation strategies for all tooling systems.
• Influence product decisions through strong technical judgment and data-backed recommendations.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical design for tooling, robotics, automation, or electromechanical systems.
• Proven experience designing modular tooling systems, quick-changers, or industrial mechanisms from scratch.
• Expert proficiency in CAD (Onshape or Equivalent) and advanced GD&T.
• Deep understanding of mechanism design, tolerance stack-ups, and structural analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional hardware projects and own technical decisions.

Preferred Experiences

• Experience in the power tools industry, construction tech, or heavy automation.
• Track record of taking complex mechanical hardware from prototype to mass production.
• Startup or early-stage product development experience.

• Gain experience in a dynamic startup environment at the forefront of robotics and AI innovation.
• Contribute to the development of technology that will revolutionize the construction industry.
• Work alongside a talented and passionate team committed to making a real-world impact.
• Learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable skills in robotics software engineering.
• Gain practical experience in a real-world engineering environment.
• Contribute to a project with the potential to make a significant impact on the construction industry.