Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Prototyping

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer focused on Thermal Prototyping to rapidly design, prototype, and test thermal solutions that reduce noise and improve system reliability across our robot platform. This role is extremely hands-on: continuously building models, running benchtop experiments, instrumenting components, and helping push the boundaries of silent thermals for humanoid robotics.

Responsibilities:

• Design, build, and iterate 3D CAD models of thermal components: heat sinks, cold plates, airflow channels, fans, ducts, insulation, and passive/active cooling structures.
• Prototype concepts using FDM/SLA prints, CNC, sheet metal, foam, gasketing, and rapid thermal mockups.
• Run experiments that characterize noise sources and thermal loads across heat generating components including motors, gearboxes, electronics, and actuators.
• Evaluate fan characteristics and system impedance to optimize for minimal acoustic signature
• Instrument prototypes with thermocouples, microphones, accelerometers, airflow sensors, and DAQ hardware.
• Perform thermal bench testing, steady-state and transient measurements, and acoustic testing (near-field, far-field).
• Perform smoke tests, dye flow visualization, and IR thermography to understand heat flow and hotspot mechanisms.

Requirements:

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical, thermal, or electromechanical hardware development.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar.
• Strong 3D CAD proficiency
• Experience building prototypes and running hands-on thermal/acoustic tests.
• Familiarity with simulation tools (CFD, FEA, or equivalent).
• Comfort working with fans, heat sinks, interface materials, and general thermal componentry.
• Ability to design, execute, and document structured experiments.

Bonus Qualifications:

• Background in acoustic modeling, vibration damping, or noise isolation techniques.
• Experience with DAQs, IR cameras, sound chambers, hot-wire anemometers, or other instrumentation.
• CATIA V6 experience.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $120,000 - $180,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.