Original job description
What To Expect
The Optimus actuator team is seeking a skilled and highly motivated Gearbox Manufacturing Engineer to own assembly process development, equipment/automation, and test systems for precision gearbox component manufacturing and assembly at scale. You will develop robust assembly processes and lead the full lifecycle of manufacturing, assembly, and test equipment - from specification and design through sourcing, installation, commissioning, and production qualification - while driving OEE, yield, cycle time, and scrap performance for complex geartrains used in humanoid robot actuators.
The ideal candidate thrives hands-on with assembly processes, production equipment, automation, and test systems; combines strong engineering fundamentals with practical line ownership; is highly organized with excellent attention to detail; and delivers continuous improvement under the pace of a high-growth robotics program.
What You'll Do
Develop gearbox assembly processes: sequence, press fits, bearing preload, torque/angle, grease fill, sealing, and stack-up controlDefine assembly process parameters, work instructions, PFMEA, control plans, and error-proofing for cells and linesQualify and stabilize assembly processes from prototype to production; drive capability (Cpk), first-article, and change controlSpecify, design/source, procure, install, commission, and qualify manufacturing, assembly, and test equipment/automationDevelop and qualify in-process and EOL test systems (methods, fixtures, stands, scripts, data logging)Define test acceptance criteria, GR&R, and design correlation; own production release of test recipesImprove OEE, yield, and cycle time via process/equipment upgrades, line balancing, and continuous improvementDevelop tooling/fixtures, and controls (PLCs, robotics, vision) for assembly and test of gearboxesTroubleshoot equipment, process, and test failures; develop spares strategy during line launchSupport capacity/CapEx; create process and equipment docs; train teams; own KPIs and safety/line integration
What You'll Bring
3+ years developing and launching precision assembly processes (sequence, parameters, PFMEA, control plans)3+ years specifying, procuring, installing, commissioning, and qualifying production equipment/automationHands-on test development: in-process and EOL stands, methods, fixtures, data capture, and production release3+ years in gearbox, actuator, or precision rotary product manufacturing and/or assemblyAbility to read complex drawings and develop detailed CAD for fixtures/tooling that will go in to making gearbox assemblies Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field preferred, or equivalent experienceBackground in gear/shaft/housing manufacturing processes (machining, finishing, grinding, heat-treat interface, metrology)Familiarity with test software/data systems (Matlab, LabVIEW, Python, PLC/HMI logging, MES/traceability) and GR&R/MSA preferredExperience with SPC, PFMEA, control plans, TPM/predictive maintenance, and lean manufacturing preferredFamiliarity with PLC programming, robot teach/programming, or vision system setup preferred
, Tesla