Chief Engineer, Hardware & Manufacturing

Job Description

Please note that this is an onsite position in Denver, CO in the Commerce City/RiNo area.

Company

At Prime Robotics, we’re building the future of warehouse automation — smart, integrated systems that combine robotics, software, and scalable infrastructure. Our robots don’t just move stuff — they optimize how warehouses work.

Position

The Chief Engineer, Hardware & Manufacturing serves as the technical authority for our warehouse robotic automation hardware systems and manufacturing processes. As an individual contributor role, you will be the hands-on technical leader establishing our US production capabilities while ensuring seamless knowledge transfer from our existing China operations. This position requires exceptional design expertise, direct manufacturing experience, and strong cross-cultural collaboration skills to work effectively with our established engineering team in China. The ideal candidate excels at influencing technical decisions across international boundaries without direct management authority.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership

Lead and collaborate on mechanical and electrical design efforts for next-generation robotic warehouse automation products

Work with the VP in China on technical standards, specifications, and documentation frameworks for hardware development

Serve as the ultimate technical authority for hardware quality, reliability, and performance

Collaborate with the Software team on integration requirements and product architecture

Drive innovation in product design while maintaining manufacturability (DFM) and cost targetsManufacturing Development

Develop comprehensive manufacturing processes and capabilities for US production facilities

Create detailed process documentation, work instructions, and quality control procedures

Implement testing methodologies and validation protocols for manufactured components

Optimize production workflows for efficiency, quality, and scalability

Establish supply chain relationships and component sourcing strategies for US operationsKnowledge Transfer & Global Collaboration

Design and execute structured knowledge transfer plans between China and US operations

Maintain effective technical partnerships with China engineering team without direct authority

Bridge technical communication between international teams to ensure consistency

Collaborate closely with VP Engineering China on global hardware initiatives and roadmaps

Develop strong working relationships built on mutual respect with China-based colleagues

Align US manufacturing capabilities with established China production methodologies

Travel to China facilities approximately 10% of time, particularly during initial setup phaseDemo Center & Customer Engagement

Design, set up, and manage our technical demonstration center for robotic automation systems

Serve as the primary technical presenter and expert during customer demonstrations

Create compelling demonstration scenarios that highlight product capabilities and advantages

Communicate complex technical information clearly to prospective customers with varying levels of technical knowledge

Gather customer feedback during demonstrations to inform product developmentInternship Program

Establish and oversee an internship program for aspiring Robotics Engineers

Develop structured learning paths and meaningful projects for interns

Mentor students and recent graduates in practical robotics engineering

Create opportunities for knowledge sharing between interns and the engineering team

Note: Although this position is currently an individual contributor, they may be responsible for staffing a team in the future.

RequirementsEducation & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or related technical field; Master's degree preferred

10+ years of progressive experience in hardware engineering

Proven experience with full product lifecycle development from concept to mass production

Experience establishing new manufacturing operations and production capabilitiesTechnical Skills

Expert knowledge of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes

Strong understanding of electrical systems, control systems, and embedded electronics

Proficiency with 3D CAD software, simulation tools, and product lifecycle management systems

Experience with robotics systems, automated production equipment, and robotics software platforms

Knowledge of quality control methodologies, regulatory compliance, and product certification

Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System), SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), motion control systems, and location engineering highly desired

Understanding of sensor integration, computer vision, and navigation systems for autonomous robotsLeadership & Communication

Exceptional ability to influence and guide without direct management authority

Strong skills in persuasion and consensus-building across cultural and geographic boundaries

Experience working effectively with international teams, particularly in China

Demonstrated ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics with diplomacy

Excellent presentation skills for technical demonstrations to customers and stakeholders

Ability to explain complex technical concepts to audiences of varying technical backgrounds

Experience presenting at industry conferences or publishing in technical forums preferred

Proven success in mentoring technical talent and developing educational programsAdditional Qualifications

Experience with warehouse automation, material handling systems, or industrial robotics preferred

Background in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) a plus

Demonstrated success in transferring manufacturing processes between geographic regions

Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies

Understanding of supply chain management and component sourcing strategies

Experience setting up and running technical demonstration environments

Record of thought leadership in robotics through presentations, publications, or patents

Ability to travel (15-30%), including potential international travel

Experience working in startup or high-growth technology companies a plus

Benefits

We value our team members and offer meaningful benefits:

Employer-subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to support your health and wellbeing

Dedicated vacation and sick leave that allows you to recharge and take care of yourself when needed

Invaluable hands-on experience with cutting-edge robotics technology that keeps your skills at the industry forefront

A collaborative culture where innovation thrives and your work has a real impact

The excitement of contributing to transformative technology in a fast-growing industry

Prime Robotics is proud to be an EEOE, M/F/D/V, and we are committed to diversity both in practice and spirit at the corporate level.

Prime Robotics participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee's Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.

We unfortunately cannot offer visa sponsorship for this position.

Full-time