Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Prototyping

Company: Figure

Location: San Jose, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Mechanical Engineering / Thermal Engineering / Robotics Operations

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to the development of next-generation humanoid robots, focusing on the critical operational aspect of thermal management and acoustic performance.

• The position requires a hands-on approach to designing, prototyping, and testing innovative thermal solutions that directly impact system reliability and user experience.

• Success in this role means contributing to a quieter, more efficient, and more robust robot platform through rigorous engineering and rapid iteration.

• The Mechanical Engineer will play a key part in ensuring the operational integrity of complex electromechanical systems by addressing heat dissipation and noise generation challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a cutting-edge AI robotics company, emphasizing the operational challenges of integrating advanced thermal and acoustic engineering into humanoid robots. The focus on "Thermal Prototyping" and "rapidly design, prototype, and test" highlights the need for agile operations and iterative development cycles common in advanced R&D environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, build, and iterate 3D CAD models for thermal components such as heat sinks, cold plates, airflow channels, fans, ducts, insulation, and passive/active cooling structures.

• Rapidly prototype thermal concepts using FDM/SLA printing, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, foam, gasketing, and other quick mockup techniques.

• Conduct experimental characterization of noise sources and thermal loads across key heat-generating components, including motors, gearboxes, electronics, and actuators.

• Evaluate fan performance characteristics and system impedance to optimize for minimal acoustic signature and maximum cooling efficiency.

• Instrument prototypes with thermocouples, microphones, accelerometers, airflow sensors, and Data Acquisition (DAQ) hardware for comprehensive data collection.

• Perform detailed thermal bench testing, including steady-state and transient measurements, and acoustic testing (near-field and far-field).

• Utilize visualization techniques such as smoke tests, dye flow visualization, and IR thermography to understand heat flow patterns and identify hotspot mechanisms.

• Document experimental procedures, results, and design iterations to inform future development and knowledge sharing within the engineering operations team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on, experimental, and iterative approach to thermal and acoustic engineering. This implies a need for strong process management in experimentation, data collection, and rapid prototyping, all crucial elements of efficient engineering operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field. Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in mechanical, thermal, or electromechanical hardware development, with a strong emphasis on prototyping and testing. Required Skills:

• 3D CAD Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to create complex 3D models for mechanical components and assemblies.

• Thermal Prototyping: Proven experience in designing, building, and testing thermal management solutions.

• Experimental Design & Execution: Ability to design, execute, and document structured experiments to characterize thermal and acoustic performance.

• Instrumentation & Data Acquisition: Familiarity with using sensors (thermocouples, microphones, accelerometers, airflow sensors) and DAQ hardware for data collection.

• Hands-on Prototyping: Experience with various prototyping methods (3D printing, CNC, sheet metal) and assembly techniques.

• Thermal Component Knowledge: Comfort working with fans, heat sinks, thermal interface materials, and general cooling components.

Preferred Skills:

• Acoustic Analysis: Background in acoustic modeling, vibration damping, or noise isolation techniques.

• Advanced Instrumentation: Experience with specialized equipment such as IR cameras, sound chambers, hot-wire anemometers.

• Simulation Tools: Familiarity with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), or equivalent simulation software for thermal and acoustic analysis.

• CATIA V6 Experience: Proficiency with CATIA V6 for advanced CAD modeling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2+ years of experience" combined with a Bachelor's or Master's degree suggests a role that bridges early-career development with specialized technical expertise. The emphasis on hands-on testing and prototyping points towards an operational focus on translating designs into functional prototypes efficiently.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Prototyping Case Studies: Showcase examples of rapid prototyping projects, detailing the design-to-build process and the materials/techniques used.

• Thermal & Acoustic Test Results: Present data from thermal and acoustic experiments, including methodologies, raw data visualization, and analysis of findings. Highlight improvements achieved.

• CAD Model Examples: Include representative 3D CAD models of thermal components and assemblies designed, demonstrating proficiency and design for manufacturability/prototyping.

• Experimentation Documentation: Provide examples of structured experimental plans and detailed reports, showcasing the ability to clearly define objectives, methodologies, and conclusions.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate understanding of designing efficient workflows for prototyping and testing phases, from concept to validation.

• Iteration & Optimization: Showcase how you approach iterative design based on test feedback, focusing on optimizing thermal performance and reducing acoustic signatures.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Illustrate your process for collecting, analyzing, and reporting on thermal and acoustic data to drive design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a prototyping-focused role, the portfolio is critical. It should not just show finished products but the process of getting there. Demonstrating an ability to document and learn from rapid iterations is key to showing operational efficiency in R&D.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

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

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Stock Options/Equity: Potential for equity participation in a high-growth startup.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, conferences, and skill enhancement relevant to robotics and engineering.

• Relocation Assistance: May be available for qualified candidates.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week. Expected to be on-site in San Jose, CA. Flexibility may be available based on project needs and team agreements, but the hands-on nature of prototyping requires consistent on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a Mechanical Engineer with 2-5 years of experience in the San Jose, CA area, particularly within the high-demand field of robotics and AI. The "total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits" suggests equity or performance bonuses could be part of the offering.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Hardware Development, Advanced Manufacturing. Figure is at the forefront of developing general-purpose humanoid robots, aiming to address labor shortages and perform a wide array of tasks.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, greenhouse.io typically lists roles for companies ranging from early-stage startups to established enterprises. Given the advanced nature of humanoid robotics, Figure is likely a well-funded, rapidly growing company, possibly in the mid-stage startup to scale-up phase (e.g., 100-500 employees).

Founded: Figure was founded in 2022, indicating a relatively young company with a fast-paced, innovative, and likely agile operational culture.

Team Structure:

• The Mechanical Engineer will likely be part of a broader Mechanical Engineering team, potentially specializing in thermal, acoustic, or mechatronic systems.

• This team will collaborate closely with Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering (AI/ML, Controls), and Hardware Integration teams.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a Mechanical Engineering Manager or a Lead Engineer overseeing thermal/acoustic development. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Iteration: Emphasis on designing, building, and testing cycles, using empirical data to drive design improvements.

• Agile Prototyping: Rapid development and iteration of hardware concepts to accelerate learning and product development.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close working relationships between different engineering disciplines to ensure integrated system design and operational efficiency.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A culture that encourages tackling complex engineering challenges with innovative solutions.

Company Website: figure.com

📝 Enhancement Note: A young, AI-focused robotics company like Figure typically fosters a culture of rapid innovation, intense collaboration, and a high degree of ownership. The operational environment is likely dynamic, with a strong emphasis on execution and overcoming novel engineering challenges.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Mechanical Engineer, requiring 2+ years of experience. It’s an individual contributor role focused on specialized technical execution within the thermal and acoustic domain.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will likely report to a Mechanical Engineering Manager or a Senior/Lead Engineer who guides the technical direction of the thermal and acoustic development efforts. Collaboration will be cross-functional, with regular interaction with electrical, software, and integration teams.

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the operational performance, reliability, and user experience of Figure's humanoid robots. Effective thermal management and noise reduction are critical for robot longevity, efficiency, and acceptance in various environments (home, commercial).

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in thermal management, acoustics, and fluid dynamics within the context of robotics.

• Cross-Functional Skill Development: Gain exposure to electrical systems, control systems, and AI integration as they relate to thermal and acoustic design.

• Leadership Potential: As experience grows, opportunities may arise to lead specific thermal/acoustic projects, mentor junior engineers, or contribute to system-level design architecture.

• Industry Impact: Contribute to groundbreaking advancements in humanoid robotics, a rapidly evolving and high-impact field.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an engineer in a dynamic field like robotics, growth often comes from tackling complex, novel problems and gaining cross-disciplinary knowledge. The "2+ years" suggests a foundational skillset is present, with significant opportunity to expand it within Figure's specialized environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA. This is likely a modern R&D facility with dedicated lab spaces for prototyping, testing, and experimentation, alongside collaborative office areas.

Office Location(s): San Jose, California, United States. This location places the company within the heart of Silicon Valley, a hub for technology and innovation.

Workspace Context:

• Hands-on Lab Environment: Expect access to well-equipped labs with tools for 3D printing, CNC machining, fabrication, and comprehensive instrumentation for thermal and acoustic testing.

• Collaborative Spaces: Opportunities for brainstorming and problem-solving with a diverse team of engineers through open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and informal gathering spots.

• Cutting-Edge Technology: Exposure to advanced robotics hardware and software, providing a stimulating environment for engineers passionate about innovation.

• Focus on Execution: The environment likely prioritizes rapid iteration, testing, and getting functional prototypes built and evaluated.

Work Schedule: The role is on-site in San Jose, CA, with a standard full-time work schedule. Given the prototyping and experimental nature, some flexibility might be expected to meet project deadlines, but consistent on-site availability is crucial for hands-on work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "hands-on" work and "prototyping" strongly suggests a lab-centric environment. This means the workspace will be geared towards building and testing, requiring the engineer to be physically present and actively engaged with hardware.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with hiring managers and/or senior engineers. Expect questions on thermal principles, acoustics, CAD, experimental design, and problem-solving.

• Hands-on Assessment/Portfolio Review: Likely a dedicated session to review your portfolio, discuss specific projects, and potentially present case studies of your past work. This is where your prototyping and testing experience will be scrutinized.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with potential team members from mechanical, electrical, or software engineering to assess collaboration skills and technical alignment.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss company vision, role impact, and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Iterative Processes: Showcase how you went from initial concept to a refined prototype, detailing the challenges and solutions encountered during thermal and acoustic testing.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your designs (e.g., temperature reduction, noise level decrease, efficiency improvement).

• Showcase Prototyping Skills: Include examples of your ability to quickly build functional prototypes, detailing the methods and materials used.

• Demonstrate Experimental Rigor: Explain your approach to designing and executing experiments, including instrumentation setup, data collection, and analysis.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects related to thermal management, acoustics, fluid dynamics, and hardware prototyping, especially those involving fans, heat sinks, or noise reduction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Thermal/Acoustic Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to cooling challenges or noise issues in complex electromechanical systems.

• CAD Design Exercises: You might be asked to sketch or briefly describe how you would approach designing a specific thermal component.

• Experimental Design Questions: Prepare to outline how you would set up an experiment to measure a specific thermal or acoustic parameter.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "hands-on" and "prototyping" aspects mean the portfolio review will be critical. Candidates should be ready to dive deep into the how and why of their projects, not just the what. Demonstrating an efficient and effective prototyping process is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Proficiency in at least one major CAD package is essential. While CATIA V6 is a bonus, strong skills in SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, or similar are expected for design and modeling.

• Prototyping Equipment: Experience using FDM/SLA 3D printers, CNC machines, sheet metal fabrication tools, and general workshop equipment.

• Thermal Management Components: Familiarity with the application and selection of heat sinks, fans, thermal interface materials (TIMs), cold plates, and insulation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in tools for analyzing experimental data, such as Excel, MATLAB, Python (with libraries like NumPy, SciPy), or similar.

• Visualization Tools: Ability to create clear charts and graphs from data for reporting and presentation.

Simulation & Modeling:

• CFD/FEA Software (Preferred): Familiarity with tools like ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL Multiphysics, or equivalent for thermal and fluid flow simulations.

• Acoustic Simulation (Bonus): Experience with acoustic modeling or simulation tools.

Instrumentation & DAQ:

• Data Acquisition Systems (DAQ): Experience setting up and using DAQ hardware.

• Sensors: Familiarity with thermocouples, microphones, accelerometers, airflow sensors, and their integration.

• Visualization Tools: IR cameras for thermal imaging, potentially oscilloscopes or spectrum analyzers for acoustic/vibration data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes a blend of CAD design, hands-on fabrication, experimental testing, and data analysis. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with specific tools in each of these categories.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Exploration: A drive to push boundaries in robotics and thermal solutions, fostering an environment where new ideas are encouraged.

• Rigorous Execution: Commitment to thorough design, meticulous testing, and data-driven decision-making to ensure operational reliability.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing cross-functional partnerships to achieve complex engineering goals, with an emphasis on open communication.

• Hands-on Approach: A belief in the importance of direct involvement in building, testing, and troubleshooting hardware to accelerate learning and development.

• Problem-Solving Mindset: A proactive approach to identifying and solving challenging engineering problems that are inherent in developing novel robotics.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Work closely with Electrical, Software, and Controls engineers to ensure thermal and acoustic considerations are integrated early in the design process.

• Open Feedback Loops: Expect a culture where constructive feedback is shared freely and frequently among team members to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in design reviews, technical discussions, and documentation to disseminate findings and best practices across the engineering organization.

• Agile Project Management: Likely utilizes agile methodologies for managing prototyping cycles and project timelines, emphasizing adaptability and quick response to new information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values point to a high-performance, innovative culture typical of cutting-edge tech startups. The emphasis on "hands-on," "rigorous execution," and "collaboration" suggests a dynamic and demanding, yet rewarding, work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Novel Engineering Problems: Addressing unique thermal and acoustic challenges inherent in humanoid robot design, which may not have direct precedents.

• Rapid Iteration Demands: Balancing the need for thorough testing with the company's fast-paced development cycles and tight deadlines.

• Integration Complexity: Ensuring thermal and acoustic solutions integrate seamlessly with complex electromechanical and software systems.

• Miniaturization & Efficiency: Optimizing cooling and noise reduction within space and power constraints typical of robotic systems.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Cutting-Edge Robotics: Direct involvement in developing advanced humanoid robots, offering unparalleled learning in a pioneering field.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Opportunities to learn about AI, control systems, electrical engineering, and advanced manufacturing through collaboration.

• Advanced Thermal & Acoustic Techniques: Deepen expertise in specialized areas through hands-on application and problem-solving.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Potential to attend relevant industry events to stay abreast of advancements and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers and potentially mentoring junior team members as the role progresses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are significant but directly tied to the exciting nature of working in advanced robotics. Growth opportunities are abundant for those eager to learn and contribute to a groundbreaking technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to design a thermal solution for a component that generated significant heat within a confined space. What was your approach, and what were the results?" (Focus on your process, trade-offs, and data.)

• "How would you approach characterizing and reducing acoustic noise from a fan system in a robot? What instruments would you use, and what metrics would you track?" (Demonstrate understanding of acoustic measurement and mitigation strategies.)

• "Walk me through a complex prototyping project you led or significantly contributed to. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what did you learn?" (Prepare a specific case study from your portfolio.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in humanoid robotics and specifically at Figure?" (Show research into the company's mission and technology.)

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with cross-functional teams." (Align your response with Figure's likely culture of innovation and collaboration.)

• "How do you approach balancing speed of iteration with the need for rigorous testing and validation in a hardware development role?" (Address the company's need for both agility and reliability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project presented, clearly outline the problem, your proposed solution, the design/prototyping process, the experimental validation (including data), and the final outcome/lessons learned.

• Quantify Impact: Use charts, graphs, and specific numbers to demonstrate the effectiveness of your thermal and acoustic solutions. Show before-and-after comparisons where applicable.

• Highlight Prototyping Skills: Be ready to discuss the tools, materials, and techniques you used to bring your designs to life quickly and effectively.

• Explain Your Thought Process: Articulate why you made certain design choices or experimental decisions. This showcases your engineering acumen.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodology, challenges, and the specific data points you present.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's emphasis on hands-on prototyping and testing, interviewers will likely probe deeply into your practical experience. Be ready to discuss the "nitty-gritty" details of your projects and demonstrate a systematic approach to problem-solving and validation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided job link on greenhouse.io.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to prominently feature your experience in thermal design, acoustic analysis, rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC), experimental testing, and CAD proficiency. Select 1-2 key projects that best showcase your ability to design, build, and test thermal solutions.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights achievements related to process improvement, efficiency gains in prototyping, and quantified results from thermal/acoustic testing. Use keywords from the job description like "thermal prototyping," "acoustic testing," "3D CAD," "CFD/FEA," and "instrumentation."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare detailed explanations of your portfolio projects, focusing on your thought process, execution, and the impact of your work.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Figure's mission, technology, and recent news. Understand their goals in developing humanoid robots and how your role in thermal and acoustic prototyping contributes to their operational success.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.