Senior Director, Hardware Engineering - Robotic Cell

Symbotic - Boston, MA

Full-time - Senior

Boston, MA

Warehousing and Storage

About the position

As the Senior Director of Hardware Engineering at Symbotic, you will play a pivotal role in leading the development of innovative robotic solutions that redefine warehouse automation. This position requires a deep understanding of robotics, automation, mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering. You will be at the forefront of technological innovation, guiding a dynamic team dedicated to creating cutting-edge hardware solutions that enhance efficiency and flexibility in supply chain operations. Your leadership will ensure that our robotic systems are not only mechanically and electrically sound but also capable of thriving in real-world industrial environments. You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for the hardware engineering department, aligning it with the company's vision and goals, and driving key performance indicators across the team. In this role, you will dive deep into complex hardware challenges, providing hands-on technical guidance and solutions. You will coach and mentor your team, fostering a culture of creativity and discipline. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring that our robotic designs are backed by meticulous engineering practices, rigorous testing, and iterative refinement. You will also be responsible for integrating an industrial perspective into our designs, focusing on critical components such as PLCs, motor systems, drives, and conveyance mechanisms. Collaboration will be key, as you will work closely with software teams to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software functionalities. Additionally, you will engage with stakeholders across various departments and external partners to align on project objectives and timelines. Continuous learning will be essential, as you stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in robotics and automation, driving continuous improvement and cost reductions within the team.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on technical leadership and guidance on complex hardware challenges.
• Coach, mentor, and develop the hardware engineering team to ensure creativity and discipline in projects.
• Ensure robotic solutions are mechanically and electrically sound through rigorous design and testing.
• Integrate industrial perspectives into designs, focusing on PLCs, motor systems, drives, and conveyance mechanisms.
• Foster collaboration between hardware and software teams for seamless integration of functionalities.
• Set strategic direction for the hardware engineering department, aligning with company goals.
• Engage with stakeholders to align on project objectives, deliverables, and timelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure integration and functionality of systems.
• Stay updated with trends and best practices in robotics and automation for continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in hardware engineering with a focus on automation, robotics, or automotive.
• Proven experience in designing and scaling industrial automation and robotic solutions.
• Hands-on expertise in mechanical, electrical, and industrial design, including controllers, motor systems, and sensors.
• Strong understanding of design principles, product life management, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience leading distributed teams and external design partners.
• Deep understanding of robotics from both mechanical and software perspectives.
• Familiarity with software integration in robotic systems.
• Demonstrated leadership with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills for collaboration across complex organizational structures.
• Certifications in industrial systems, PLC programming, and conveyance systems are desirable.

Nice-to-haves

• Certifications or additional training in industrial systems, PLC programming, and conveyance systems.