Senior Hardware EngineerAmazon is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer to lead the evaluation, customization, and deployment of automated mechanical systems that support our advanced robotics programs. This role serves as the technical lead for mechanical hardware strategy, vendor engagement, system integration, and operational readiness across a range of automation platforms. You will partner with internal engineering teams and external vendors to deliver robust, production-ready mechanical solutions for complex automation challenges.
This role requires deep experience with automated assembly systems, robotic platforms, material handling, and safety systems, along with the ability to think holistically—connecting vendor evaluation, mechanical design, and system-level performance. You will act as a technical leader within the broader engineering organization, driving alignment and execution across design, quality, and manufacturing domains.Key job responsibilities include:Own end-to-end evaluation and selection of commercially available automation solutions, critically assessing designs against internal use cases and driving informed make-versus-buy decisionsWork directly with vendors to customize mechanical and automation solutions to address varied and demanding requirements, leading technical evaluation, qualification, and deploymentDeep dive mechanical failures during pilots and early deployments to identify root causes, critically evaluate vendor assertions, and drive corrective actionsIndependently design, develop, and validate mechanical hardware for automated systems including workstations, robotic arms, safety systems, material handling, and part load/unload mechanismsDevelop and deliver detailed CAD models, engineering drawings, trade studies, and technical documentation using SolidWorks or NXDefine fixturing, tooling, and workholding strategies to ensure repeatability, precision, and efficient integration across automation platformsBuild and manage relationships with automation OEMs, system integrators, and component suppliers, leading technical discussions and driving accountability for deliverablesCollaborate cross-functionally with systems engineers, product managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure cohesive planning, integration, and execution of automated solutionsEstablish and maintain comprehensive documentation including design reviews, failure analyses, process validation records, and standard operating proceduresContribute to the growth of the engineering team by mentoring peers, training junior engineers, and participating in design reviews and hiring activitiesEvaluate emerging automation technologies, materials, and techniques and recommend strategic investments to enhance capabilitiesBasic qualifications include:Experience collaborating with cross-functional teamsBachelor's degree in robotics, mechanical/mechatronics engineering, systems engineering or related field7+ years of experience in mechanical hardware design, development, and validation for automated or robotic systemsProven ability to independently design and deliver mechanical hardware from concept through production with limited guidanceStrong CAD proficiency (SolidWorks or NX) with experience producing detailed drawings, assemblies, and technical documentationExperience evaluating vendor designs and making informed make-versus-buy trade-off decisionsDemonstrated ability to perform root cause analysis on mechanical failures and drive corrective actionsExperience working with external vendors and system integrators to deliver customized technical solutionsProficiency in data-driven decision making, including use of trade studies, structured problem solving, and technical risk assessmentPreferred qualifications include:Master's degree or above in robotics, mechanical/mechatronics engineering, systems engineering or related fieldExperience with high-volume manufacturing line design and deploymentKnowledge of robotic safety standards (e.g., ISO 10218, ANSI/RIA 15.06) and material handling standardsExperience working with traditional robotic systems and custom automation solutions such as gantries, pick-and-place robots, and vision systemsUnderstanding of industrial control systems and PLC/HMI programming capabilitiesExperience designing and scaling automated systems in high-throughput production environmentsFamiliarity with system architecture trade-offs, standardization strategies, and lifecycle managementExperience driving continuous improvement initiatives with measurable impact on system performance and reliabilityAbility to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable plans for diverse stakeholdersAmazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers.The base salary range for this position is listed below.
Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave.
Learn more about our benefits at MA, N.Reading - 137,300.00 - 185,700.00 USD annually USA, WA, Seattle - 137,300.00 - 185,700.00 USD annually