Hardware Engineering Manager

About this role:

Pickle Robot Company is seeking a visionary and technically adept Mechatronics Engineering Manager to lead the hardware side of our Technology Development team. In this critical role, you will build and guide a small, agile team of mechanical, electrical, and firmware engineers, focusing on the research and exploration of emerging technologies. Your primary objective will be to identify, evaluate, and understand the technical benefits and strategic advantages that various cutting-edge technologies can offer our future product development, well before they enter the product development lifecycle. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the technological foundation of our next-generation robotic solutions and influence the future of warehouse automation.

• Lead, mentor, and grow a small, high-performing team of mechanical, electrical, and firmware engineers dedicated to technology scouting and detailed exploration.
• Drive rapid hands-on experimentation, quick-turn prototyping, and proof-of-concept development to quickly evaluate the capabilities and limitations of new mechatronic components, systems, and methodologies - giving clarity on the trade space.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with product, research, and engineering teams to communicate findings, assess potential applications, and influence future product strategies.
• Develop robust frameworks and methodologies for technical assessment, competitive analysis, and benefit quantification of new technologies.
• Oversee the creation of detailed technical reports and presentations summarizing findings, recommendations, and strategic implications for senior leadership.
• Foster a culture of curiosity, innovation, and continuous learning within the technology development team.

• An accomplished Mechatronics Engineer with 7+ years of experience, including at least 3 years in a technical leadership or management role, with a strong emphasis on late-stage research, technology development, or advanced R&D.
• Proven ability to manage and inspire a diverse technical team encompassing mechanical, electrical, and firmware disciplines.
• Deep understanding of the interdependencies between hardware and software, with hands-on experience in prototyping and integrating complex mechatronic systems.
• Expertise in evaluating and benchmarking new technologies, components, and design approaches.
• Highly analytical, with a strong ability to translate complex technical information into clear, actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
• A proactive and independent problem-solver who thrives in an ambiguous, fast-paced, and exploratory environment.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, capable of articulating technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Passionate about staying at the forefront of technological advancements and identifying disruptive innovations.
• Familiarity with various CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Onshape), electronics design tools (e.g., Altium), and firmware development environments.
• Willing to work from our Charlestown, MA office at least 3 days a week.

About Pickle Robot

Pickle Robot is a pioneer in Physical AI for supply chain applications. Today Pickle robots autonomously unload trucks, trailers, and import containers at human-scale or better performance. The alternative is manual work that is difficult, dirty, sometimes dangerous, and increasingly hard to staff at distribution centers around the globe. Pickle Robot is laser focused on automating truck unloading using generative AI, machine learning, computer vision, advanced sensors, and industrial robotics to deliver engineered products customers rely on. Pickle Robot Unload Systems work alongside people on loading docks to make the work safer, faster, and more efficient. Pickle robots are physical AI that unload trucks.

Pickle provides best-in-class benefits including health, dental, & vision insurance; unlimited vacation, along with all federal and state holidays; 401K contributions of 5% your salary, travel supplies, and other items to make your working life more fun, comfortable, and productive.