About this role
The robotics team at OpenAI is building general-purpose robotics to push toward AGI-level intelligence in dynamic environments by integrating hardware and software across various robotic form factors. Team members work closely with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and test engineers to support the assembly, testing, and prototyping of custom electromechanical actuators for advanced robotic systems.
This role exists to turn engineering designs into validated hardware while improving build records, work instructions, and repeatable assembly practices. A successful candidate will handle precision electromechanical hardware hands-on, troubleshoot issues methodically, and maintain meticulous build and test records while adapting to changing prototype designs.
What you will do
- Assemble subassemblies and complete actuators from engineering drawings, bills of materials, and documented work instructions.
- Set up and run established mechanical and electrical tests while recording measurements and noting unexpected results.
- Support stator prototyping activities including winding, insulation, termination, bonding, inspection, and rework.
- Isolate problems through inspection and measurement, escalate deviations, and verify results after approved rework.
- Maintain accurate records of builds, tests, part traceability, inspection results, and rework history.
- Contribute bench observations to refine work instructions, fixtures, tooling, and parts organization as prototypes evolve.
- Follow safety, ESD, cleanliness, and quality standards while communicating operational blockers to the team.
What you need
- Must have hands-on experience building or testing mechanical, electrical, or electromechanical hardware in a lab, prototype shop, or manufacturing setting.
- Must be able to interpret drawings, bills of materials, wiring diagrams, and procedures while recognizing discrepancies between instructions and hardware.
- Must demonstrate careful use of hand tools, torque tools, and measurement equipment with consistent workmanship and attention to acceptance limits.
- Must know how to troubleshoot methodically, document observations, and pause work to seek engineering support when necessary.
- Must take ownership of build quality and records while remaining adaptable to shifting designs and priorities.
Nice to have
- Building or testing actuators, motors, robotics hardware, servos, or other precision electromechanical systems
- Motor manufacturing experience including stator assembly, winding, insulation, termination, bonding, impregnation, or inspection
- Experience with soldering, crimping, connector assembly, harness routing, adhesives, or fixture-assisted assembly
- Familiarity with mechanical or electrical test setup, instrument checks, measurement capture, and documenting unexpected results
- Use of shop tools for basic machining, prototype part modification, or hands-on rework
Benefits
- Offers Equity
Questions candidates ask
What is the remote work policy for this role?
This role is based in San Francisco, CA, and requires in-person presence 5 days a week.
What is the salary range for this position?
The position offers a salary range of $225K to $318K alongside equity offerings.
What will I actually be working on day-to-day?
Each opening focuses on actuator builds, testing, or stator prototyping, where you will assemble hardware from drawings, run mechanical and electrical tests, and troubleshoot issues alongside engineers.