Apptronik is building robots for the real world to improve human quality of life and to help solve the ever-increasing labor shortage problem. Our team has been building some of the most advanced robots on the planet for years, dating back to the DARPA Robotics Challenge. We apply our expertise across the full robotics stack to some of the most important and impactful problems our society faces, and expect our products and technology to change the world for the better. We value passion, creativity, and collaboration to help us overcome existing technological barriers in the industry to create truly innovative products.
You will join a team developing state-of-the-art general-purpose robots designed to operate in human spaces and with human tools. It is designed to work alongside humans, mobilize to human spaces, and manipulate the world around it.
JOB SUMMARY
We're looking for an experienced Senior Wire Harness Engineer to drive our electrical system strategy and mechanical routing for wiring harnesses, and new product introduction (NPI). This role involves developing technical solutions throughout the product life cycle, including design, prototyping, manufacturing, integration, and testing of round wire and flex circuit harness systems. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to meet demanding technical, quality, and performance objectives. If you have a strong background in harness engineering and enjoy solving complex technical challenges, we encourage you to apply.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Own the entire cable harness mechanical workflow from taking in electrical harness specifications to 3D routing in Mechanical CAD and 2D formboard drawing creation for production.
- Design and develop wire harness systems and components using advanced CAD tools (e.g., Creo, CATIA, Altium, Rapid Harness, Zuken E3).
- Work with Electrical Engineering to define harness specifications, harness construction, and connector specifications.
- Perform connector selection, backshell design, overmolding design, and mechanical packaging for harnesses in complex systems.
- Define and document system requirements, block diagrams, mechanical outlines, construction details, and electrical layouts.
- Collaborate with stakeholders across systems, chassis, actuation, electrical engineering, and manufacturing teams to optimize designs for accessibility and assembly (DFM/DFA).
- Own relationship with suppliers and contract manufacturers to ensure timely delivery, quality, and cost-effectiveness of harness materials and components.
- Conduct design reviews, DFMEAs, and risk analysis to identify and mitigate potential issues in system performance and reliability.
- Support prototype builds, system integration, debugging, and testing processes to ensure functionality, durability, and compliance with industry standards.
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to harness design, manufacturing, and integration.
- Harness functional testing and creation of test protocols and procedures.
SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Proficiency in advanced CAD and harness design tools such as Creo, CATIA, NX, Altium, Rapid Harness, Zuken E3, Capital Harness Designer.
- Strong understanding of wiring harness standards, such as IPC.
- Knowledge of communication cabling protocols (e.g., CAN, CAN-FD, LIN, Automotive Ethernet, GMSL) and low-voltage power systems.
- Familiarity with EMI shielding, signal integrity, and thermal management principles in harness design.
- Experience with connector selection, backshells, overmolding, cable assembly and management.
- Experience with high flex cabling and routing best practices around moving joints
- Strong project management skills with the ability to meet cost, schedule, and quality targets.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for documentation, team collaboration, and stakeholder interaction.
- Documentation experience - will be expected to develop detailed build assembly instructions and diagrams
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering or equivalent industry experience.
- At least 5 years of experience in harness design
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
- Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
- Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
- Hearing and speech to communicate
*This is a direct hire. Please, no outside Agency solicitations.
Apptronik provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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Apptronik Austin, Texas, USA Office
We're based in North Austin near The Domain, a lively, outdoor shopping area full of shops and restaurants.
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