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Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Prototyping

Figure
Posted onFeb 23, 2026
LocationSan Jose, California, United States (On-site)
Employment typeFull-time
Salary$120k – $180k Yearly

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer focused on Thermal Prototyping to rapidly design, prototype, and test thermal solutions that reduce noise and improve system reliability across our robot platform. This role is extremely hands-on: continuously building models, running benchtop experiments, instrumenting components, and helping push the boundaries of silent thermals for humanoid robotics.

Responsibilities:

  • Design, build, and iterate 3D CAD models of thermal components: heat sinks, cold plates, airflow channels, fans, ducts, insulation, and passive/active cooling structures.
  • Prototype concepts using FDM/SLA prints, CNC, sheet metal, foam, gasketing, and rapid thermal mockups.
  • Run experiments that characterize noise sources and thermal loads across heat generating components including motors, gearboxes, electronics, and actuators.
  • Evaluate fan characteristics and system impedance to optimize for minimal acoustic signature
  • Instrument prototypes with thermocouples, microphones, accelerometers, airflow sensors, and DAQ hardware.
  • Perform thermal bench testing, steady-state and transient measurements, and acoustic testing (near-field, far-field).
  • Perform smoke tests, dye flow visualization, and IR thermography to understand heat flow and hotspot mechanisms.

Requirements: 

  • 2+ years of experience in mechanical, thermal, or electromechanical hardware development.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, Mechatronics, or similar.
  • Strong 3D CAD proficiency
  • Experience building prototypes and running hands-on thermal/acoustic tests.
  • Familiarity with simulation tools (CFD, FEA, or equivalent).
  • Comfort working with fans, heat sinks, interface materials, and general thermal componentry.
  • Ability to design, execute, and document structured experiments.

Bonus Qualifications: 

  • Background in acoustic modeling, vibration damping, or noise isolation techniques.
  • Experience with DAQs, IR cameras, sound chambers, hot-wire anemometers, or other instrumentation.
  • CATIA V6 experience.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $120,000 - $180,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended. 

Figure is an AI robotics company developing general-purpose humanoid robots to address labor shortages and eliminate unsafe jobs.

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