Mechanical Engineering Intern

Skip to main content Mechanical Engineering Intern mundane Palo Alto, CA Apply Mechanical Engineering Intern mundane Palo Alto, CA 2 weeks ago Over 200 applicants See who mundane has hired for this role Apply Save Report this job Direct message the job poster from mundane Eoin O’Doherty Eoin O’Doherty VP Operations & Strategy at Mundane About UsMundane is a seed-stage robot learning startup founded by Stanford roboticists and builders. We’re deploying a fleet of humanoid robots to perform real-world tasks in commercial environments, collecting the data required to train the next generation of embodied intelligence.We move fast, prototype aggressively, test in the real world, and iterate based on reality—not simulations. You can read more at https://mundane.bot.About the RoleThis role is for a hands-on builder who loves turning CAD into real hardware and prototypes into working systems. You’ll work across mechanical design, electronics integration, and software bring-up to help us quickly design, test, and refine robot hardware. Expect a blend of CAD modeling, 3D printing, mechanical debugging, wiring harness work, and power tools.If you have a track record of building things outside of class (robotics club, battlebots, personal CAD projects, hobby CNC, DIY motion systems), you’ll fit right in.What You’ll DoOwn mechanical design of robotic subsystems: actuators, linkages, structures, enclosures, and motion systemsDrive DfX (Design for Manufacturing, Assembly, Reliability, Cost, Serviceability) across all designsPerform topology optimization and FEA (ANSYS) to reduce weight, improve stiffness, and optimize performanceDevelop and maintain production-quality CAD (SolidWorks) for complex assemblies and mechanismsDesign for high-cycle, high-load dynamic systems with tight tolerances and reliability requirementsLead design reviews, tolerance stack-ups, and failure mode analysis (FMEA)Work with vendors and internal teams to transition designs from prototype to scalable productionDebug and iterate on hardware through hands-on testing, root cause analysis, and redesignCollaborate cross-functionally with controls, electronics, and robotics teams to integrate full systemsDefine and build test rigs and validation plans for moving mechanical systemsQualificationsPursuing a degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or related fields.Strong CAD proficiency (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Onshape). You’ve designed and built things, not just done coursework.Experience with prototyping tools: 3D printers, hand tools, soldering, basic machining.Hands-on mentality: you enjoy building, breaking, fixing, and improving hardware in real environments.Bonus ExperienceExperience with ANSYS (or similar) for FEA and topology optimizationDeep understanding of DfX principles (DFM, DFA, DFR, etc.)Proven track record designing moving mechanical systems (linkages, gear trains, actuators, transmissions)Experience taking designs from concept → prototype → productionStrong fundamentals in materials, tolerancing (GD&T), and manufacturing processesExperience designing robotic arms, humanoids, or dynamic motion systemsKnowledge of actuator design (motors, gearboxes, harmonic drives, belt systems)Experience with fatigue analysis, vibration, and dynamic loadingFamiliarity with...