YA
Mechatronics Research Engineer
Accepting applicationsYKK AP Technologies Lab (NA) Inc. · Pittsburgh, PA
Full-Time Entry AIC++Machine LearningPythonai
Posted
1d ago
Category
Test
Experience
Entry
Country
United States
Company Description YKK AP Technologies Lab (NA) Inc. develops advanced digital technologies for the construction products and building materials industry. The team focuses on digitizing the entire product lifecycle, from early design and construction to final installation. By integrating IoT devices, AI-driven analysis, and remote-control networks, the company has pioneered a "Virtual Factory" initiative that uses Digital Twin environments for virtual simulations and optimization. These innovations significantly enhance supply chain visibility and production efficiency. The organization is also committed to developing globally minded, digital-ready talent and exploring next-generation materials.
Summary:
We are seeking a multidisciplinary Mechatronics Research Engineer to join our team. This role sits at the intersection of mechanical design, electronic systems, and advanced control theory. Your primary mission will be to bridge the gap between traditional industrial robotics and the next generation of AI-driven automation. You will be responsible for designing, prototyping, and testing integrated systems where hardware meets high-level intelligence. If you enjoy getting your hands dirty with hardware while simultaneously writing code to optimize robotic behavior through machine learning, this is your sandbox. You will work on "bleeding-edge" projects that move beyond theoretical research into real-world industrial impact. We offer a collaborative environment where fail-fast prototyping is encouraged.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Integrated System Design: Design and develop mechatronic systems that seamlessly integrate sensors, actuators, and mechanical structures for industrial applications.
AI & Controls Integration: Assist in the research and implementation of AI/Machine Learning algorithms (e.g., Reinforcement Learning, Computer Vision) onto industrial robotic controllers to improve path planning, grasping, and error recovery.
Prototyping & Testing: Build and iterate on functional prototypes, utilizing rapid prototyping tools, PCB design, and CNC/3D printing.
Control Theory Application: Develop and tune advanced control loops (PID, MPC, etc.) to ensure precision and stability in high-speed robotic operations.
Embedded Systems Programming: Write robust, real-time code for microcontrollers and industrial PCs (PLC, ROS/ROS2, Linux).
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with software engineers and mechanical designers to ensure hardware limitations are accounted for in AI model development.
Documentation & Patent Support: Document research findings, contribute to technical white papers, and assist in the intellectual property filing process.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This job has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Required Qualification: Education/Experiences:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, or Electrical / Electronic Engineering.
At least 2+ years of hand-on experience brining the gap between hardware(PLC/Sensors) and Software (Python/ROS2).
Mechanical: Proficiency in 3D CAD (Fusion 360) and understanding of kinematics/dynamics. Experience with pneumatic and vacuum systems.
Electrical: Experience with specifying, selecting, and wiring industrial controls (PLC & HMI). Experience with various electric motor types.
Software: Strong proficiency in Python and C++. Experience with ROS/ROS2 is a must. Working knowledge of IEC 61131-3 programming standards (ladder and function block).
AI/ML: Familiarity with TensorFlow or PyTorch and their application in robotics (e.g., motion planning or vision-guided manipulation).
Preferred Skills:
Experience with industrial robotic arms (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, or Universal Robots).
Knowledge of communication protocols (EtherCAT, CAN bus, Modbus).
Background in simulation environments like Gazebo, MuJoCo, or NVIDIA Isaac Gym.
A "hacker" mindset—the ability to troubleshoot complex systems where the root cause could be mechanical, electrical, or software-based.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. An individual must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Proper lifting techniques required. While performing the duties of this job, an individual is regularly required to sit. An individual is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. An individual may be required to wear appropriate safety protective equipment at the proper times and in the proper environments as outlined by safety program rules. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of this job, an individual is occasionally exposed to work near moving mechanical parts.
*Applicants must be "legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
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Summary:
We are seeking a multidisciplinary Mechatronics Research Engineer to join our team. This role sits at the intersection of mechanical design, electronic systems, and advanced control theory. Your primary mission will be to bridge the gap between traditional industrial robotics and the next generation of AI-driven automation. You will be responsible for designing, prototyping, and testing integrated systems where hardware meets high-level intelligence. If you enjoy getting your hands dirty with hardware while simultaneously writing code to optimize robotic behavior through machine learning, this is your sandbox. You will work on "bleeding-edge" projects that move beyond theoretical research into real-world industrial impact. We offer a collaborative environment where fail-fast prototyping is encouraged.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Integrated System Design: Design and develop mechatronic systems that seamlessly integrate sensors, actuators, and mechanical structures for industrial applications.
AI & Controls Integration: Assist in the research and implementation of AI/Machine Learning algorithms (e.g., Reinforcement Learning, Computer Vision) onto industrial robotic controllers to improve path planning, grasping, and error recovery.
Prototyping & Testing: Build and iterate on functional prototypes, utilizing rapid prototyping tools, PCB design, and CNC/3D printing.
Control Theory Application: Develop and tune advanced control loops (PID, MPC, etc.) to ensure precision and stability in high-speed robotic operations.
Embedded Systems Programming: Write robust, real-time code for microcontrollers and industrial PCs (PLC, ROS/ROS2, Linux).
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with software engineers and mechanical designers to ensure hardware limitations are accounted for in AI model development.
Documentation & Patent Support: Document research findings, contribute to technical white papers, and assist in the intellectual property filing process.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This job has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Required Qualification: Education/Experiences:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, or Electrical / Electronic Engineering.
At least 2+ years of hand-on experience brining the gap between hardware(PLC/Sensors) and Software (Python/ROS2).
Mechanical: Proficiency in 3D CAD (Fusion 360) and understanding of kinematics/dynamics. Experience with pneumatic and vacuum systems.
Electrical: Experience with specifying, selecting, and wiring industrial controls (PLC & HMI). Experience with various electric motor types.
Software: Strong proficiency in Python and C++. Experience with ROS/ROS2 is a must. Working knowledge of IEC 61131-3 programming standards (ladder and function block).
AI/ML: Familiarity with TensorFlow or PyTorch and their application in robotics (e.g., motion planning or vision-guided manipulation).
Preferred Skills:
Experience with industrial robotic arms (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, or Universal Robots).
Knowledge of communication protocols (EtherCAT, CAN bus, Modbus).
Background in simulation environments like Gazebo, MuJoCo, or NVIDIA Isaac Gym.
A "hacker" mindset—the ability to troubleshoot complex systems where the root cause could be mechanical, electrical, or software-based.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. An individual must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Proper lifting techniques required. While performing the duties of this job, an individual is regularly required to sit. An individual is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. An individual may be required to wear appropriate safety protective equipment at the proper times and in the proper environments as outlined by safety program rules. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of this job, an individual is occasionally exposed to work near moving mechanical parts.
*Applicants must be "legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Show more Show less