Lead Engineer for Robotic Palletizer

We are a startup preparing to launch a new line of industrial automation machinery. We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Mechatronics Engineer to spearhead the research, 3D design, and digital simulation of a 4-Axis Articulated Robotic Palletizer. The primary function of this robot is to automate the stacking of heavy sacks/bags (similar to the operational mechanics seen in "video-bags.mp4"). Because this is intended for commercial manufacturing, the entire design must emphasize structural rigidity, industrial-grade reliability, ease of mass assembly, and component cost-optimization. Scope of Work & Deliverables We are looking for a complete end-to-end design phase. Your responsibilities will include: 1. Mechanical Design & Kinematics Design a 4-axis articulated robotic arm capable of a payload capacity of [e.g., 25kg to 50kg] and a maximum reach of [e.g., 1.5 to 2.0 meters]. Utilize parallel linkage mechanisms to ensure the end-effector (gripper) remains perfectly parallel to the ground throughout its entire range of motion. Design/select a heavy-duty mechanical or vacuum-assisted gripper specialized for lifting porous sacks/bags. Provide a complete Bill of Materials (BOM) specifying precise high-torque AC Servo Motors and high-precision planetary/harmonic drive gearboxes. 2. Electrical & Control System Architecture Design the theoretical electrical layout and power distribution network (220V/440V). Specify appropriate servo drives, industrial sensors, and a centralized control system (preference for an industrial PLC or a robust ROS2-compatible industrial microcomputer setup). Integrate standard safety hardware requirements (E-stops, fault-handling logic). 3. Simulation & Digital Twin Create a complete 3D CAD assembly of the robot (using SolidWorks or Autodesk Fusion 360). Deliver a physics-backed digital simulation (using ROS/Gazebo, Webots, or SolidWorks Motion) demonstrating the robot successfully executing a smooth pick-and-place cycle: lifting a bag from a conveyor belt, calculating Inverse Kinematics, and stacking it neatly onto a standard pallet. Required Profile & Qualifications Proven track record in Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, or Industrial Automation. Direct experience designing multi-axis robotic manipulators, CNC machines, or heavy factory automation equipment. Mastery of 3D CAD software (SolidWorks/Fusion 360) and robotic simulation tools. Deep understanding of motor sizing, gear ratios, backlash management, and structural stress analysis (FEA). Strong communication skills; ability to explain technical trade-offs to a non-technical founder. How to Apply Please submit your portfolio or examples of past machinery/robotics projects you have engineered. In your cover letter, briefly answer: Have you ever designed or simulated a multi-axis robotic arm or a heavy-duty lifting mechanism? Which software stack (CAD and Simulation) do you recommend for this specific industrial palletizing project?