Staff Mechanical Engineer, Actuators

Department: Engineering

Location: Palo Alto

Employment Type: FullTime

About ALSO.

We’re ALSO, an electric mobility company originally conceived as a part of Rivian. We’re a passionate team of builders, dreamers, doers and innovators, focused on creating entirely new (not to mention, innovative and delightful) vertically integrated, small EVs designed to meet the global mobility challenges of today and tomorrow. Our mission is to inspire everyone to ride ALSO—replacing many local car, truck and SUV miles with ones on vehicles that are more affordable, more enjoyable and 10-50x more efficient.

What You Will Do

• Design, develop, and test electromechanical actuators and motor-driven mechanisms for light electric vehicle platforms

• Create detailed drawing packages and manufacturing instructions for mechanical parts and assemblies

• Perform 3D modeling of components and assemblies, including die castings, injection-molded plastics, sheet metal, and fasteners

• Collaborate with electrical engineers to integrate PCBAs, wire harnesses, and electronic systems into mechanical designs

• Collaborate with firmware engineers to ensure physical systems support robust control and seamless integration with embedded software

• Coordinate validation efforts with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers

• Develop and execute design verification plans and reports (DVP&R)

• Lead and maintain design failure mode and effects analyses (DFMEAs)

• Prototype and iterate designs using hands-on fabrication and lab testing to validate functionality

What You Will Bring

• 8+ years of experience designing electromechanical actuators

• Deep understanding of motors, servo drives, and motion sensors

• Design experience with precision motion mechanisms, including force/displacement amplification, mechanical linkages, and motion transmission systems.

• Ability to model mechanical behaviors of (e.g. stiffness, losses, backlash) using MATLAB/Simulink.

• Design experience with PCBA integration and wire harness design

• Strong foundation in material properties, heat treatment, statics, and dynamics

• Knowledgeable about control strategies and firmware implementation

• Proficient in developing low-level drivers using Python, C, and C++

• Proficient in 3D/2D CAD (Catia V5/V6 preferred) and skilled in CAE tools (Ansys, Abaqus, HyperWorks, or similar)

• Strong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis

• Familiarity with PLM systems, BOM structuring, engineering changes, and deviation processes

The salary for this position ranges from $220,000 to $250,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

Why ALSO.

We’re passionate about helping the world find a better way to get there—wherever it is you’re headed.

We’re located in the heart of Silicon Valley and have brought together a world-class team from some of the biggest brands in the technology, automotive, cycling, outdoor recreation and retail spaces. 

Together we’re working hands-on to imagine, design and build an entirely new solution to a global set of transportation challenges. 

Perks and Benefits

• Robust health coverage. Excellent health, dental and vision insurance covered up to 100% by ALSO with FSA & HSA options.

• One Medical membership and dedicated insurance advocates.

• Rich fertility and family building benefits with Progyny.

• Flexible time off. 

• 401(k) match.