Hardware Engineering Manager - Robotics R&D

Job Function:

R&D Product Development

Job Sub Function:

R&D Electrical/Mechatronic Engineering

Job Category:

People Leader

All Job Posting Locations:

Santa Clara, California, United States of America

Job Description:

The Robotics and Digital solutions (RAD) group, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, is recruiting for a Hardware Engineering Manager for the Ottava R&D Team. This position is located in Santa Clara, CA.

What We Do:

The Ottava R&D team envisions a future for robotic intervention that is targeted, minimally invasive, and personalized. Building upon a deep understanding of patient and physician needs, we are developing a platform for the next evolution of soft-tissue robotic care.

Who We Are:

We are a team of mechanical, electrical, mechatronics, robotic controls, software, and clinical engineers who are passionate about improving patient care. The team includes a wide range of experience levels from junior engineers to industry experts. We follow an iterative design approach to product development that requires us to collaborate closely across clinical, capital hardware, and instruments & accessories teams. We value autonomy and empower each other to take action while remaining a supportive and closely knit team. We take pride in our culture and are committed to building an environment that is inclusive and promotes diversity of thought through varied experiences and backgrounds.

You:

As the Hardware Engineering Manager on the Ottava R&D team, you will play a key role in designing and building one of the world’s most advanced medical robotic platforms. You will be responsible for leading the architecture, development, and execution of robotic mechanical subsystems within our capital hardware portfolio, while also growing and supporting a high-performing team of engineers.

This is a highly visible role for a leader who enjoys balancing technical depth, hands-on engineering contribution, and people leadership. You will work alongside cross-functional engineering teams to drive meaningful contributions in areas including custom actuator design, structural design, sensor integration, and novel human-robot interaction technologies. As our programs evolve, you will help shape both the product and the team that brings it to life.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and delivery of robotic capital hardware for surgical environments.
• Manage and mentor a team of mechanical and electrical engineers, supporting growth and execution.
• Contribute hands-on to subsystem design, including actuators, structures, and sensors.
• Drive rapid prototyping and transition to commercial-ready designs.
• Provide technical guidance on feasibility, test strategies, and product direction.
• Collaborate across software, controls, systems, manufacturing, quality, and clinical teams.
• Participate in design reviews, cross-functional discussions, and clinical labs.
• Engage vendors and external partners to support development and commercialization.
• Support innovation through new concepts, technologies, and design improvements.

Qualifications

Required Knowledge/Skills, Education, And Experience:

• BS in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or equivalent fields with 6****+ years of experience (robotics and/or medical device preferred).
• Proven technical leadership in product development (concept through launch).
• Experience leading or mentoring engineers.
• Strong fundamentals: Mechatronics, materials, FEA, GD &T.
• Experience developing and launching complex robotic/electromechanical systems.
• Familiarity with medical device regulations (IEC 60601, 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, ISO 14971 ) , ASME standards and IEEE standards.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills.

Required Skills:

Electromechanical Systems, Geometric Dimensioning And Tolerancing (GD&T), Medical Device Regulations, Robotic Machines

Preferred Skills:

Business Behavior, Consulting, Critical Thinking, Design Mindset, Design Thinking, Developing Others, Electrical Engineering, Feasibility Studies, Inclusive Leadership, Leadership, Mechanical Engineering, Quality Focus, Research and Development, Robotic Automation, SAP Product Lifecycle Management, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Application, Smart Systems, Technical Research