Who we are:
Paradigm Robotics is an Austin, Texas based robotics startup building rugged, scalable robots for situational awareness in hazardous environments. We serve firefighting, emergency response, public safety, oil & gas, defense, and industrial markets. Our mission is to create a new paradigm of scalable, reliable, and useful robots for real-world hazardous operations - providing critical solutions to the most dangerous problems out there.
We've raised an oversubscribed round from top-tier venture firms. We’re working directly with over 80 of the largest fire departments, law enforcement agencies, industrial teams, and military units across the U.S., including the Air Force, Army, and SERDP. Our robots are built with and for firefighters, first responders, warfighters, and emergency crews.
Why this will be challenging, meaningful, and fun work
We are solving problems that matter. Building robots that operate in fire, heat, debris, water, and chaos is incredibly hard, and building them to scale is even harder. That is why we focus on engineering rigor, rapid iteration, and deep user feedback. We ship real robots into real fires for real customers, which means everyone on the team takes ownership, talks to users, and builds.
We value curiosity, autonomy, and low-ego collaboration, and we celebrate wins while owning mistakes. At the same time, we know how to have fun. From stargazing trips, go-kart races, and off-sites to Tulum, to goldfish pranks that turned into a full aquarium, we work hard and enjoy the ride together. This is a place where you can do your best work, learn a ton, build cool things, and make lifelong friends.
Role:
Mechanical Engineer [Contractor]
Role Type:
Part-Time
Role Description:
As a Mechanical Engineer [Contractor], you will be responsible for the design, analysis, and integration of mechanical systems, including those exposed to high-temperature, corrosive, or water-intensive environments, and often involving electromechanical components. You’ll contribute across the product lifecycle on an as-needed or project basis, with significant involvement from concept through field deployment.
This role emphasizes execution and decision-making autonomy. You’ll collaborate closely with the internal team, contribute high-impact work, and be trusted to drive results within your domain.
We’re looking for engineers who take initiative, communicate proactively, and care deeply about details, especially those comfortable working independently while aligning with team needs.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design and engineer robust mechanical solutions based on high-level system requirements
- Develop 3D CAD models and early-stage proof-of-concepts
- Perform strength, reliability, and thermal analysis as appropriate
- Lead and participate in design reviews and cross-functional triage sessions
- Generate detailed drawings with GD&T for prototyping and production
- Work with suppliers/manufacturers when required to ensure part quality
- Plan and execute mechanical test protocols; conduct root cause analysis for failures
- Design and fabricate test fixtures, jigs, or tools as needed
- Support system integration, testing, and build activities for robots and subassemblies
- Document decisions, test outcomes, and analysis in a structured, shareable format
Who we are looking for:
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical or related engineering discipline
- 2+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis for complex systems
- Demonstrated experience across the product lifecycle
- Proficiency with CAD (e.g., SolidWorks) and analysis tools (e.g., Ansys)
- Solid understanding of GD&T
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master’s degree or equivalent experience in mechanical engineering
- 3+ years working on robotic or complex electro-mechanical systems
- Startup or 0→1 experience (especially in hardware or robotics contexts)
- Familiarity with field reliability constraints and iterative development
- Advanced expertise in GD&T and mechanical documentation
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be comfortable with hands-on work: design, assembly, testing, and field support
- Willingness to engage during high-priority build or test efforts as needed (occasionally outside standard hours)
- Open to advising or supporting junior team members with mechanical guidance
- Strong communicator, especially around process improvements and trade-offs
Work Environment:
Austin, Texas
Hybrid (remote, or in-person)
Monday - Friday/Saturday (5/6 days a week)
20-40+ hours a week
Compensation and Benefits:
$30-$175/hr (Depending on experience)
Flexible Schedule/Unlimited PTO
Free meals, swag, and more!
Contact:
Please contact [email protected] with any questions. Do not send an application through this email - it will not be screened.
At Paradigm Robotics, we believe the best ideas come from working side by side. We're an office-first team because building breakthrough tech that rolls into burning buildings takes tight feedback loops, fast iteration, and real-time collaboration. That said, we trust our team with autonomy. If you need to work from home once in a while, that's totally fine. What matters is that we deliver together.
We're building robots to keep first responders safe and change how emergency response works. To do that, we need a team with a range of perspectives, backgrounds, and lived experiences. We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and committed to a culture where everyone feels ownership, respect, and belonging. If our mission resonates with you, we’d love to meet you.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $30.00 - $75.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Referral program
- Relocation assistance
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Austin, TX 78758
