Feeny
Dexmate

Senior CAE engineer at Dexmate (Fremont, CA)

Dexmate· Fremont, CA· $100k–$300k·

Role details

Salary
$100k–$300k
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full-Time
Skills
Finite Element Analysis (FEA)CAE toolsAbaqusANSYSLS-DYNACOMSOLOptiStructSolid mechanicsStructural dynamicsMaterial scienceImplicit finite element analysisExplicit finite element analysis

Summary

Design and validate mechanical systems for next-generation manipulation robots using high-fidelity finite element models. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize structural designs, conduct simulations, and support root cause analysis for production issues.

Job description

WHAT YOU'LL DO

As a CAE Engineer on the Dexmate Robotics team, you will be at the forefront of designing and validating mechanical systems for our next-generation manipulation robots. You'll guide design decisions using high-fidelity finite element models grounded in sound engineering principles, working closely with mechanical, electrical, controls, software, and manufacturing teams to bring unprecedented robotic capabilities to life.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Develop and analyze comprehensive finite element models for robotic systems, from individual components to full assemblies
  • Conduct static, dynamic, structural, and multi-body dynamics (MBD) simulations to evaluate performance against key requirements for strength, stiffness, durability, and manipulation accuracy
  • Guide mechanical design teams with actionable insights and design direction based on rigorous analysis
  • Optimize structural designs to minimize weight while maximizing stiffness, reliability, and performance under real-world operational loads
  • Define and analyze load cases for manipulation tasks, impacts, handling scenarios, and day-to-day operations
  • Validate FEA models through experimental testing and iterate based on physical performance data
  • Challenge traditional CAE methods and pioneer more efficient, accurate approaches for robotic systems
  • Collaborate with controls engineers to understand dynamic load profiles and system-level performance requirements
  • Support root cause analysis and failure investigation for production issues
  • Develop CAE workflows, best practices, and documentation to scale analysis capabilities across the team

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mechanics, or related field with 5+ years of experience OR Master's degree with 3+ years of experience OR PhD in designing and analyzing mechanical systems using FEA and CAE tools
  • 3+ years of experience in designing and analyzing mechanical systems using FEA and CAE tools
  • Strong fundamentals in solid mechanics, structural dynamics, and material science
  • Proficiency in CAE software (Abaqus, ANSYS, LS-DYNA, COMSOL, OptiStruct, or equivalent)
  • Experience with both implicit and explicit finite element analysis
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct static, dynamic, and durability analyses
  • Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and ability to translate analysis into actionable design recommendations
  • Experience with experimental validation methods and correlation between simulation and physical testing
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams
  • Self-motivated problem solver who can work independently on challenging technical problems

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • Experience in robotics, automation, or mechatronics industries
  • Proficiency with multi-body dynamics simulation (ADAMS, MuJoCo, PyBullet)
  • Experience analyzing aluminum structures, composites, and advanced materials
  • Knowledge of advanced joining methods (adhesives, welding, mechanical fasteners)
  • Expertise in non-linear analysis, contact mechanics, and material characterization
  • Proficiency in programming/scripting for automation (Python, MATLAB)
  • Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, OnShape, CATIA, NX, etc.)
  • Familiarity with structural dynamics, vibration analysis, and modal testing
  • Experience with thermal-structural coupling and multi-physics simulations
  • Understanding of manufacturing processes and design for manufacturability
  • Knowledge of fatigue analysis and life prediction methodologies

Why work at Dexmate

  • Mission-Driven: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge general-purpose robotics and Physical AI, moving technology from labs to real-world impact.
  • Engineering-Heavy Culture: 60% of employees are in technical roles (AI, robotics, software, hardware), with a strong emphasis on hands-on building.
  • Fast-Growing Startup: ~328% headcount growth in one year, indicating high trajectory and opportunity for early employees to have outsized impact.
  • Location: HQ in Santa Clara, CA (Silicon Valley), with an in-office work policy (on-site workspace).
  • Compensation: Engineering roles list salary ranges like $100K–$300K, competitive for the robotics/AI space.
  • Notable Culture Signals: "Build with us" hiring language, active LinkedIn community (4,273 followers), and a focus on "smile, reach out, and instantly connect" suggests a collaborative, builder-oriented environment.

Application questions