Lead Mechanical Architect - Joint Actuator System Design

📝 About the Role

We're building a next-generation companion robot designed to be "a family member of the future." Our team is made up of engineers from robotics, AI, and product development backgrounds, and we're already deep in the engineering development phase. We're now looking for a Lead Mechanical Architect to own the design of FURIVO's core — its joint actuator system. This is a creative role focused on inventing mechanisms that don't yet exist on the market, with real opportunities for patent filing.

We're flexible on employment type — full-time, contract, freelance, or part-time/side project. Choose what works for you.

🔧 What You'll Do

Mechanism Innovation & Architecture

• Design the mechanical architecture of FURIVO's joint actuator units
• Invent novel motion mechanisms: reduction systems, torque transmission, output shaft configurations
• Explore mechanical solutions that achieve both small size and high performance
• Conceive and design original mechanisms suitable for patent filing

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work with electronics, embedded, and AI teams on system integration
• Negotiate with suppliers and manufacturers, balancing manufacturability and cost
• Shape the product roadmap together with the CEO and CTO

✨ Why This Role

• Lead the core of the product — the mechanical system that brings FURIVO to life
• A creative, inventive role — design mechanisms that don't exist on the market
• Real opportunities to file patents for original mechanisms you create ・Work directly with the CEO and CTO to shape the product roadmap
• Flexible engagement: full-time commitment or advisory/freelance, both welcome ・Speed and impact of a startup environment ・Trilingual team (JP / EN/ CN), building for global launch including CES

✅ Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
• 8+ years of professional experience in mechanical design for consumer electronics, robotics, or precision mechatronics products
• Proven experience bringing products from prototype through mass production (10,000+ units)
• Deep expertise in DFM / DFA principles
• Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks / Fusion 360 / Creo, etc.)
• Experience leading design reviews and mentoring engineers

🌟 Preferred Qualifications

• Track record of bringing consumer robotics products to mass production
• Experience integrating BLDC or frameless torque motors into mechanical systems
• Practical experience in vibration & noise (NVH) analysis and low-noise design

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• Knowledge of gear noise reduction, backlash control, and tooth profile modification
• Experience designing original mechanisms not available on the market, with patent filings
• Knowledge of toy safety standards (EN 71 / ASTM F963)
• Product development experience in a startup environment
• Holdings of relevant patents or technical publications

💡 Who We're Looking For

• Engineers who want to use their mechanical expertise to build the core of a product
• Inventors who want to challenge convention and create original mechanisms
• Leaders who find meaning in mentoring and developing the next generation
• Professionals who want to make an outsized impact at a startup's growth stage

📍 Logistics

• Location: Tokyo, Japan
• Visa sponsorship: Available for exceptional candidates
• Language: Trilingual team (JP/EN/CN); Japanese ability preferred but not required
• Compensation: Competitive, based on experience and engagement type