Intermediate Research & Development Engineer at Sanctuary AI

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

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CA$130,000 – CA$160,000Compensation

Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Robotics, AIIndustries

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Engineering Physics, or a related technical field
Proven experience in advanced electromechanical or robotic systems development
Extensive experience with hydraulic systems and components
Experience designing components or subsystems with weight, size, and thermal limitations
Proven track record in taking R&D hardware from concept to functional prototype and system integration
Demonstrated ability to work in high-performance, cross-functional engineering environments
Deep understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering fundamentals
Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, dynamic modeling)
Strong prototyping skills, including use of hand/power tools, machining, or 3D printing
Experience with electromechanical actuators, sensors, and control integration
Experience in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
Experience with Agile development methodologies and tools like Jira
Excellent communication and documentation skills
Consistently positive attitude and willingness to do whatever it takes to create robust solutions
Ability to use existing knowledge to develop original ways of working
Taking personal responsibility for the quality and content of work
Analyzing data and information to make considered decisions
Expressing interest in others’ experiences and ideas
Obsession with bringing human-like intelligence to machines

Responsibilities

Develop high-performance technologies that integrate mechanical, electrical, and fluidic systems under demanding physical constraints
Contribute across the full R&D lifecycle, from early-stage design and simulation through prototyping, validation, and integration into complex robotic platforms
Enable lifelike motion through compact actuator systems and precision mechanisms
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams in AI, embedded systems, and controls to solve engineering challenges
Serve as a technical mentor within the team
Play a key role in setting standards for quality, documentation, and repeatability
Bring hands-on experience developing advanced electro-mechanical systems with tightly integrated mechanical, electrical, and fluidic components
Take ownership of complex system development from concept and simulation through validation and integration
Demonstrate technical leadership in designing actuation solutions under extreme packaging, thermal, and performance constraints
Expand impact by mentoring junior engineers and contributing to cross-functional development initiatives
Apply simulation, modeling, and analytical tools to inform design and optimize system performance
Create clear, production-ready documentation such as CAD drawings, test protocols, and assembly instructions

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

roboticselectro-mechanical systemsactuatorssimulationprototypingvalidationintegrationembedded systemscontrolsmechanical designelectrical systemsfluidic systemsmodeling

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Intermediate Research & Development Engineer position?

The salary range is CAD $130,000 – $160,000.

Is this role remote or does it require working in an office?

The work location is Vancouver, BC.

What are the key skills required for this role?

Key skills include deep understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering fundamentals, proficiency in CAD and simulation tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, dynamic modeling), strong prototyping skills including machining or 3D printing, and experience with electromechanical actuators and sensors.

What benefits are offered for this position?

Benefits include equity stakes, health coverage, and paid time off.

What experience makes a strong candidate for this role?

Strong candidates have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, proven experience in advanced electromechanical or robotic systems, extensive experience with hydraulic systems, and a track record in taking R&D hardware from concept to prototype and integration.

Sanctuary AI

Develops humanoid robots for workplace automation

About Sanctuary AI

Sanctuary AI develops humanoid robots designed to work alongside humans in various industries. Their main product, Phoenix™, is a general-purpose robot that can be remotely piloted or operate autonomously, allowing it to observe, assess, and perform tasks as needed. This versatility enables businesses to automate processes, enhance efficiency, and improve safety in the workplace. Unlike many competitors, Sanctuary AI focuses on creating robots that can seamlessly integrate into human work environments, providing training for these robots to ensure effective collaboration. The goal of Sanctuary AI is to advance the capabilities of AI and robotics to create safer and more productive workplaces.

Vancouver, CanadaHeadquarters

2018Year Founded

$86.1MTotal Funding

GRANTCompany Stage

Robotics & Automation, AI & Machine LearningIndustries

51-200Employees

Benefits

Medical, dental, & vision insurance

Wellness programs

Stock options

PTO

Schedule flexibility

Risks

Leadership changes, like Geordie Rose stepping down, may disrupt strategic direction.

Increased competition from well-funded companies could challenge Sanctuary AI's market position.

Technical hurdles in achieving human-level dexterity may delay product deployment.

Differentiation

Sanctuary AI developed Phoenix™, the first general-purpose humanoid robot with human-like intelligence.

Their proprietary AI system, Carbon™, enables autonomous task execution and remote supervision.

Sanctuary AI's tactile sensor technology enhances robot dexterity, setting them apart in robotics.

Upsides

Sanctuary AI secured $140 million in funding, boosting innovation and development capabilities.

Phoenix™ was recognized in TIME’s Best Inventions 2023, enhancing brand visibility and credibility.

Prominent investors like Accenture and Verizon Ventures show confidence in Sanctuary AI's potential.

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