Manager, R&D Build

Boston Dynamics is seeking a Sr. Supervisor, R&D Build to lead the hands-on assembly, test, and troubleshooting of critical electromechanical systems for our next-generation robotic platforms. This is a player-coach role requiring technical depth and team leadership. You will oversee the build of custom actuators, motors, robotic subassemblies, and full-system integrations during the research and prototype phases. This role supports rapid iteration cycles to drive innovation across our humanoid and mobile robot platforms, requiring a candidate who thrives in an R&D environment where precision and speed go hand in hand.   

Key Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of skilled R&D technicians focused on building custom motors, actuators, motion subsystems, and full-system robotic integration.   

• Operational Coordination: Plan and coordinate daily work based on build schedules, development priorities, and program needs.  

• Technical Execution: Actively participate in hands-on builds, reworks, teardowns, and debug activities to troubleshoot complex electromechanical systems.   

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Partner closely with Engineering, Test, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure material readiness, fast root cause resolution, and clean handoffs.   

• Process Optimization: Contribute to the development and refinement of build processes, tooling, and fixtures to improve efficiency, repeatability, and craftsmanship.   

• Standards & Documentation: Maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety (including ESD compliance), and documentation (build work instructions, torque specs, test results).   

• Team Development: Onboard new hires and train technicians in best practices for precision assembly and system-level integration.   

Required Skills:

• 5+ years in prototype or low-volume manufacturing with a focus on electromechanical subassemblies, system integration, or robotics.   

• 2+ years of direct team leadership or supervisory experience in a technical build environment.   

• Deep familiarity with precision assembly (torque control, press fits, alignment, bonding/potting, motor winding, and cable/harness routing).   

• Ability to interpret engineering drawings/schematics and utilize tools like meters, scopes, and test rigs for debugging.   
   

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with robotics, aerospace,Large Scale 3d printing, or automotive drivetrains; familiarity with PLM systems (Arena, Agile) and Project Management software (JIRA, Smartsheets).   

Core Competencies:

• Operational Excellence: Drives rigor in execution and holds the team to the highest standards of safety and hardware readiness.   

• Adaptive Leadership: Balances the need for structured processes with the flexibility required in a fast-paced, ambiguous R&D setting.   

• Strategic Problem Solving: Identifies root causes of operational friction and develops scalable solutions to eliminate them.   

The pay range for this position is between $101,000 to $135,000 annually. Base pay will depend on multiple individualized factors including, but not limited to internal equity, job related knowledge, skills and experience. This range represents a good faith estimate of compensation at the time of posting. Boston Dynamics offers a generous Benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401(k), paid time off and a annual bonus structure. Additional details regarding these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer for employment.