Hardware Systems & Lab Engineer

About the Company

Basis is a nonprofit applied AI research organization focused on understanding and building intelligence and advancing society's ability to solve intractable problems through a new technological foundation.

Responsibilities

• Design and build custom robotic platforms including manipulators, mobile robots, and specialized end-effectors
• Develop modular hardware systems for testbeds and reconfigurable architectures
• Create sensor and actuator modules integrating cameras, force sensors, and IMUs
• Manage vendor relationships, procurement, and spare parts inventory
• Support hardware-software integration for reliable communication with control algorithms
• Establish and maintain safety protocols, including lockout/tagout and emergency stops
• Organize lab infrastructure, workbenches, and specialized equipment like 3D printers
• Manage lab inventory and coordinate purchasing
• Train researchers on safe equipment use and emergency responses
• Maintain lab equipment through preventive maintenance and calibration

Requirements

• Demonstrated expertise in robotic hardware development and custom platforms
• Strong mechatronics skills in mechanical design (CAD), electrical engineering, and embedded systems
• Experience with lab management, safety protocols, and equipment inventory
• Ability to translate research needs into hardware specifications
• Proficiency in rapid prototyping and iterative design
• Strong documentation skills and maintenance of BOMs
• Ability to work autonomously while prioritizing safety

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience at leading academic or industry robotics labs
• Background in research environments
• Expertise in soft robotics, bio-inspired design, or micro-robotics
• Experience with ROS 2 and modern robot software stacks
• Teaching or training experience for lab safety
• Project management experience for complex hardware builds