Hardware integration Engineer

RIVR, part of Amazon is a robotics company pioneering Physical AI through real-world doorstep delivery. Founded in 2024 as an ETH Zurich spin-off, RIVR developed wheeled-legged robots designed to operate in complex, unstructured environments such as stairs, gates, doors, and uneven urban terrain. We believe that achieving general physical intelligence requires solving real customer problems in the real world, where robots can learn from rich operational data at scale.

Following our acquisition by Amazon in March 2026, we are continuing this mission with greater reach and speed. By combining custom robot hardware, onboard autonomy, and cloud-based coordination, RIVR, part of Amazon is building the next generation of safe, reliable autonomous robots for last-mile delivery.

Job Description 

As a Hardware Integration Engineer in our Shanghai office, you will serve as the technical anchor between Zurich design engineering, local assembly operations, and Chinese supply chain networks. While our Zurich team focuses on initial R&D prototypes, the Shanghai team drives hardware localization, component substitution, shop-floor assembly support, and structural testing as we evolve toward production-ready systems. 

In this role, you will be primary hands-on responsible for resolving assembly line issues, answering technical clarifications on engineering drawings, performing root-cause failure analysis, and executing mechanical component localization. You will ensure our complex electromechanical systems move smoothly from early prototypes to robust, repeatable builds ready for real-world deployment. 

What you’ll be doing

Core Responsibilities (Mechanical Focus): 

• Assembly & Shop-Floor Support: Provide on-site technical support for production and assembly lines. Clarify mechanical drawings, geometric tolerances, torque specs, and assembly sequences to resolve real-time build issues. 
• Failure Analysis & Design Iteration: Lead root-cause analysis for mechanical failures, structural defects, and assembly bottlenecks during build/testing phases; drive rapid design revisions and process improvements. 
• Supplier Technical Alignment & ECNs: Coordinate directly with component suppliers and contract manufacturers to clarify drawing requirements, resolve manufacturing feasibility issues, and issue engineering change notices (ECNs). 

Cross-Functional & Integrated Responsibilities (Support): 

•  Test Rig & Hardware Alignment: Assist in early-stage mechanical setup and structural alignment for test rigs and testing fixtures. 
•  Peripheral Mounting & Wire Routing: Support the structural mounting and wire harness routing setup for sensors and hardware components (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, RC units). 

What you must have

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automotive, Aerospace, or a related field. 
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in manufacturing, prototyping, or small-batch production of hardware systems.
• Strong CAD proficiency and deep expertise in interpreting, modifying, and rapidly releasing mechanical engineer in drawings (GD&T, tolerance analysis). 
• Proven experience in technical communication with suppliers, clarifying manufacturing requirements, and managing engineering change processes. 
• Practical knowledge in assembly support, shop-floor troubleshooting, and component localization. 

Get some bonus points

• Master’s degree or higher in Engineering, Mechatronics, or Robotics. 
• Hands-on experience with test bench/rig setup and fixture design for electromechanical systems.
• Experience transitioning R&D prototypes into small-batch setups. 
• Practical exposure to evaluating and integrating electronic peripherals (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, RC controllers, custom cable harnesses). 
• Solid grasp of electrical engineering (EE) fundamentals, including component working principles and hands-on electrical troubleshooting skills