LAYERED is a Swiss construction robotics startup emerging from ETH Zurich’s Gramazio Kohler Research, a pioneer in digital fabrication and robotic construction.
We build autonomous mobile robots that perform surface finishing tasks directly on real construction sites. Our systems combine robotics, digital fabrication, and AI‑driven planning to handle the variability and constraints of the built environment, making site work safer, more efficient, and more sustainable while keeping skilled craftspeople at the center of the process.
Our robots are already running in mock‑ups and live construction sites. We are now strengthening our hardware team to make the system more robust, easier to maintain, and ready for frequent field deployments with short iteration cycles.
The Role
We are looking for a hands‑on Mechatronics Engineer who will take ownership of the robot’s mechanical and hardware platform. This is a builder role. You will design parts, prototype quickly, assemble systems, improve reliability, and work directly on the physical robots that go to site. You will help transform a research‑grade robotic system into a robust, field‑ready machine that can be transported, assembled, serviced, and operated in real construction environments. You are not just designing parts—you are shaping the physical platform that will scale from a prototype to a fleet of working robots.
What You Will Work On
Your main focus:
* Designing and iterating mechanical components and assemblies for our robotic platforms
* Performing mechanical calculations and basic simulations (loads, moments, tipping stability, structural behavior)
* Improving robustness, serviceability, and manufacturability of the system
* Rapid prototyping using additive manufacturing and workshop tools
* Managing and structuring BOMs with hundreds of parts
* Continuously searching for better, simpler, and more cost‑effective hardware solutions and suppliers
You will also:
* Assemble, modify, and repair robotic systems in the lab
* Support integration of electronics, sensors, actuators, and cable routing
* Work closely with robotics software and control engineers to ensure tight hardware–software integration
* Prepare robots for deployment and help analyze hardware issues after site operations
* Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workshop environment
Requirements
Must Have
* Degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field
* Strong experience in mechanical design and CAD
* Solid understanding of mechanics and ability to perform engineering calculations (loads, moments, structural reasoning, stability)
* Hands‑on experience building and assembling mechanical or robotic systems
* Experience with rapid prototyping (3D printing, machining, workshop tools)
* Comfortable managing large assemblies and structured BOMs
* Fluent in German and English
* Comfortable working in a hands‑on startup environment where you build what you design
* Willing to work on-site with robots in industrial and construction‑like environments
* Physically able to lift components and work on large mechanical assemblies
* Valid driving license (Switzerland or EU)
* Valid Swiss work permit or eligibility to work in Switzerland
Nice to Have
* Experience working on mobile robots, industrial machines, or construction equipment
* Familiarity with electrical integration, wiring, or low‑voltage systems
* Experience designing for outdoor or harsh environments
* Knowledge of manufacturing processes (sheet metal, machining, composites, etc.)
* Experience improving serviceability and field repairability of machines
Who You Are
* You are a builder and a hacker— you enjoy figuring things out and making machines work
* You think beyond CAD and care about durability, access for repair, transport, and real‑world abuse
* You love hardware, cables, and a tidy, well‑organized workshop
* You enjoy going from design → prototype → assembled system
* You are practical, curious, and not afraid to get your hands dirty
* You want to see robots you helped build working on real construction sites
What You Get
* Work on one of the most challenging real-world applications for robotics
* Be part of the transition from a single advanced prototype to a growing fleet of deployed construction robots
* A core role in a growing deep‑tech company emerging from ETH Zurich
* Direct responsibility for shaping the physical robot platform
* Fast iteration cycles and direct impact on product performance
* A small, driven team where your work directly shapes the machine
LAYERED is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and does not discriminate based on race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, gender expression, disability, or any other protected legal status.
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