Technical Program Manager - Robotics Hardware Systems

Born out of ETH Zurich and headquartered in the vibrant city of Tokyo, Rapyuta Robotics operates with the vision to be the leader in making robots more accessible to anyone. We lead the pick‑assist AMR market in Japan and, with the launch of Rapyuta ASRS and other next‑generation systems, we are redefining warehouse automation by blending top‑tier performance with unmatched adaptability.  

As a Technical Program Manager – Robotics Hardware Systems, you will drive the end‑to‑end delivery of complex mechatronics programs spanning mechanical, electrical/electronics, and embedded systems, working closely with cross‑functional engineering teams and manufacturing partners. You will orchestrate the journey from concept and prototyping through DFM/DFA, validation, and ramp to production platforms such as AGVs, AMRs, elevators, battery exchangers, and autonomous forklifts.  

This is a high‑impact, technical program role for someone who can operate comfortably at the intersection of hardware engineering, multi‑robot systems, and large‑scale delivery, ensuring that what we ship is safe, reliable, and economically viable in real customer warehouses.  

Expected Mindset 

• Driven by purpose and aligned with company mission and values. 

• Maintains composure, connects with others, and turns constraints into opportunities. 

• Balances technical rigor with practical delivery.

Key Responsibilities 

• Own full delivery of robotics hardware programs from concept to production. 

• Set program goals and metrics for safety, cost, quality, and scalability. 

• Lead and align cross-functional engineering teams. 

• Manage program backlog, planning, and execution, coordinate hardware and software releases. 

• Champion DFM/DFA and coordinate builds and cost optimization. 

• Oversee risks, dependencies, and validation strategies. 

• Use data dashboards for delivery and drive continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s in Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, or Mechatronics Engineering, or equivalent hardware product development experience. 

• 5+ years in product development for electromechanical automation (robotics, automotive, industrial machinery), focusing on motion systems, power electronics, or control cabinets. 

• 3+ years leading technical programs (program manager, TPM, or project manager) in commercial settings. 

• Familiar with motion subsystems (drivetrains, lifts, chassis) and related constraints. 

• Understands embedded/electrical systems (power, motor drives, PLCs, sensors) to engage in design discussions and trade-offs. 

• Experience with DFM/DFA, vendor collaboration, and mass production ramp-up. 

• Proven ability to plan, prioritize, and deliver complex, cross-team programs on schedule and within scope. 

• Skilled at fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration (mechanical, electrical, software, operations, business). 

• Business-level English proficiency for collaborating with suppliers, global teams, and customers is required.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience delivering programs for warehouse automation, AGVs/AMRs, ASRS, or other industrial robotics systems.  

• Hands‑on background in one or more of:

- Mechanical design for motion systems (chassis, suspension, lift, drive modules). 

- Electrical/electronics design for automation systems, including PLC integration and industrial communication (e.g., CAN, CAN‑FD, fieldbus).  

- Embedded systems for robotics (controllers, sensor integration, safety‑related control).  

• Engineer‑type roles in hardware‑software programs.  

• Experience working with regulatory or safety standards relevant to industrial equipment. 

• Prior work in a startup or high‑growth environment where ambiguity and fast iteration are the norm.  

• Business-level Japanese proficiency for engaging with Japanese suppliers and customers is preferred.

What We Offer 

• Competitive salary and benefits package. 

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge robotics technologies. 

• Collaborative and innovative work environment. 

• Career growth and development opportunities. 

• VISA application support