Robotics System Engineer, Senior

Job Summary

We are a venture-backed startup developing next-generation orchestration software for autonomous systems. Our platform enables the complex coordination of multi-domain robotic systems with applications in defense and commercial sectors.

We are seeking a senior robotics systems engineer to lead our hardware integration team. Our multi-agent orchestration software needs to be provisioned on various, multi-domain hardware platforms, including autonomous aerial, ground, surface, and subsurface vehicles. 

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize robotic systems for complex applications, including autonomous navigation, manipulation, and perception

• Integrate hardware components (sensors, actuators, controllers) with software systems, ensuring robust and efficient performance

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to define and achieve system requirements

• Develop and maintain software components using ROS2 (Robot Operating System 2) and DDS (Data Distribution Service) middleware

• Implement algorithms for motion planning, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), and object recognition

• Optimize real-time performance for robotic applications

• Conduct system-level testing, validation, and debugging in both simulated and real-world environments

• Develop simulation environments and tools to evaluate robotic behaviors before deployment

• Ensure systems meet safety and compliance standards

• Lead or contribute to technical discussions, design reviews, and project planning

• Stay up to date with advancements in robotics and apply innovative techniques to projects

• Document designs, code, and processes for maintainability and knowledge sharing

Required Qualifications

• This position requires the candidate to be a "U.S. Person" as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15). You must be either:

  • A U.S. citizen

  • A lawful permanent resident (green card holder)

  • A refugee, asylee, or other protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)

• Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Control Systems, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

• 5+ years of professional experience in robotics or systems engineer role

• Proven track record of developing and deploying robotic systems in real-world applications

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to convey complex technical ideas effectively

• Experience deploying software on edge computing platforms (e.g. Jetson, RPi)

• Strong programming skills in C++ and Python

• Expertise in ROS2 and DDS for distributed robotics systems

• Experience with robotics simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, RViz)

• Experience with robotics sensors, including LIDAR, EO/IR cameras, IMU, GPS, and/or acoustic sensors

• Proficiency in developing algorithms for path planning, control, and localization

• Familiarity with hardware interfaces such as CAN, UART, and Ethernet

• Deep understanding of robotic kinematics, dynamics, and control systems

• Enthusiasm for creating innovative robotic systems that push the boundaries of technology and improve lives

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Robotics, Control Systems, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

• Experience with PX4, MAVLink, or other flight control systems

• Experience integrating software on proprietary robotics platforms

• Familiarity with network design and planning

• Familiarity with RTOS and real-time robotics performance optimization

• Previous experience in a startup environment or as a technical lead

• Willingness to obtain a U.S. Security clearance

Benefits

• Remote friendly

• Competitive pay

•  Flexible time off

• Generous PTO policy*

• Federal holidays*

• Health, dental, and vision insurance*

• Free OneMedical membership*

This is a 6-month contract-to-hire position with an expected compensation range of $100–$140 per hour, commensurate with your experience, portfolio, and ability to contribute to project success.

Know someone who might be interested? We offer a $1,000 referral bonus for candidates who are hired and complete 90 days of continuous full-time employment.

*These benefits apply following the initial contract period, assuming the contractor transitions to W2 full-time employment.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.