Robotics Software Engineer
The Robotics Software Engineer at Confidential Client develops advanced perception and control software for autonomous robotic rovers used in space and defense applications. This role involves designing and implementing algorithms for sensor fusion, navigation, hazard detection, and embedded system optimization to support mission-critical autonomous operations. The position is based in Pittsburgh, PA, and contributes to pioneering technologies that advance national security and space exploration.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Defense and Space Manufacturing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking a Robotics Software Engineer to design and implement perception and autonomy software for planetary and surface robotic platforms. In this role you will:
- Design, develop, and maintain perception software for autonomous rovers and robotic spacecraft.
- Implement stereo vision and LiDAR algorithms for visual-inertial odometry (VIO), hazard detection and avoidance (HDA), mapping, and localization.
- Build sensor-fusion pipelines that combine camera, LiDAR, IMU, RF, and navigation measurements.
- Implement feature detection, image registration, optical flow, and point-cloud processing pipelines.
- Design kinematics-informed motion control, path planning, and behavior control systems for surface vehicles.
- Optimize robotics software for embedded ARM processors and heterogeneous compute platforms (GPUs, FPGAs).
- Integrate algorithms into flight software and embedded architectures.
- Develop simulation tools and sensor models for algorithm development and validation.
- Create automated testing frameworks including software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) verification.
Minimum Qualifications
- BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Aerospace, or a related field.
- 2+ years of hands-on experience developing algorithms for real-world robotics or perception problems; advanced degrees may substitute for experience.
- Practical experience in modern C++ and Python.
Preferred Qualifications
- MS or PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or related field.
- Experience shipping production software in a Linux environment.
- Background in sensor processing, robotics, and guidance, navigation & control (GNC) systems.
- Field-testing and troubleshooting experience on full robotic systems.
- Technical knowledge of perception algorithms: computer vision, 3D point-cloud processing, state estimation, sensor fusion, SLAM.
- Experience with camera, LiDAR, radar, IMU, and GNSS sensor modalities.
- Familiarity with GIS concepts: spatial transforms, map projections, and digital elevation models (DEMs).
- Experience training and deploying deep learning models for perception or autonomy tasks.
Compensation & Benefits
- Good faith base salary range: $110,000–$160,000 (base pay only; placement in range depends on experience, skills, and location).
- Flexible Time Off (FTO).
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage with substantial employer support.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Wellness programs, gym membership options, and additional voluntary benefits.
- Opportunity to work on mission-driven projects with a talented technical team.
Requirements & Compliance
- This role is based in Pittsburgh, PA — work location and travel requirements will be shared during the process.
- To comply with U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR/EAR), applicants must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) and be eligible for required export authorizations.
- Confidential Client and Careertakes are committed to reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please notify us.
Why Join
- Work on high-impact robotics and autonomy systems in the Defense and Space Manufacturing industry.
- Solve challenging perception and navigation problems spanning simulation to field deployment.
- Influence system architecture, validation approaches, and the roadmap for next-generation robotic platforms.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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