Principal Robotics Software Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Harwell; Hybrid; GBP 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a Principal Robotics Software Engineer to develop advanced software for autonomous underwater vehicles. This unique role involves leading the design and integration of software, focusing on cutting-edge robotics technology. Candidates should have a strong background in robotics, with a degree in a related field and extensive software development experience. The position offers £70,000 plus benefits, and is based in Harwell with hybrid working options.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in embedded systems, robotics software, or unmanned systems development.
• Strong expertise in software development for real-time systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, and development of software for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and ROVs.
• Guide the implementation of autonomy algorithms, including SLAM, path planning, and real-time obstacle avoidance.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for cohesive system integration.

Skills

C++

Python

ROS/ROS 2

machine learning

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics

Tools

Git/GitLab

Job description

Job Description

Principal Robotics Software Engineer | AUV’s | ROV’s | Harwell – Hybrid | £70,000pa plus share scheme & benefits:

A once in a lifetime opportunity has arisen for a passionate robotics Software Engineer to join a game changing company who has a pipeline of robotic AUV, ROV & UAV products which are going to be brought into existence and to market in the next couple of years.

If you’re passionate about robotics and the autonomous vehicle and unmanned vehicle industry, you honestly need to make contact with us, this one is not to be missed.

MARS is recruiting an experienced Principal Software Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of advanced software for next- underwater unmanned platforms. This role will play a pivotal part in driving autonomy, perception, and mission-critical software for submersible robotic systems. Candidates must be British or lived in the UK for 10 years, due to needing SC clearance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the architecture, design, and development of software for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), leveraging ROS/ROS 2 and other robotic middleware.
• Oversee integration of a wide array of sensors (e.g., sonar, cameras, Doppler velocity logs, IMUs) and actuators into robust, modular control frameworks.
• Guide the implementation of autonomy algorithms, including SLAM, path planning, adaptive control, and real-time obstacle avoidance.
• Direct the development of real-time systems for data acquisition, onboard processing, and underwater communication (acoustic, RF, optical).
• Drive testing and validation efforts, including hardware-in-the-loop simulations and live sea trials, ensuring robust performance in challenging marine environments.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including systems, mechanical, and electrical engineers—to ensure cohesive and reliable system integration.
• Maintain clear and concise documentation, and manage source control using tools like Git/GitLab.
• Contribute to proposal development, system-level design reviews, and strategic planning related to autonomous systems.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field .
• 8+ years of experience in embedded systems, robotics software, or unmanned systems development.
• Strong expertise in C++, Python, and software development for real-time systems.
• Experience with ROS or ROS 2, including custom nodes, launch files, and integration with hardware.
• Ability to work in field conditions, including support for field testing and sea deployments.

Experience:

• Experience in maritime, defence, or subsea robotics industries.
• Knowledge of machine learning, underwater SLAM, or AI for autonomy in constrained environments.
• Familiarity with underwater navigation, acoustic communications, and environmental sensing .
• Background in regulatory or classification compliance for unmanned marine vehicles.

If you’re passionate about both robotics, in particular autonomous vehicle and unmanned vehicle industry, and you love software engineering within this space, please get in touch ASAP.

MARS Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and positively welcomes applications from suitably qualified applicants regardless of , , , marital status, , , , , or any other protected status. Suitable candidates for the role will be contacted within 3 working days, unfortunately if you haven’t heard back in this time your application has been unsuccessful at this time

MARS Recruitment is a specialist Engineering & IT recruiter working in partnership with companies across the UK and offers services of both an Employment Business (for Temporary/Contract roles) and an Employment Agency (for Permanent roles).