Autonomous Robotics Research Engineer (AI & Navigation)

New Zealand Government; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 68,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Canterbury is inviting applications for a Research Engineer to join the Computer Science and Software Engineering team in Christchurch. The role focuses on autonomous robotics, AI navigation, and software engineering for ground-, aerial-, and underwater platforms.

You will develop cutting-edge algorithms, integrate open-source autopilot software, and document code and procedures. Collaboration with university partners and mentorship by Professor Richard Green are integral to

Qualifications

• A PhD in Computer Science (NZQA Level 10) in the field of Computer Vision and at least 10 years relevant industry experience.
• Extensive experience as a Software Engineer or Developer Programmer, specifically writing, maintaining, and testing complex program code (e.g., C++, Python, ROS/ROS2)
• A strong track record of writing and maintaining technical program documentation and operational procedures.
• Expertise and experience in using AI approaches for automating navigation and tool use on aerial drones, underwater drones and other platforms
• Strong quantitative and data analysis skills
• A publication track record as well as experience with preparation and delivery of quality oral presentations to a wide range of audiences is essential
• A proven ability to communicate complex ideas and concepts (both orally and in writing) to a wide variety or groups including scientific and non-scientific audiences
• The ability to work creatively and independently.

Responsibilities

• Participate in a research project, autonomously using tools on robot platforms (ground-based, aerial, underwater).
• Research, implement, and evaluate AI approaches for autonomous navigation and tool use.
• Bridge academic research and rigorous software engineering.
• Develop algorithms for robotic manipulators, navigation, computer vision, control, and sensor fusion.
• Identify limitations in autonomous frameworks and design software strategies to overcome them.
• Write, maintain, and document program code to meet system designs and technical specifications for ground-based, aerial, and underwater platforms.
• Integrate, extend, and customize open-source autopilot platforms (ArduPilot, PX4).
• Test, debug, diagnose, and correct errors in code and in high-fidelity simulation environments (Unreal Engine, SITL/HITL).
• Write, update, and maintain technical program and end-user documentation; provide guidance in software design strategies.
• Collaborate with Professor Richard Green and UC team; coordinate with Auckland University.

Skills

C++

Python

ROS/ROS2

Software development

Technical documentation

AI navigation

Publications

Public speaking

Communication

Independent work

Education

PhD in Computer Science

Job description

The University of Canterbury is inviting applications for a Research Engineer to join the Computer Science and Software Engineering team in Christchurch. The role focuses on autonomous robotics, AI navigation, and software engineering for ground-, aerial-, and underwater platforms.

You will develop cutting-edge algorithms, integrate open-source autopilot software, and document code and procedures. Collaboration with university partners and mentorship by Professor Richard Green are integral to