Robot Autonomy Engineer-Federal

Field AI; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

Equity

Generous time off

Job summary

Field AI in Irvine, CA is seeking a Robot Autonomy Engineer to lead the deployment and integration of their robotic systems in both federal and commercial sectors. You will manage system performance and work hands-on with teams to implement solutions based on field feedback.

This role requires a master's degree in a technical field, along with experience in robotics and systems integration. The position is fully onsite, emphasizing in-person collaboration for optimal performance.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in software engineering and systems integration.
• Experience in the field deployment of complex technical systems.
• Strong experience with real-world testing of robotic systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the deployment of autonomous systems in customer environments.
• Analyze field feedback to enhance systems reliability.
• Train customer teams for operational readiness.

Skills

Python

C++

Git

ROS

Troubleshooting

Debugging

Education

Master’s degree or higher in Robotics, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

Linux

Containerization technologies

Cloud infrastructure

Jira

Wrike

Confluence

Job description

About the Job

At Field AI, we build autonomous robotic systems that operate in demanding, real‑world environments where tight integration between hardware and software is critical. We’re looking for a Robot Autonomy Engineer to support testing, deployment, and integration of wheeled robotic platforms across both federal and commercial programs.

As a Robot Autonomy Engineer at Field AI, you’ll be at the forefront of bringing our autonomous systems to life in the real world, owning deployment, integration, and ongoing performance in the field. This role is equal parts engineering and problem‑solving. You’ll work hands‑on with both customers and our internal teams to ensure successful operations, rapidly incorporate field feedback to improve reliability and performance, and drive adoption so our systems become mission‑critical from day one. If you thrive in fast‑paced, high‑impact environments and want to see your work directly enable the future of autonomy, this is the role where you’ll make it happen.

This position is for our FieldAI Federal Team. This team works on projects connected to the U.S. government which requires U.S. Person eligibility. A U.S. Person as defined by 22 C.F.R §120.62 includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), refugee or asylee.

What You’ll Get To Do

• Field Deployment & Operations
  • Lead the end‑to‑end deployment of autonomous systems in customer environments.
  • Ensure systems are configured, tested, and operational under real‑world conditions.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues quickly to maintain uptime and mission success.
• System Reliability & Performance
  • Gather and analyze field feedback to identify areas for improvement.
  • Work closely with product and engineering teams to drive enhancements into the core system.
  • Implement monitoring and diagnostic tools to ensure sustained reliability.
• Customer Enablement & Adoption
  • Partner with customer teams to train and support operators in achieving operational readiness.
  • Translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable workflows.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to accelerate adoption and long‑term value realization.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration
  • Serve as the voice of the customer, bringing field insights back to engineering and product teams.
  • Collaborate across software, hardware, and AI research groups to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Contribute to building scalable deployment practices and playbooks for future rollouts.

What You Have

• Master’s degree or higher in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent practical experience).
• 2‑3 years of experience in software engineering, systems integration in the field robotics industry.
• Experience in field deployment of complex technical systems.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, Git, ROS.
• Familiarity with Linux‑based systems, containerization, and cloud infrastructure.
• Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills across software, hardware, and networking layers.
• Self‑starter mindset with the ability to thrive in ambiguous and rapidly changing environments.

The Extras That Set You Apart

• Experience deploying, operating, or maintaining mission‑critical systems in real‑world environments.
• Experience using Jira or Wrike or Confluence or other program management software tools.
• Ability to work directly with customers in high‑stakes, fast‑paced settings, translating needs into technical solutions.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non‑technical users.
• Willingness to travel and work on‑site with customers as needed.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $70,000–$120,000. The actual offer will be based on factors such as relevant experience, competencies, certifications, and how well the candidate meets the qualifications outlined above. Part of our compensation package also includes full benefits, equity, and generous time.

Field AI Onsite Work Philosophy

At Field AI, we believe the most effective way to collaborate and solve complex challenges is by working together in person. This is a fully onsite role, and candidates will be expected to work from our Irvine, CA office. In‑person engagement is essential to our success, and we offer flexible working hours to support focus and work‑life balance.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.