Robotics Engineer

Darwin Recruitment; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join an innovative firm at the forefront of robotics and defense technology as a Robotics SLAM Engineer. In this pivotal role, you will design and optimize cutting-edge localization and mapping algorithms for autonomous navigation in complex environments. Collaborate with top-tier engineers, engage in mission-driven work, and gain access to advanced hardware and simulation tools. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to national security initiatives while enjoying competitive compensation and equity packages. If you're passionate about robotics and eager to make a difference, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Competitive salary + equity package

Early-stage ownership

Access to live field tests

Work alongside world-class engineers

Qualifications

• Experience in designing and implementing SLAM algorithms.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python with ROS/ROS2 experience.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement real-time SLAM algorithms for autonomous navigation.
• Develop robust localization pipelines for GPS-denied environments.

Skills

SLAM algorithms (ORB-SLAM, Cartographer, RTAB-Map, Kimera)

C++

Python

ROS/ROS2

Sensor fusion (IMU, LiDAR, cameras)

Real-time systems

Embedded optimization

Education

M.S. in Robotics

Ph.D. in Robotics

M.S. in Computer Science

Ph.D. in Computer Science

Job description

As a Robotics SLAM Engineer, you’ll play a critical role in designing, implementing, and optimizing localization and mapping algorithms for real-time, autonomous navigation in highly dynamic and challenging environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement real-time SLAM algorithms (Visual, LiDAR, Multi-Sensor Fusion)

• Develop robust localization pipelines for GPS-denied, degraded visual environments

• Integrate SLAM systems into our autonomy stack, working closely with perception, controls, and hardware teams

• Optimize performance across embedded compute platforms (GPU, ARM)

• Conduct field testing, system validation, and failure analysis in simulation and real-world environments

• Support government R&D projects and collaborate with defense partners

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong experience in SLAM (e.g., ORB-SLAM, Cartographer, RTAB-Map, Kimera, etc.)

• Proficiency in C++ and Python; ROS/ROS2 experience preferred

• Deep understanding of sensor fusion (IMU, LiDAR, cameras)

• Experience with real-time systems and/or embedded optimization

• Familiarity with defense/military domain a plus (but not required)

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Robotics, Computer Science, or related field

• Must be a U.S. citizen and eligible for security clearance

Why Join Us?

• Mission-driven work in national security and defense autonomy

• Competitive salary + equity package

• Early-stage ownership and high technical autonomy

• Access to live field tests, novel hardware, and advanced simulation environments

• Work alongside world-class robotics, AI, and systems engineers

Ready to build the future of autonomous defense systems?

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

George Wiles