Robotics Engineer, Mobile Manipulation - NREC

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bus pass

Family concierge

Benefits package

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) seeks a roboticist to advance mobile manipulation systems. You will bridge research and production, turning advanced concepts into robust software deployed on real robots in logistics, manufacturing, and defense sectors.

You will collaborate with world-class robotics professionals, develop perception-driven control, and prototype for rapid deployment, with strong support for career growth within CMU’s robotics ecosystem.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or equivalent.
• 1–3 years combined graduate academic and professional software development experience
• Experience with 3D perception (LiDAR, stereo vision, RGB-D, point cloud processing)
• Strong C++ skills
• Linux development experience
• Knowledge of basic software engineering principles and technical communication

Responsibilities

• Developing algorithms for perception-aided control of manipulators on mobile robots for real world applications
• Prototyping in scripting languages
• Transitioning applications to deployment with production quality code
• Designing, developing, documenting, testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining software applications and integrated systems
• Interacting with sponsors for planning, application support, and reporting purposes
• Surveying literature and implementing innovative techniques to take on exciting problems
• Following protocols for team software development (peer reviews of designs and code, unit and system testing, version control, bug tracking, integrated documentation)
• Developing, documenting, and applying software system testing, troubleshooting, and verification procedures
• Collaboration with engineers with varied skills, including communication, co-design, and joint decision making

Skills

C++ programming

Robotics perception

Linux development

Education

B.S. in Computer Science or Engineering

Tools

OpenCV

PCL

ROS

Boost

Eigen

CUDA

Job description

• Strong C++ skills

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. Our technical staff collaborates closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.

We are seeking a motivated roboticist to help develop and deploy the next generation of mobile manipulation systems for real-world applications. You’ll bridge research and industry by transforming advanced robotic concepts into robust, production-ready technologies. The work emphasizes hands-on development, integration, and deployment of systems that combine perception, planning, and control to address impactful challenges in areas including logistics, manufacturing, and automated science. If you’re passionate about building real robots that make a measurable difference in the world, we’d love to hear from you.

Your Primary Responsibilities Are

• Developing algorithms for perception-aided control of manipulators on mobile robots for real world applications
• Prototyping in scripting languages
• Transitioning applications to deployment with production quality code
• Designing, developing, documenting, testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining software applications and integrated systems
• Interacting with sponsors for planning, application support, and reporting purposes
• Surveying literature and implementing innovative techniques to take on exciting problems
• Following protocols for team software development (peer reviews of designs and code, unit and system testing, version control, bug tracking, integrated documentation)
• Developing, documenting, and applying software system testing, troubleshooting, and verification procedures
• Collaboration with engineers with varied skills, including communication, co-design, and joint decision making

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or equivalent experience (M.S. or PhD is a bonus).
• 1-3 years combined graduate academic and professional software development experience
• Experience with 3D perception (LiDAR, stereo vision, RGB-D, point cloud processing)
• Knowledge of kinematics, dynamics, and control of manipulators
• Strong background in at least one of
  • Motion planning (MoveIt, OMPL, RRT*, etc.)
  • Grasp/manipulation planning or whole-body control
• Strong C++ skills
• Experience with scripting languages for quick prototyping of computer vision applications (Python or Matlab preferred)
• Linux development experience
• Knowledge of basic software engineering principles
• Technical communication skill
• Demonstrated success collaborating alongside a multi-functional team

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in any of the following areas:

• Sensor and robot calibration (stereo, hand-eye, multi-modal)
• Visual sensing
• Robot navigation, field robotics
• Reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or foundation models for robotics
• Visual/inertial odometry, mapping, or SLAM
• Familiarity with Gazebo, Isaac Sim, or Mujoco for simulation
• Knowledge of real-time control
• Real-world deployment, systems engineering
• Embedded systems or real time application development
• C++ Libraries such as OpenCV, PCL, ROS, Boost, Eigen
• CUDA programming

Other Requirements

• Successful pre-employment background check

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.

Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects?

Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Why NREC?

At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field.

NREC At a Glance

• Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies
• 30+ years of pioneering robotics research
• 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact
• Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy, which develops curricula and software for K–12 and college‑level students. You will also have opportunities to engage with these student groups through outreach activities.

As part of our team, you will have the flexibility to grow your career - whether becoming a technical expert, leading projects, mentoring others, or exploring new pathways and making an impact in developing technologies that drive progress, improve safety and transform industries.

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well‑deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.