Robotics R&D Program Manager — Physical AI & 3D Perception

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 140,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas, seeks a senior Robotics leader to join the Intelligent Systems Division and drive advanced robotics projects. You will lead development of Physical AI and robotic applications with vision-language-action 3D perception and complex surface reconstruction.

Responsibilities include business development for new robotic capabilities, strong project management, and technical leadership delivering cutting‑edge solutions for government and commercial

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor, Master or PhD in Robotics, Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, or other robotics-related engineering degree.
• 10–20 years of relevant industry experience in robotic systems R&D in manufacturers, robotics companies, or integrators.
• 2–5 years of ROS experience; strong software skills in C++ or Python; strong communication; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Communicate effectively with internal teams, clients, and partners.
• Design, build, debug and implement robotic and automation solutions using software skills.
• Lead technical role, project management, and customer engagement.

Skills

C++

Python

Robotics

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Robotics or related engineering degree

Tools

ROS

Job description

Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas, seeks a senior Robotics leader to join the Intelligent Systems Division and drive advanced robotics projects. You will lead development of Physical AI and robotic applications with vision-language-action 3D perception and complex surface reconstruction.

Responsibilities include business development for new robotic capabilities, strong project management, and technical leadership delivering cutting‑edge solutions for government and commercial