Robotics Systems Engineer I

Jet Propulsion Laboratory; United States; On-site; USD 102,000 - 123,000; Full time

Job summary

Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California invites applications for a Robotics Systems Engineer I. The role focuses on developing algorithms and software to support flight-software-in-the-loop simulation, testing, and operator tools for aerospace and robotic vehicles.

You'll work on Moon Base simulation, space robotics integration, and Mars rover operations including Perseverance and Curiosity, collaborating with a multi-disciplinary team to validate command sequences before flight

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline with a minimum of 1 year of related work experience; Master’s degree in similar discipline areas.
• Relevant internship or other hands-on technical experience may be counted toward the experience requirement.
• Exposure to software development in areas such as simulation, modeling and 3D visualization.
• A minimum of a 3.0 GPA.
• Contact information for at least three professional reference writers.

Responsibilities

• Development simulation software for Moon Base program
• Maintain and develop operation tools for space robots
• Software and hardware integration to develop space robots
• Operation of Mars rovers, including Perseverance and Curiosity

Skills

Software development

Simulation

3D visualization

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering

Master’s degree in related discipline

Job description

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL. Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

Position Overview

Wanted: A Robotics Systems Engineer I with strong systems/simulation skills and experience in software development and operation for robotic systems as they apply to robotic systems for the Robotic Operations and Tools Group, which is part of the Robotic Mobility and Manipulation Section. The Robotics section develops, matures, and brings to space flight, robotics technology for in-situ exploration of the solar system. The Section also provides robotics expertise for space flight hardware and software implementation along with mission operations support.

Opportunity

To work with an enthusiastic multi-disciplinary workforce that originates and executes robotics technology development and space flight projects for terrestrial and planetary exploration applications. This role is focused on developing algorithms and software to support flight-software-in-the-loop simulation, testing, and operator tools for aerospace, planetary, and robotic vehicles; enabling human operators to safely validate and verify command sequences before they run on flight hardware.

What You’ll Do

• Development simulation software for Moon Base program
• Maintain and develop operation tools for space robots
• Software and hardware integration to develop space robots
• Operation of Mars rovers, including Perseverance and Curiosity

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline with a minimum of 1 year of related work experience; Master’s degree in similar discipline areas.
• Relevant internship or other hands‑on technical experience may be counted toward the experience requirement.
• Exposure to software development in areas such as simulation, modeling and 3D visualization.
• A minimum of a 3.0 GPA.
• Contact information for at least three professional reference writers.

Desired Qualifications

• Development of software for modeling and simulation of robots.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work in a team environment and learn from senior engineering staff.
• Understanding of applicable industry and/or academic practices and standards in software engineering.
• Experience with 3D visualization, operator interfaces, or command‑sequencing/telemetry tools for spacecraft or robotic operations.

Benefits and Perks

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work‑life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

Salary

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training. The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California. $102,232 - $123,136

EEO and Legal Disclosures

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law. In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. EEO is the Law. EEO is the Law Supplement Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here. Formed in 1936, the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federally funded research and development center managed for NASA by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech.) JPL joined NASA as an FFRDC when the agency was founded in 1958. JPL helped open the Space Age by developing America’s first Earth‑orbiting science satellite, creating the first successful interplanetary spacecraft, and sending robotic missions to the solar system. Today JPL continues its world‑leading innovation, implementing programs in planetary exploration, Earth science, space‑based astronomy and technology development while applying its capabilities to technical and scientific problems of national significance. Above all, we are explorers. At JPL we promote collaboration, innovation, integrity, and excellence in distinct academic areas. We turn ideas for science investigation into the reality of groundbreaking space missions, partnering with our strategic business teams to guide JPL into the future.