Robotics Technologist II

Jet Propulsion Laboratory; United States; On-site; USD 122,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California seeks a Robotics Technologist II to advance software, machine vision and deep learning for robotic and remote sensing systems. The role focuses on developing algorithms and software to simulate aerospace and planetary robotic platforms across missions, translating project needs into configurable simulation capabilities.

The ideal candidate has a STEM degree with robotics experience and hands-on proficiency in C, C++, and Python, plus knowledge of

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in CS/CE or related field with robotics experience.
• Master’s degree with 1+ year experience in related discipline.
• PhD in related discipline with minimal or no required experience.
• Hands-on experience in software, machine vision, deep learning, or robotics.
• Proficient in C, C++ and Python.
• Exposure to state estimation, mapping, deep learning and machine vision.
• Familiarity with real-time robotics and machine vision concepts such as localization, feature detection and tracking, optical flow, segmentation, structure from motion, state estimation and related skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Contact information for at least three professional reference writers.

Responsibilities

• Develop algorithms and software to simulate aerospace, planetary and robotic systems.
• Configure simulations to meet project needs and translate requirements into capabilities.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to support mission objectives.

Skills

Robotics experience

C, C++, Python

Hands-on software

Machine vision

Deep learning

Communication skills

Reference letters

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/CE or related

Master's degree in related discipline

PhD 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. Wanted: A Robotics Technologist II with skills in software, machine vision and deep learning as they apply to robotic systems or remote sensing. 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 simulation of aerospace, planetary and military robotic vehicles in support of JPL (and other) missions. The candidate would need to work with various projects and translate their needs to configure the simulation and support any additional capabilities that the project might need.

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline with a minimum of 3 years of Robotics experience
• or a Master’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 1 years of experience
• or Ph.D. in a related discipline with a minimum of 0 years of relevant experience
• Some hands‑on experience in software, machine vision, deep learning, or robotics
• Proficient in C, C++ and Python
• Exposure to algorithm development in areas such as state estimation, mapping, deep learning and machine vision
• Familiarity with real-time robotics and machine vision concepts such as localization, feature detection and tracking, optical flow, segmentation, structure from motion, state estimation and other robotic skills for motion estimation and planning
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to facilitate inter-team information flow and to support review of team products
• Contact information for at least three professional reference writers.

Desired Qualifications

• Development of software for embedded applications
• Experience (coursework or projects) applying deep learning to working robotic systems
• 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

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 typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California. $122,408 - $150,384

Equal Opportunity & Diversity

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.

Company History

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.