Software Engineering Manager, Motion Planning

Picklerobot; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Unlimited vacation

401(k) contributions (5% of salary)

Job summary

Picklerobot is looking for a seasoned Software Engineering Manager in Motion Planning to lead the robotics motion software team. This role involves mentoring engineers, setting technical vision, and ensuring the team's success in delivering innovative solutions in warehouse automation.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in robotics, including software development and management, and a passion for cutting-edge robotics technology.

Qualifications

• 5 years in robotics software development with 2 years in a management role.
• Knowledge of motion planning and controls techniques is a plus.
• Excellent communication and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and manage motion planning software engineers.
• Set vision and technical leadership for the team.
• Participate in design reviews and algorithm development.

Skills

Robotics software development

C++

Python

Robotic frameworks (e.g., ROS)

Motion planning techniques

Simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo)

Cross-functional collaboration

Job description

About this role

Software Engineering Manager, Motion Planning in Pickle Robot seeks a seasoned leader to expand our motion planning team and scale best-in-class robotics motion software for warehouse automation. You’ll oversee a team of Motion Planning Software Engineers, guiding efforts to build algorithms that enable our robotic arms to manipulate and unload packages quickly and safely. This leadership role focuses on team mentorship, growth, and driving motion planning innovation from concept to production in fast-paced, real-world logistics environments.

Responsibilities

• Mentor, manage, and grow a team of motion planning software engineers.
• Foster technical and professional development through code reviews, coaching, and regular 1:1s.
• Set high-level vision and provide technical leadership for the motion planning team.
• Work with product management and engineering leadership to align engineering direction with product roadmap.
• Ensure robust, safe, and high-performing behaviors both in simulation and on real robots.
• Participate in design reviews, algorithm development, and deep-dive troubleshooting of critical issues.
• Own the team’s output and ensure the team’s success as the company grows.

Qualifications

• 5 years of experience in robotics software development, with at least two years in a people management role.
• Knowledge of motion planning and controls techniques for robotic manipulators and AMRs (e.g. RRT, MPC, trajectory optimization) is a plus.
• Proficient in C++ and Python, with experience using ROS or other robotic frameworks.
• Familiarity with simulation tools (Gazebo, Isaac Sim, etc.) strongly preferred.
• Excellent mentor and communicator, adept at cross-functional collaboration.
• Adaptable, curious, and eager to stay ahead of robotics research.
• Passionate about leading real-world robotics innovation.
• Willing and able to work from our Charlestown, MA office at least three times per week.

Pay

At Pickle Robot Company, we believe transparency builds trust. The salary range listed here is provided in accordance with Massachusetts law and reflects what we reasonably and in good faith expect to offer for this role. We often consider candidates at different levels of seniority, and final compensation will reflect the level at which a candidate is hired, along with factors like experience and location.

Benefits

Pickle provides best-in-class benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance; unlimited vacation, along with all federal and state holidays; 401(k) contributions of 5% of your salary, travel supplies, and other items to make your working life more fun, comfortable, and productive.