Sr. Marine Robotic Research Engineer

OSI Engineering; San Jose (CA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

A global research institute is seeking a Senior Marine Robotics Research Engineer to lead strategic R&D initiatives and validate next-gen autonomous marine systems. This influential role bridges research and production, influencing technology direction while collaborating globally. Success requires extensive experience, a strong robotics skillset, and leadership capabilities in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Child care support

Paid maternity leave

Paid paternity leave

Qualifications

• 10+ years in robotics, systems engineering, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of robotics systems and autonomy.
• Prior leadership experience in a technical capacity.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute forward-looking research strategies for marine autonomy.
• Serve as the technical lead and mentor for an agile team.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with internal R&D teams.

Skills

Robotics systems

Autonomy

Leadership

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

ROS or ROS2

Motion planning

Control algorithms

Strong communication

Education

Master's degree in Robotics Engineering

Master's degree in Naval Engineering

Master's degree in Machine Learning

Master's degree in Computer Science

Job description

4 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by OSI Engineering. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$180,000.00/yr - $195,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from OSI Engineering

A global research institute is seeking a Senior Marine Robotics Research Engineer to lead strategic R&D initiatives and real-world validation for next-generation autonomous marine systems. This role is central to Honda’s long-term vision for marine autonomy, bridging early-stage research and future production. You’ll work at the intersection of robotics, mobility, and marine innovation, directly influencing technology direction and collaborating with global teams.

Responsibilities:

• Define and execute forward-looking research strategies for marine autonomy in alignment with long-term product and business goals.
• Serve as the technical lead and mentor for a small, agile team — guiding project direction and providing hands-on support when needed.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with internal R&D, design, and production teams in Japan to facilitate technology transfer.
• Participate in industry, academic, and government collaborations focused on marine systems innovation.
• Conduct applied research in marine robotics: perception, localization, mapping, control, and motion planning.
• Support simulation and real-world prototyping, including ocean trials and system-level testing.
• Own the development of documentation and communication materials — from internal reports to research publications and strategic presentations.
• Make resource and project-level decisions — including what to build in-house vs. outsource — to keep progress aligned and efficient.

Required Skillset:

• 10+ years of industry experience in robotics, systems engineering, or related fields (5–10 years may be considered with exceptional qualifications).
• Strong understanding of robotics systems and autonomy, including marine or mobility applications.
• Prior leadership experience in a technical or strategic capacity, including mentoring junior engineers.
• Hands-on experience with:
• Python, MATLAB, C/C++
• ROS or ROS2
• Familiarity with motion planning, control algorithms, and robotics software stacks.
• Ability to operate across Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) — particularly TRL 3–4, bridging concept to functional prototype.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to translate research into actionable proposals and influence stakeholders.
• Comfortable with hands-on tasks in a startup-style environment — flexibility and humility are key.
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills; must be able to “sell” ideas internally and guide cross-functional alignment.
• Master’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Naval Engineering, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Machine Learning, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Willingness to travel and work overtime as needed for project execution.

Bonus Skillset:

• Background in marine autonomy or direct experience with USVs.
• Experience with machine learning, LLMs, or AI-driven robotics.
• Strong mathematical foundations including system modeling, system identification, and control theory.
• Experience navigating high-risk field-testing environments (i.e. ocean-based trials).
• Personal or professional experience with safety-critical hobbies or systems (i.e. aviation, racing, boating) is viewed favorably.

Location: San Jose, CA (Hybrid, 2-3 days onsite but dependent on project needs).

Salary Range: $180,000k - $195,000k

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Engineering and Research

• Industries

  Motor Vehicle Manufacturing

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at OSI Engineering by 2x

Inferred from the description for this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Child care support

Paid maternity leave

Paid paternity leave

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