Staff Test Development Engineer - Software and Automation

Boston Dynamics; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision care

401(k)

Paid time off

Annual bonus

Job summary

Boston Dynamics is seeking a Staff Test Development Engineer to advance Atlas testing software and automation from research prototypes to reliable production-ready systems. You will architect and implement test tools, support verification across stands, and collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure scalable, robust robot software and hardware integration for real-world deployment.

The role requires 5+ years in software engineering for robotics, strong Python/C++ skills, Linux

Qualifications

• BS in CS/SE or equivalent and 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience integrating new mechatronic systems for real-world use.
• Strong interest in software interacting with robotic hardware.
• In-depth cross-disciplinary knowledge of electro-mechanical actuation subsystems or related tech.
• Proficiency in Python and/or C++ for debugging and scripting automation.

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, implement, deploy, and maintain new tools for our test framework, automation, and control strategies across all verification test stands including: configuration, diagnosis, calibration, data management, visualization, and user interaction.
• Debug, maintain and improve existing test systems.
• Take early R&D and prototype test benches, optimize their software stability, and adapt them for high-volume, repeatable manufacturing environments.
• Refactor existing test code to optimize test execution times, reduce false-fail rates, and ensure error handling is robust enough for factory operators.
• Hands-on test stand development, system design, execution, and analysis.

Skills

Python

C++

Linux

SQL/Databases

Scripting/Debugging

Education

BS Computer Science or Software Engineering or equivalent

Tools

LabVIEW

TestStand

Git

Arena

Enovia

Job description

Staff Test Development Engineer - Software & Automation

Location: Waltham, MA (Boston Dynamics HQ)

Department: Prototype Operation

About Boston Dynamics

Boston Dynamics is a global leader in robotics innovation, renowned for developing highly advanced, dynamic robots that excel in mobility, dexterity, and intelligence. Our cutting‑edge robots, including the iconic Atlas, Spot, and Stretch, are pushing the boundaries of automation and redefining how machines interact with the world. At Boston Dynamics, we blend advanced mechanical design, state‑of‑the‑art control systems, and AI‑driven perception to create robots capable of performing in unstructured, real‑world environments.

About The Role

We are looking for a talented Staff Test Development Engineer to support the Atlas program, helping to transform groundbreaking research prototypes into reliable, scalable systems for manufacturing and field deployment.

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, implement, deploy, and maintain new tools for our test framework, automation, and control strategies across all verification test stands including: configuration, diagnosis, calibration, data management, visualization, and user interaction.
• Debug, maintain and improve existing test systems.
• Take early R&D and prototype test benches, optimize their software stability, and adapt them for high‑volume, repeatable manufacturing environments.
• Refactor existing test code to optimize test execution times, reduce false‑fail rates, and ensure error handling is robust enough for factory operators.
• Hands‑on test stand development, system design, execution, and analysis.

Qualifications

• BS Computer Science, Software Engineering or equivalent and 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience in the integration and deployment of new, custom mechatronic systems for real‑world applications.
• Strong interest in working on software systems that interact with robotic hardware.
• In‑depth cross‑disciplinary knowledge of electro‑mechanical actuation subsystems or related tech that enables rapid learning.
• Proficiency in Python and/or C++ for debugging and scripting automation.
• Strong understanding of databases and SQL.
• Experience with Linux‑based systems and version control tools (e.g., Git).
• Familiarity with integrating cobots, robotic arms (e.g., Universal Robots, FANUC), or motion controllers/actuators with automated test fixtures.
• Strong communication and technical documentation skills.
• Self‑motivated and able to work in an ambiguous environment with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in robotics, aerospace, precision actuators, or high‑performance electromechanical systems.
• Experience with test executive frameworks (e.g., LabVIEW, TestStand).
• Experience with PLM systems such as Arena or Enovia for revision control and documentation management.
• Familiarity with SPC, yield tracking, or MES integration.
• Familiarity with PLC and Industrial automation programming.
• Familiarity with writing Firmware.
• Familiarity with camera calibration.

Compensation

The pay range for this position is between $115,000 to $145,000 annually. Base pay will depend on multiple individualized factors including, but not limited to internal equity, job related knowledge, skills and experience. This range represents a good faith estimate of compensation at the time of posting.

Benefits

Boston Dynamics offers a generous Benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401(k), paid time off and a annual bonus structure. Additional details regarding these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer for employment.