UI/UX Software Engineer - NREC

6AM City, LLC; False Pass (AK); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) seeks a UI/UX Software Engineer to design and implement user interfaces for robotic systems. You will collaborate with robotics engineers, hardware teams, and operators to create intuitive, task-focused interfaces that help operators control complex machines.

You will build native Qt/QML frontends connected to C++ or Python backends, prototype with real users, and participate in code reviews and API integration.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Science, HCI, Design, or equivalent practical experience.
• Hands-on experience building modern, responsive UIs with Qt/QML.
• Ability to connect QML frontends to backends (signals/slots, PySide6/PyQt or async data).
• User-centered mindset translating feedback into clear visual layouts.
• Teamwork and communication in cross-functional, multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency with Git and participating in peer reviews.
• Curiosity about how hardware works and bridging operators to machines.

Responsibilities

• Co-Design Human-Machine Interfaces with robotics engineers, hardware teams, and operators.
• Build native Qt/QML frontends bound to backend data streams.
• Prototype & test with real users to evaluate usability and safety.
• Integrate real-time system data and telemetry into UI components.
• Champion collaborative software development with peers and reviews.
• Integrate & adapt open-source libraries and APIs for UI features.
• Cross-functional field testing with robotic hardware and teams.

Skills

Qt / QML

C++

Python

Frontend-Backend integration

User-centered design

Git version control

Teamwork & communication

Adaptability

Education

B.S. in Computer Science, HCI, or Design

Tools

Git

Qt Design Studio

ROS / ROS 2

Job description

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. The members of our technical staff collaborate closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.

We are seeking a dynamic UI/UX Software Engineer for existing and new projects. In this position, you will work on a variety of user interfaces for robotic systems. You will have an opportunity to collaborate on an internal team and with sponsoring partners to support the work through all lifecycle stages. Our team has members with diverse backgrounds both in robotics and other industries aligned to make robust software and firmware that is useful in the world. Projects you may support range from industrial machine operator assist systems to agricultural productivity tools and beyond to other automation, autonomy, or safety systems. Your day-to-day work will include developing user interfaces for internal and external usage centered around robotic systems.

Your primary responsibilities include:

• Co-Design Human-Machine Interfaces: Partner closely with robotics engineers, hardware teams, and field operators to design custom, intuitive interfaces for complex robotic systems.
• Build Native Qt/QML Frontends: Develop fluid, hardware-accelerated user interfaces using QML and/or Qt, binding them smoothly to backend C++ or Python data streams.
• Prototype & Test with Real Users: Prototype interaction flows and collaborate directly with end-users to evaluate usability, safety, and operator performance in the field.
• Integrate Real-Time System Data: Connect UI components to central system state engines, telemetry feeds, and databases while ensuring the interface remains fast and responsive.
• Champion Collaborative Software Development: Actively participate in an inclusive team culture through constructive peer reviews of both designs and code, integration testing, version control, and clear documentation.
• Integrate & Adapt APIs: Adapt open-source libraries, proprietary tools, and backend APIs to extend UI capabilities cleanly and maintainably.
• Cross-Functional Field Testing: Validate and refine interfaces through hands-on testing with both simulated environments and physical robotic hardware alongside the broader engineering team.

Required Qualifications:

• Education & Experience: B.S. in Computer Science, HCI, Design, or equivalent practical experience, with 1-3+ years of combined academic or professional software development experience.
• Qt / QML Proficiency: Hands-on experience building modern, responsive user interfaces using QML and/or Qt.
• Frontend-to-Backend Integration: Understanding of how to connect QML frontends to application backends (via C++ signals/slots, PySide6/PyQt, or async data handlers).
• User-Centered Mindset: Ability to translate user feedback, operational workflows, and rough sketches/wireframes into clear, functional visual layouts.
• Teamwork & Communication: Strong interpersonal and technical communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to thrive in a cross-functional, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Core Engineering Standards: Proficiency with Git version control, writing clean code, and participating in peer code/design reviews.
• Adaptability & Curiosity: Enthusiasm for learning how physical hardware works and bridging the gap between human operators and complex machines.

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in ANY of the following areas:

• Experience designing for touch pendants, handheld controllers, or embedded/cyber-physical systems.
• Experience with robotics frameworks or tools (ROS / ROS 2, Gazebo, or 3D telemetry visualization).
• Experience conducting usability interviews or observing end-users operating hardware in the field.
• Exposure to Python, backend development, or database integration.
• Familiarity with graphic design tools (Figma, Adobe XD, GIMP, or Photoshop) or Qt Design Studio.
• Experience with Android development or embedded Linux deployment.

Other Requirements:

• Successful pre-employment background check

This position will require work on a