Staff Software Engineer

As an Staff Autonomy Engineer, you will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and refining the behavioral architecture for Apptronik’s humanoid robots. Your work will empower these robots to execute autonomous tasks reliably and effectively in industrial and real-world settings.

You will leverage advanced behavior authoring tools such as state machines and behavior trees, combining them with AI/ML policies and classical planning algorithms. The role involves extensive collaboration across teams, including perception, motion controls, planning, fleet management, and UI, to ensure the integration of all autonomy components into a cohesive and functional system.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Lead Autonomy Development: Drive the design, implementation, and refinement of a cutting-edge behavior architecture for humanoid robots, enabling them to perform industrial tasks autonomously at scale.
• Architect System Frameworks: Define and implement high-level system frameworks for autonomous behavior, focusing on scalability, reliability, and integration with other robotic subsystems.
• Mentor and Guide Teams: Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation within the autonomy team.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with perception, motion controls, planning, fleet management, and UI teams to ensure seamless integration of autonomy components across the robotics stack.
• Innovate in AI/ML Integration: Lead the development of frameworks that combine classical algorithms with cutting-edge AI/ML policies for task execution.
• Pioneer New Applications: Drive the development of advanced robotic behaviors, such as adaptive manipulation, multi-robot coordination, and robust human-robot interaction, for customer use cases and demonstrations.
• System Validation and Testing: Oversee rigorous testing and validation processes, including extensive unit and integration tests, to ensure the reliability of autonomous behaviors before deployment.
• Shape Product Roadmap: Collaborate with stakeholders to align autonomy development with business objectives and customer needs, influencing the roadmap for Apptronik’s humanoid robots.

 SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Expertise in designing and implementing behavior authoring methods (e.g., Behavior Trees, State Machines).
• Proven ability to lead complex software development efforts, from architecture through deployment.
• Strong understanding of robotics fundamentals, including advanced kinematics, dynamics, control theory, and planning algorithms.
• Proficiency in modern C++ and object-oriented programming within Linux environments.
  • Experience with CI/CD tools (e.g., Git, Jenkins) and a commitment to best practices in testing and documentation.
  • Deep familiarity with simulation environments and real-world validation processes.
• Demonstrated success in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to achieve seamless system integration.
• Ability to balance technical execution with long-term strategic goals, driving innovations that align with company objectives.
• Exceptional ability to communicate complex ideas and technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences, including executives, peers, and customers.
• A deep commitment to solving meaningful problems in robotics and contributing to technology that impacts society positively.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of demonstrated success in developing and deploying autonomous behaviors on robot hardware, with a preference for experience in legged robots or humanoids.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
• Hearing and speech to communicate

Perks:

• Competitive salary w/ benefits
• Highly motivating equity incentive package
• Flexible work hours policy
• Professional development opportunities
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 401k plan