Applied Research Associates Inc

Principal Robotics Engineer

Applied Research Associates Inc • $130K — $155K *
San Antonio, TX 78228In-Person
Consumer Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • 12+ years of experience in robotics software engineering
  • Expert-level proficiency in modern C++ (C++11/14/17 or higher)
  • Experience with simulation environments like Gazebo, Unity, or Unreal Engine
  • Strong analytical skills for troubleshooting hardware and software issues

Responsibilities

  • Design and optimize real-time C++ code for embedded systems
  • Create and maintain virtual models and simulations for testing robotic systems
  • Develop software frameworks and algorithms for robotic subsystem integration
  • Analyze simulation and hardware data to improve performance
  • Validate and refine algorithms before physical deployment

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on innovative robotics projects
  • On-site position fostering collaboration in San Antonio, TX
  • Engagement with cutting-edge technologies and methods
  • Potential for working on military projects with national security implications
Full Job Description
ARA's Engineering Science Division is seeking a highly skilled and innovative principal robotics engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in C++ development coupled with experience in robotics. This role involves developing robust C++ software for virtual simulation.

This is an on-site position located in San Antonio, TX.

U.S. citizenship is required. Candidates selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

What you will do as a principal robotics engineer:

  • Design, implement, and optimize high-performance, real-time C++ code for embedded systems, robotics control, and simulation infrastructure.
  • Create, maintain, and optimize virtual models and simulation environments to test, validate, and refine robotic systems and algorithms before physical deployment.
  • Develop software frameworks (e.g., ROS/ROS2) and algorithms for controlling and integrating various robotic subsystems, including sensors, motor controllers, and actuators.
  • Analyze data from both simulations and physical hardware to optimize performance and debug system behavior.


Principal robotics engineer requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 12+ years of experience. Advanced degree may serve in partial fulfillment of the experience requirement.
    • Expert-level proficiency in modern C++ (C++11/14/17 or higher) for embedded and real-time systems.
    • Demonstrated experience in robotics software development, including motion planning, perception, and control systems.
    • Experience developing or working with simulation environments (e.g., Gazebo, Unity, Unreal Engine) for robotics applications.
    • Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose issues across complex hardware and software systems.


Preferred experience:

  • Familiarity with unmanned Navy systems.
  • Portfolio showcasing hands-on projects involving C++ programming, robotics, and PCB design.


About Applied Research Associates Inc

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned research and engineering company that provides technical solutions to complex problems in various fields, including defense, homeland security, intelligence, transportation, and energy. The company was founded in 1979 and is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM. ARA has over 1,600 employees and operates from more than 20 locations across the United States and Canada. The company's services include research and development, engineering, testing and evaluation, and consulting.
Learn more about Applied Research Associates Inc
Size
1,600 employees
Industry
Aerospace & Defense
Founded
1979
* Ladders Estimates

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