About the role - 39110 - Senior Embodied AI Engineer (Centennial, Colorado)

Orica is seeking a highly skilled Senior Embodied AI Engineer with deep expertise in field robotics, machine vision and machine learning, vision-language-action (VLA) models, system integration, and sensor fusion to lead the deployment of mobile robotic platforms into real-world field environments. This role focuses on end-to-end autonomy system architecture, hardware-software integration, and robust ROS2 middleware implementation for production-grade mobile robots.

The successful candidate will bridge low-level embedded systems and high-level robotic autonomy stacks, ensuring reliable performance in challenging field conditions.

This is a hybrid position is based in our Centennial, Colorado office

What you will be doing

1. ROS2 System Integration

Develop and maintain ROS2-based robotic systems, including nodes, lifecycle management, and launch configurations.
Integrate navigation, localization, perception, and control subsystems.
Configure middleware, diagnostics, logging, and secure communications.

2. State Estimation & Sensor Fusion

Design and optimize sensor fusion solutions using IMU, GNSS, odometry, LiDAR, and cameras.
Develop localization and SLAM capabilities for GPS-denied environments.
Support mapping, relocalization, and navigation system performance.

3. Perception System Design

Develop perception solutions for obstacle detection, terrain analysis, and environmental awareness.
Optimize real-time performance on embedded and edge computing platforms.
Support deployment of AI/ML models and simulation environments for autonomous system development.

4. Field Deployment & Validation

Lead system integration, testing, and validation for field deployments.
Conduct HIL and system-level testing and troubleshoot integration issues.
Establish reliability standards, performance benchmarks, and validation procedures.

5. Embedded Systems Architecture

Design and integrate embedded hardware and software for robotic platforms.
Interface sensors, actuators, and communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, Ethernet).
Optimize system performance, reliability, and power efficiency.

6. Cross-Functional Leadership

Collaborate with R&D, engineering, delivery, and operations teams.
Provide technical guidance across robotics and autonomy systems.
Mentor engineers and contribute to long-term technology strategy.

7. Technology & Innovation

Foster innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Promote Orica's Charter and Values while supporting an inclusive and high-performing culture.
Share knowledge and build strong partnerships across teams.

8. Data Governance

Ensure compliance with data governance, cybersecurity, and SDLC standards.

What you will bring

Experience and Qualifications

• Masters or higher degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field.
• Multiple years of experience in embedded systems development.
• Strong proficiency in Python and C/C++ for embedded and Linux-based systems.
• Extensive experience with ROS2.
• Experience integrating sensors (LiDAR, IMU, GNSS, cameras) and motor control systems.
• Solid understanding of real-time systems and communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet).
• Experience with Linux-based embedded platforms (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson, NXP, STM32, TI, etc.).
• Proven experience deploying robotic systems in production or field environments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• Sim to Real
• VLM or VLA
• Experience with mobile robot navigation stacks.
• Knowledge of SLAM, localization, and sensor fusion pipelines.
• Experience with containerisation (Docker) for robotics.
• Cybersecurity practices for embedded/robotic systems.
• Experience with computer vision and robotics model development.
• Experience with field robotics in harsh outdoor environments.

How and When to Apply

If interested in this role, please apply at www.orica.com/careers to Job Requisition 39110

Application Deadline: August 1, 2026

What we offer

As part of a truly global company, you will have the ability to grow and learn in a diverse, collaborative culture. We foster relationships and learning through connected global and local teams, promote flexible and diverse career paths and support the development of your knowledge and skills.

You will be paid a competitive salary, learn from talented individuals across multiple disciplines and be able to thrive in a safe workplace within a collaborative culture. Ignite your career at a place where your distinct potential can find its home.

Compensation Range
• $130,000.00 - $150,000.00 USD per year
• Eligible for annual short-term incentive plan

(Salary to be determined by the applicant's experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.)

Benefits
• Medical/Prescription Drug - Three (3) plans to choose from
• Dental - Two (2) plans to choose from
• Vision - Two (2) plans to choose from
• Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Basic Employee Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Voluntary Employee/Dependent Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Company provided Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Company provided Employee Assistance Program
• Voluntary Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness & Accident Plans
• Voluntary Identity Theft Protection
• Voluntary Legal Plan
• 401(k) + Company Match
• Company provided Maternity Leave
• Company provided Bonding Leave
• Accrued Paid Time Off
• Paid Sick & Safe Time
• Nine (9) Scheduled Holidays + Two (2) Floating Holidays