Carnegie Mellon University

Software Engineer/ Senior Software Engineer, Robotics - NREC

Carnegie Mellon University$80K — $120K *
Consumer Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or equivalent experience.
  • 1 - 5 years of professional/research experience in software development, systems integration, or robotics.
  • Understanding of basic software engineering concepts and practices.
  • Proficiency in C++ for robust software development.
  • Experience with Python for quick application prototyping.
  • Familiarity with Linux development environments.
  • Strong organizational, planning, and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

  • Design, write, and maintain high-performance code for robotic applications.
  • Drive software lifecycle through systematic analysis and performance optimization.
  • Leverage simulation tools for synthetic data generation and testbed creation.
  • Collaborate with hardware engineers and experts to convert complex requirements into software solutions.
  • Ensure interoperability through hands-on integration for software and hardware.
  • Conduct rigorous code reviews and maintain code quality via CI/CD practices.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
  • Tuition benefits for ongoing education.
  • Ample paid time off and observed holidays.
  • Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass and fitness center access.
Full Job Description

We are seeking a motivated roboticist to help develop and deploy the next generation of mobile manipulation systems for real-world applications. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and innovative setting. In this role, you will bridge research and industry by transforming advanced robotic concepts into robust, production-ready technologies, ensuring our team delivers exceptional and ground breaking results. The work emphasizes hands-on development, integration, and deployment of systems that combine perception, planning, and control to address impactful challenges in areas including logistics, manufacturing, and automated science. If you are passionate about building real robots that make a measurable difference in the world, we would love to hear from you.

Your primary responsibilities are to:

  • Hands-on real-time SW development: Design, write, and maintain clean, high-performance, and robust code to advance and mature our software stack in robotic applications.

  • Systematic Performance Maturation: Drive the iterative software lifecycle by conducting systematic analysis, profiling, and benchmarking to identify bottlenecks and optimize system performance.

  • Simulation & Testbed Generation: Leverage advanced simulation tools to generate high-fidelity synthetic data and architect complex testbed scenarios for software validation.

  • Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Thrive in a multidisciplinary environment, working closely with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and domain experts to translate complex physical requirements into scalable software solutions.

  • System Integration & Testing: Actively participate in hands-on integration work, ensuring seamless interoperability between software components and hardware systems.

  • Iterative Design & Code Quality: Participate in rigorous code reviews, documentation, and continuous integration (CI/CD) practices to maintain high engineering standards across the existing codebase.

Required Qualifications:

  • B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or equivalent experience.

  • 1 - 5 years of professional or research experience in software development, systems integration, or robotics. (Leveling and title will be determined based on depth of experience: 1–3 years for Software Engineer / 3–5+ years for Senior).

  • Demonstrated understanding and basic use of software engineering concepts, practices, and procedures.

  • Proficient C++ skills.

  • Solid technical communication skills, demonstrated success working as part of a cross-functional team.

  • Experience with Python for quick prototyping of applications.

  • Linux development experience.

  • Effective organizational, planning, and analytical skills

  • Ability to effectively interact with a multifaceted population of internal and external partners

  • Ability to work on multiple projects at the same time

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

  • Experience with ROS2/Move-it middleware and development frameworks.

  • Experience with robot manipulators kinematic analysis and trajectory optimizations to maximize operational throughput and efficiency.

  • Advance use of simulation environments such as Gazebo, Isaac Sim, or MuJoCo for robotic applications development and testing.

  • Experience with robust fleet communication protocols, multi-robot behavior, motion planning and coordination to design efficient and robust dispatching systems.

  • Real-world deployment, systems engineering.

  • Embedded systems or real time application development.

  • Proficiency leveraging AI tools to develop robust software solutions.

Other Requirements:

  • Successful pre-employment background check

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.

Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects?

Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.

At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your deployed in the field.

NRECat a Glance:

  • Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies

  • 30+ years of pioneering robotics research

  • 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact

  • Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its , which develops curricula and software for K–12 and college-level students. You will also have opportunities to engage with these student groups through outreach activities.

As part of our team, you will have the flexibility to grow your career - whether becoming a technical expert, leading projects, mentoring others, or exploring new pathways and making an impact in developing technologies that drive progress, improve safety and transform industries.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; its about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Software/Applications Development/Engineering

Position Type

Staff 6 Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information:

  • Please visit  to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click to view a listing of employee benefits

About Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university that was founded in 1900. The university is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and is known for its programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts. Carnegie Mellon has a diverse student body and offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields. The university has a strong focus on research and has partnerships with a number of companies and organizations. Carnegie Mellon is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States.
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