Sr. Software Engineer - Real-Time Controls

Synthesia

$120K — $150K *
Consumer Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in robotics software development
  • Strong modern C++ and OOP skills
  • Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals including kinematics and controls
  • Comfortable with CMake and ROS2 workspaces
  • Experience in hardware-in-the-loop or simulation-based testing
  • Familiar with software testing methodologies and version control systems
  • Strong communication skills with knowledge of Agile processes

Responsibilities

  • Deliver production-grade real-time C++ software infrastructure
  • Integrate firmware data with high-level controls logic
  • Implement and tune state estimation and diagnostic monitors
  • Characterize and improve robot kinematics and actuation
  • Integrate learned policies into the real-time controls stack
  • Perform root-cause analysis for hardware-software issues
  • Develop API for controls and autonomy systems

Benefits

  • Direct hire position with no agency involvement
  • Opportunity to work on advanced robots in human environments
  • Engagement in full project lifecycle from conception to completion
  • Chance to contribute to innovative technology in robotics
  • Collaborative work environment aligned with core values of curiosity and creativity
Full Job Description
JOB SUMMARYAs a Senior Software Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the development of advanced, general-purpose robots designed to operate in human environments and work with human tools. This position demands a high degree of ownership and responsibility, driving projects from conception through to completion, ensuring that Apptronik's robots perform precisely and reliably in real-world scenarios. You will be responsible for building the software that runs on our on-board computer to enable real-time control, seamless integration of robot data and models, and effective fault detection, diagnostics, and recovery.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
  • Deliver production-grade real-time C++ software infrastructure
  • Integrate low-level firmware data with high-level controls logic over real-time task graphs
  • Implement and tune state estimation (IMU, kinematic, odometry fusion) and diagnostic monitors that map sensor faults to DTCs
  • Characterize and improve the quality of robot kinematics, estimation, and actuation
  • Bring up new robot embodiments
  • Integrate learned policies (RL locomotion / motion imitation) into the real-time controls stack
  • Perform root-cause analysis for complex hardware-software integration issues
  • Develop API for controls and autonomy systems to interact with robot hardware and simulation
  • Maintain comprehensive and accurate architecture and design documentation, including HIL and simulation test coverage
  • Deliver reliable software through code reviews, continuous integration, and automated testing
  • Represent and lead with Apptronik's core values: CHIPC - Curiosity, Humility, Integrity, Passion, Creativity

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
  • Technical Skills: Strong modern C++, OOP skills, multi-threading, and Linux application development
  • Deep knowledge of robotics fundamentals (kinematics, dynamics, controls, estimation, and system identification), with bonus points for hands-on experience with floating-base dynamics, contact/constraint modeling, or sensor fusion
  • Understanding of rigid-body motion and frame transformations
  • Comfortable in CMake + colcon ROS2 workspaces
  • Familiarity with at least some of: MuJoCo, Drake, Eigen, ROS2, Flatbuffers, BehaviorTree.CPP
  • Experience leading hardware-in-the-loop or simulation-based testing of control software
  • Familiarity with software testing methodologies and version control (e.g., Git)
  • Strong communication skills and familiarity with Agile processes (sprint planning, design/code reviews)

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • Education: BS, MS, or PhD in relevant fields (Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, etc.)
  • Experience: 5+ years of robotics software development


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.


*This is a direct hire. Please, no outside Agency solicitations.

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