Explore cutting-edge Senior Robotics Software Engineer, Planning and Control jobs, where professionals architect the intelligence that enables robots to move and act autonomously in complex environments. This senior-level role sits at the core of advanced robotics, focusing on the algorithms and systems that translate high-level tasks into safe, efficient, and precise physical motions. Individuals in this profession are responsible for the entire decision-making pipeline for robot movement, from strategic path planning to real-time actuator control, ensuring robots can perform reliably in dynamic and often unpredictable settings. Typically, the role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities centered on two interconnected domains: planning and control. On the planning side, engineers develop sophisticated algorithms—both classical and learning-based—to solve for collision-free paths and optimal trajectories. This involves creating systems that can sequence tasks, navigate around static and dynamic obstacles, and replan in real-time when conditions change. On the control side, the focus shifts to execution, designing robust, real-time control loops that accurately follow planned trajectories. This includes implementing advanced techniques like model predictive control (MPC) and adaptive feedback systems to manage uncertainties, maintain stability, and ensure precise manipulation or locomotion. A key overarching duty is integrating these subsystems seamlessly with perception and hardware layers while enforcing rigorous safety constraints. The typical skill set for these jobs is deeply technical and multidisciplinary. A strong academic background in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is standard, often accompanied by several years of specialized experience. Expert programming proficiency in C++ and/or Python is essential, alongside mastery of core concepts. This includes in-depth knowledge of motion planning algorithms (e.g., sampling-based planners, optimization-based methods), trajectory optimization, and control theory (PID, MPC). A solid foundation in robotics fundamentals—kinematics, dynamics, and state estimation—is crucial, complemented by strong mathematical skills in linear algebra, geometry, and optimization. Senior professionals in these jobs are also expected to demonstrate leadership, guiding architectural decisions, mentoring junior engineers, and upholding high standards in software engineering practices for complex, safety-critical systems. For those passionate about solving some of the most challenging problems in autonomous systems, Senior Robotics Software Engineer, Planning and Control jobs offer a career at the forefront of innovation, directly contributing to the next generation of intelligent machines capable of interacting with and navigating the real world.
