Associate Robotics AI Engineer (Entry Level)

About the role

We are seeking an early career Robotics AI Engineer to support fast-moving, IRAD-style projects at the intersection of artificial intelligence and robotic systems. This is a hybrid position located at our Columbus, OH headquarters.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate AI/ML models on robotic platforms (ground, aerial, maritime) for perception, navigation, and decision-making
• Integrate, calibrate, and troubleshoot sensors (cameras, LiDAR, IMUs, GPS, depth sensors) to support localization and mapping
• Apply sensor fusion and state estimation techniques to improve system reliability in dynamic environments
• Write production-quality code in Python and/or C++ within ROS/ROS2 and Linux environments, leveraging modern development tools
• Build and validate perception and autonomy pipelines in simulation and deploy to physical hardware through testing and iteration
• Deploy and optimize AI models on edge computing platforms for real-time inference
• Conduct field testing and resolve hardware-software integration issues under real-world conditions
• Contribute to rapid prototyping efforts supporting IRAD and mission-driven timelines
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to translate ambiguous requirements into working solutions
• Document designs, testing, and integration processes to support reproducibility
• Support research proposals and present technical findings to stakeholders and external audiences

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field. 0 to 2 years of experience (including academic projects, internships, research, competitions)
• Proficiency in Python and/or C++ for robotics or autonomous systems
• Hands-on experience integrating software with physical sensors and hardware
• Foundational knowledge of AI/ML for physical systems (computer vision, planning, control, reinforcement learning)
• Experience with ROS or ROS2
• Familiarity with Linux and version control (Git)
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in fast-paced, ambiguous environments
• Must be a U.S. Citizen

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or relevant graduate research in robotics or AI
• Experience with embedded systems, real-time systems, or hardware-software co-design
• Familiarity with robotics data tools (rosbag, MCAP)
• Hands-on prototyping skills (3D printing, soldering, wiring, PCB work)
• Experience with AI/ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV)
• Background in robotics competitions, open-source contributions, or published research
• Exposure to multi-agent systems, human-robot teaming, or swarm robotics
• Familiarity with MATLAB or Simulink
• Interest in autonomy testing, validation, or safe AI systems
• Experience in government, defense, or applied research environments