Robotics Perception Engineer I/II – Perception Systems & Integration
Zone 5 Technologies · San Luis Obispo County, CA · 1 mo ago
On-siteEngineering$110k/yrFull-time
About the role
We are seeking a Robotics Perception Engineer to build and integrate real-time vision systems and perception infrastructure for unmanned aerial platforms. You will develop camera pipelines, implement sensor fusion algorithms, and create robust testing frameworks to ensure reliable perception performance across diverse operating conditions.
Responsibilities
- Vision System Integration
- Develop and maintain camera drivers and sensor interfaces for multi-camera systems on embedded platforms
- Build efficient image processing pipelines using GStreamer, V4L2, and Jetson multimedia APIs
- Implement camera calibration workflows including intrinsic, extrinsic, and temporal synchronization
- Integrate off-the-shelf and custom perception algorithms into production autonomy stacks
- Design data logging and telemetry systems for perception subsystem monitoring and debugging
- Perception Infrastructure & ROS2 Development
- Build ROS2 nodes for camera capture, sensor fusion, and perception output distribution
- Develop standardized message interfaces and APIs between perception, planning, and control systems
- Create visualization and diagnostic tools for real-time perception system health monitoring
- Implement efficient data serialization and transport for high-bandwidth sensor streams
- Maintain perception software repositories with proper documentation and version control
- Algorithm Implementation & Tuning
- Integrate visual-inertial odometry (VIO) and SLAM libraries for state estimation
- Tune EKF/UKF filters for multi-sensor fusion from IMU, cameras, barometers, and rangefinders
- Implement outlier rejection and sensor health monitoring for robust operation
- Optimize algorithm parameters based on flight test data and performance metrics
- Testing & Validation
- Design comprehensive test scenarios in simulation environments
- Develop automated regression test suites for continuous integration of perception updates
- Analyze flight logs and sensor data to identify failure modes and performance degradation
- Create hardware-in-the-loop test setups for pre-flight validation
- Support flight test operations and conduct post-flight performance analysis
Requirements
- Bachelor's in Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field – equivalent industry experience also welcome
- 1-4+ years of experience in robotics perception, computer vision, or sensor integration
- Proficient in C++14/17 with understanding of modern software development practices
- Strong hands-on experience with ROS2 architecture, packages, and development workflows
- Solid understanding of camera systems, image sensors, and computer vision fundamentals
- Experience with sensor calibration procedures and multi-sensor time synchronization
- Familiarity with Linux development environments and embedded systems
- Strong debugging skills and experience with system-level integration
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with camera drivers, GStreamer, V4L2, or similar multimedia frameworks
- Hands-on experience with NVIDIA Jetson platforms (Orin, Xavier, AGX)
- Prior work with small UAVs, drones, or mobile robotics platforms
- Familiarity with PX4 or ArduPilot autopilot systems and MAVLink protocol
- Experience with state estimation techniques (EKF, UKF, particle filters)
- Knowledge of VIO/SLAM frameworks (OpenVINS, VINS-Fusion, ORB-SLAM)
- Python skills for data analysis, visualization, and tooling development
- Understanding of real-time systems and computational performance optimization
- Experience with CI/CD pipelines for robotics software
- Background in sensor fusion, optical flow, or feature-based tracking
Pay
$110,000 USD - $145,000 USD
Benefits
- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more
- 401k with company-match
- 4 weeks of paid time off each year
- 12 annual company holidays
Why Join Us
- Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.