Senior Staff Spatial Perception Engineer

Job Summary

Boston Dynamics is seeking a Spatial Perception Engineer to join our team. This role involves bridging the gap between raw optical inputs and the actionable environmental context required for our AI systems to perform mission-critical tasks. The successful candidate will work closely with AI/ML teams to define hardware dependencies for next-generation perception features.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural definition of multi-modal perception systems, balancing the integration of optical and depth-sensing technologies with onboard compute and power constraints.
• Develop and deploy manufacturing-ready, end-to-end calibration solutions for perception suites, including algorithm test sequences and high-precision data processing pipelines.
• Collaborate with AI/ML teams to define hardware dependencies for next-generation perception features. Drive the characterization of imager and sensor performance through simulation studies and prototyping.
• Own the development and execution of robust validation plans for perception systems. Design comprehensive testing to ensure performance excellence in diverse, challenging environments (e.g., varying lighting, dynamic occlusion, and complex clutter).
• Act as a subject matter expert for perception hardware. Mentor engineers through design reviews and architectural best practices, ensuring our systems remain reliable, scalable, and safe.
• Partner with the Systems Engineering, Software (VLA/VLM), and Actuation teams to define hardware-software interfaces that facilitate smooth, responsive robotic behavior.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in electromechanical hardware product development, with a specific focus on sensing or perception hardware.
• Experience in rigorous prototyping, failure mode analysis (DFMEA), and production readiness for high-complexity robotic systems.
• Familiarity with PLM systems and requirements management tools (e.g., Jama, Jira).

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• A 401(k) plan
• An annual bonus structure

Pay Range

The base pay range for this position is between $130,000 to $190,000 annually. Base pay will depend on multiple individualized factors including, but not limited to internal equity, job related knowledge, skills and experience.