Sr. Robotics Engineer, Perception

Contoro Robotics is an Austin-based startup revolutionizing warehouse automation with a cutting-edge autonomous truck unloading solution capable of handling payloads over 60 lbs. Our mission is to deploy reliable, high-throughput robotic systems that solve real logistics challenges daily—beyond proof-of-concept demos.

About the role

We’re seeking a seasoned Senior Robotics Engineer specializing in perception and sensor fusion to drive our next generation of autonomous capabilities from prototype to production.

Responsibilities

• Perception & Computer Vision: Detect and estimate 6-DoF poses and 3D dimensions of rigid objects under occlusion and challenging lighting.
• Sensor Fusion & Calibration: Integrate and synchronize multi-modal sensors (cameras, LiDAR, IMU, radar/ultrasonic). Perform extrinsic/intrinsic calibration techniques (hand-eye, LiDAR–camera alignment).
• Localization & Environment Awareness: Implement lightweight localization methods (e.g., point-cloud registration, marker-based or feature-map alignment) within constrained, repetitive environments like shipping containers.

Requirements

• Experience: 5+ years of professional experience in robotics perception and sensor fusion, with at least 2 years in a senior or lead role.
• Education: Minimum bachelor's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent industry experience).
• Technical Expertise:
  • Proficient in C++ (modern standards), Python, and ROS 1/ROS 2.
  • Hands-on with industrial 3D cameras, LiDARs, IMUs, radar sensors, and synchronized data acquisition.
  • Deep understanding of multi-sensor calibration techniques (e.g., hand-eye, LiDAR–camera extrinsics).
  • Strong background in both deep-learning (e.g., YOLO, Mask R-CNN) and classical vision (feature matching, PnP, RANSAC) toolchains.
  • Proficiency with OpenCV, PCL, Open3D for real-time image and point-cloud processing.
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong problem-solving skills and data-driven decision-making.
  • Excellent communication—capable of presenting complex technical concepts clearly to cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to SLAM-lite or marker-based mapping approaches (AprilTags, ArUco).
• Prior work with cloud-based monitoring/logging (AWS RoboMaker, Azure IoT).

Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity options in a rapidly growing startup.
• Comprehensive benefits: health, vision, dental.
• 401k match.
• Health & wellness program.
• Continuous education.
• Free office snacks.
• Flexible work hours.
• Entertainment area (ping pong).
• Pet-friendly office.
• Employee Recognition Program (nectarHR).
• A high-impact role with the chance to directly shape the future of robotics.
• Opportunities for career growth in an exciting, fast-paced, and innovation-driven environment.
• A collaborative and dynamic team, where your contributions are valued, and you’ll have the support needed to excel.