Staff Systems Analyst – Robotic Algorithms and Control

About the role

The Staff Systems Analyst position within the Future Forward Research group at Intuitive Surgical focuses on exploring new technologies for future products and applications in the emerging field of computer and robot-assisted medical interventions. This role involves detailed design and implementation of controllers and algorithms for novel instrument concepts and visualization schemes running on Intuitive's latest surgical robots or new platforms. The analyst also integrates and evaluates fully functional prototypes and promotes their translation into finished products, providing analytic assistance to other engineering groups.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate distributed electro-mechanical systems and dynamic models through targeted experimentation.
• Design and implement software algorithms, tools, and infrastructure for new products.
• Integrate mechanical, hardware, and software components for new product development.
• Apply control system design methods to prototype and validate novel medical robotic systems.
• Conduct comprehensive testing, safety analysis, and performance monitoring throughout the development lifecycle.
• Lead early systems engineering development, requirement translation, and cross-functional discussions.
• Develop sensor and control schemes to enhance robotic system performance and address user needs.
• Create thorough documentation and identify, document, and communicate intellectual property generated during development.

Qualifications

• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of robot manipulator kinematics, classical and modern control systems, teleoperation, and related algorithms.
• A proven record of integrating and characterizing complete mechatronic systems.
• Knowledge of electrical and mechanical design principles and CAD tools (a plus).
• Experience designing and developing teleoperation algorithms and real-time embedded software systems.
• Proficiency in Matlab and C/C++; experience with high-level languages such as Python and JavaScript is a plus.
• Ability to excel in a dynamic, focused team environment with a collaborative and positive approach.
• Comprehensive understanding of teleoperation systems, software, and interfaces for building reliable, mission-critical solutions.
• Skilled in profiling, debugging, and optimizing system software with a disciplined and persistent approach to problem solving.
• Strong communication skills and commitment to teamwork.
• Deep understanding of software engineering principles and methodologies.

Required Education and Training

• A graduate degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Control Systems Engineering, or a similar field relating to robotics or electro-mechanical systems.
• A minimum of five (5) years of experience in servo control systems development for robotics or electro-mechanical systems, with hands-on implementation.