UI/UX Software Engineer - NREC

About the role

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), engineers and technicians drive breakthroughs that define success. As a UI/UX Software Engineer, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions for industrial, commercial, and government sectors. You will work alongside world-class robotics professionals, contributing to projects ranging from industrial machine operator assist systems to agricultural productivity tools and beyond. NREC fosters a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible environment where you can sharpen your skills and lead impactful projects.

Responsibilities

• Co-Design Human-Machine Interfaces: Partner closely with robotics engineers, hardware teams, and field operators to design custom, intuitive interfaces for complex robotic systems.
• Build Native Qt/QML Frontends: Develop fluid, hardware-accelerated user interfaces using QML and/or Qt, binding them smoothly to backend C++ or Python data streams.
• Prototype & Test with Real Users: Prototype interaction flows and collaborate directly with end-users to evaluate usability, safety, and operator performance in the field.
• Integrate Real-Time System Data: Connect UI components to central system state engines, telemetry feeds, and databases while ensuring the interface remains fast and responsive.
• Champion Collaborative Software Development: Actively participate in an inclusive team culture through constructive peer reviews of both designs and code, integration testing, version control, and clear documentation.
• Integrate & Adapt APIs: Adapt open-source libraries, proprietary tools, and backend APIs to extend UI capabilities cleanly and maintainably.
• Cross-Functional Field Testing: Validate and refine interfaces through hands-on testing with both simulated environments and physical robotic hardware alongside the broader engineering team.

Requirements

• Education & Experience: B.S. in Computer Science, HCI, Design, or equivalent practical experience, with 1–3+ years of combined academic or professional software development experience.
• Qt / QML Proficiency: Hands-on experience building modern, responsive user interfaces using QML and/or Qt.
• Frontend-to-Backend Integration: Understanding of how to connect QML frontends to application backends (via C++ signals/slots, PySide6/PyQt, or async data handlers).
• User-Centered Mindset: Ability to translate user feedback, operational workflows, and rough sketches/wireframes into clear, functional visual layouts.
• Teamwork & Communication: Strong interpersonal and technical communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to thrive in a cross-functional, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Core Engineering Standards: Proficiency with Git version control, writing clean code, and participating in peer code/design reviews.
• Adaptability & Curiosity: Enthusiasm for learning how physical hardware works and bridging the gap between human operators and complex machines.

Preferred Qualifications

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in ANY of the following areas:

• Designing for touch pendants, handheld controllers, or embedded/cyber-physical systems.
• Robotics frameworks or tools (ROS / ROS 2, Gazebo, or 3D telemetry visualization).
• Conducting usability interviews or observing end-users operating hardware in the field.
• Python, backend development, or database integration.
• Graphic design tools (Figma, Adobe XD, GIMP, or Photoshop) or Qt Design Studio.
• Android development or embedded Linux deployment.

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including those involving military/defense applications and/or funded by military/defense sponsors. A successful pre-employment background check is required.

About NREC

• Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh,” a hub for over 120+ robotics companies.
• 30+ years of pioneering robotics research.
• 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact.
• Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics.

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy, which develops curricula and software for K–12 and college-level students. You will have opportunities to engage with these student groups through outreach activities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Access to a Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

Pay

Salary basis.

Schedule

Full time.