Robotics Software Engineer

Optimal Inc.

Warren, MI

JOB DETAILS
JOB TYPE
Contractor
SKILLS
3D Design, Algorithms, Architectural Services, Automation, C++ Programming Language, Cloud Computing, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Computer Vision, Cross-Functional, Ecosystems, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Engineering, Python Programming/Scripting Language, Realtime Communications, Robotics, Robotics Software, Simulation, Software Development, Software Engineering, System Integration (SI), Testing, Validation Testing
LOCATION
Warren, MI
POSTED
1 day ago

About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Robotics Software Engineer to spearhead the development of our next-generation automated pick-and-place systems. In this role, you will be responsible for leading the architectural transition of our current robotic workcells from proprietary software to a highly customized, robust, and scalable ROS 2 based architecture.

You will design, implement, and deploy advanced motion planning algorithms using MoveIt 2 and integrate sophisticated 3D perception pipelines to handle complex pick-and-place tasks in dynamic manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

  • Motion Planning: Develop, tune, and implement advanced robotic arm motion planning and manipulation algorithms using MoveIt 2.
  • Perception Pipeline Integration: Design and integrate 3D perception pipelines (utilizing point clouds, depth maps, and 3D sensors like Photoneo PhoXi) for robust object detection, pose estimation, and obstacle avoidance.
  • Software Development: Write clean, efficient, and production-ready code in C++ and Python within the ROS 2 ecosystem.
  • Hardware Integration: Interface software stacks with industrial robotic arms, end-effectors, and 3D vision sensors, ensuring seamless real-time communication and low-latency control.
  • Testing & Validation: Design and execute rigorous simulation testing (e.g., Gazebo) and physical hardware validation in the lab and on the factory floor.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams including mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to deliver end-to-end automation solutions.

Required Qualifications
Education: Master's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

  • ROS 2 Expertise: Proven, hands-on experience developing complex robotics applications using ROS 2 and its core concepts (Nodes, Topics, Services, Actions, lifecycle management).
  • Motion Planning: Deep understanding of kinematics, dynamics, and motion planning frameworks, with extensive hands-on experience using MoveIt 2.
  • Perception: Solid background in 3D computer vision and point cloud processing (PCL, OpenCV) for robotic manipulation tasks.
  • Programming Skills: Strong proficiency in modern C++ and Python.
    System Integration: Experience interfacing with industrial robots and 3D vision hardware (e.g., RealSense, ZED).

About the Company

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Optimal Inc.