Robot Platform Software Engineer

JOB SUMMARY

You will join a team developing state-of-the-art general-purpose robots designed to operate in human spaces and with human tools. It is designed to work alongside humans, mobilize to human spaces, and manipulate the world around it.

Apptronik is a pioneering company specializing in advanced robotics and automation solutions. We are seeking a talented Robot Platform Software Engineer to join our team in Austin, TX. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology platforms that power our next-generation robotic systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Platform Evolution: Contribute to the development and implementation of scalable software solutions that evolve existing architectures to support next-generation robotic systems.
• Architecture: Participate in architectural discussions and provide technical input to help define the roadmap for platform software, focusing on modularity and performance.
• Hardware-Software Integration: Work closely with hardware teams to execute de-risking tasks and validate new components, ensuring reliable communication and integration across the robotic stack.
• Resource Profiling: Assist in evaluating compute resource requirements by profiling complex software stacks and identifying opportunities for optimization in constrained environments.
• System Adaptation: Support the porting and optimization of established software frameworks to new hardware platforms, maintaining high standards for system stability and reliability.
• Performance Benchmarking: Conduct profiling and benchmarking tests to identify system bottlenecks, helping to ensure the platform scales effectively across diverse hardware.
• Engineering Standards: Adhere to and promote software engineering best practices, including participating in code reviews, maintaining clear documentation, and contributing to continuous integration efforts.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Strong C++ Command: Proficiency in C++ within a Linux environment, with experience in system-level programming and an understanding of performance-sensitive code.
• Architectural Awareness: Solid understanding of complex, multi-component system architectures and the ability to contribute meaningful design ideas for safety and scalability.
• Hardware Interaction: Experience with hardware integration and testing, including familiarity with low-level drivers, communication protocols (e.g., CAN, EtherCAT), or sensor data handling.
• Analytical Profiling: Ability to perform resource usage analysis (CPU, memory, latency) to help inform system specifications and hardware selection.
• Adaptability with Existing Code: Proven ability to work within and improve established codebases, balancing the need for modernization with a respect for proven architectural foundations.
• Distributed Systems: Familiarity with API design, and containerization tools like Docker or Kubernetes in a robotics or embedded context.
• Collaborative Mindset: Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment, bridging the gap between hardware constraints and software requirements.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree in computer science or equivalent preferred.
• 4+ years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on developing system-level software

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
• Hearing and speech to communicate