Robotics Software Engineer – Platform

Who We Are

We are an early-stage robotics startup based in Austin, Texas, focused on developing rugged, scalable robotic systems for use in hazardous environments. Our technology supports firefighting, emergency response, public safety, oil and gas, defense, and industrial applications.

Our mission is to build reliable, high-performance robots that operate in extreme, real-world conditions and deliver meaningful impact for frontline teams.

Backed by leading investors, we are working closely with major organizations across the United States, including fire departments, law enforcement agencies, industrial operators, and military units.

As a small, fast-moving team, we are developing the next generation of our platform and moving toward production. This is an opportunity to join early and play a key role in shaping the product, technical direction, and engineering culture.

The Opportunity

As a Robotics Software Engineer focused on platform development, you will work across the full software stack of a robotic system. This includes sensor integration, networking, system architecture, and user interaction through teleoperation.

This is a highly hands-on role where you will take ownership of core features, from initial concept through to deployment in real-world environments. You will collaborate closely with hardware and cross-functional teams, contributing to both system design and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate system requirements into practical, scalable software solutions
• Design and develop core platform features, including architecture and workflows
• Build and iterate end-to-end functionality across sensing, networking, and autonomy components (e.g. SLAM, perception)
• Prototype and refine features to validate performance and user value
• Develop lightweight front-end interfaces to demonstrate functionality and user experience
• Test and validate software in both simulation and real-world environments
• Optimize performance for constrained hardware, including compute, memory, and data throughput
• Improve system reliability, including video streaming and communications in low-bandwidth conditions
• Debug complex, multi-threaded system issues across software and hardware boundaries
• Collaborate closely with electrical and mechanical engineers on integration and system performance
• Produce clear documentation outlining design decisions, architecture, and test outcomes
• Stay current with emerging technologies, tools, and best practices
• Engage with end users when needed to refine requirements and improve functionality

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline
• 1–3+ years of experience developing software for hardware-integrated systems
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ and working knowledge of Python or similar scripting languages
• Basic familiarity with front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Solid understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design principles
• Experience working in Linux environments
• Familiarity with communication protocols (CAN, USB, I2C, Ethernet, etc.)
• Comfortable using lab tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers
• Experience using open-source libraries for complex tasks (e.g. computer vision)
• Exposure to ROS (ROS1 or ROS2)
• Experience delivering projects beyond prototype stage into usable systems

Preferred Experience

• Advanced degree in Computer Science, Robotics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in robotics or hardware-integrated software development
• Strong experience with C/C++, Python, and front-end technologies
• Hands-on experience with ROS1/ROS2
• Background in computer vision, SLAM, or perception systems
• Deep understanding of Linux systems and real-time software
• Experience with networking and wireless communications
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and containerization (e.g. Docker)
• Experience working in fast-paced or startup environments
• Strong understanding of system architecture and hardware/software integration

Additional Expectations

• Willingness to work extended hours when required to meet key milestones
• Hands-on involvement in coding, testing, and field deployment
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability for delivered features
• Proactive communicator who contributes to continuous improvement
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Work Environment

Austin, Texas

Primarily on-site (some flexibility for remote work)

Monday to Friday, with occasional Saturdays

40–60+ hours per week

Compensation and Benefits

$100,000 – $150,000+ depending on experience

Equity: 0.5% – 1.5%

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Unlimited paid time off

Relocation support available

Additional perks including meals and company-provided items