Senior Autonomous Navigation Engineer

Futronics Corp, a spin-off from UBTECH Robotics, is a global leader in artificial intelligence and robotics. Through cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence and robotics, we are committed to developing groundbreaking robotic and AI technologies, products, and solutions that empower people, transform industries, and drive positive change worldwide. By concentrating on intelligent solutions across diverse domains—such as healthcare, rehabilitation, field service, smart homes, and large-scale management systems—we strive to enhance quality of life and build a future where technology seamlessly benefits everyone. 

We are seeking an experienced Autonomous Navigation Engineer to join our R&D team.  

You will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing sophisticated algorithms that empower our robots to autonomously navigate complex and dynamic environments with precision and reliability. By leveraging advanced techniques in path planning, localization, mapping, visual SLAM, and semantic environmental understanding technologies, you will contribute to the development of solutions that enhance robot autonomy and performance. You will design and implement state-of-the-art algorithms that fuse visual data with other sensory inputs, facilitating real-time mapping and localization. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the integration of navigation solutions that enable robots to operate efficiently and safely in dynamic environments. 

The R&D team consists of a diverse group of talented researchers and engineers. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in production applications and will collaborate closely with the team to develop and deliver the latest cutting-edge AI robotic ecosystem. 

Job Type: Full-Time 

Responsibilities: 

• Design and develop navigation algorithms for autonomous systems, including path planning, localization, and mapping. 

• Design and optimize algorithms for data fusion from various sensors, including cameras, LiDAR, and IMUs. Implement and optimize algorithms for real-time performance in various operational scenarios. 

• Integrate semantic understanding of environments into navigation systems, enhancing the robot's ability to recognize and interpret objects and obstacles. 

• Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of navigation solutions with robotic platforms. 

• Conduct simulations and testing to validate navigation algorithms and ensure robust performance in real-world conditions. Analyze sensor data (LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, etc.) to enhance localization and mapping accuracy.  

• Research and apply state-of-the-art techniques in autonomous navigation, including machine learning and computer vision methods. 

• Develop and maintain detailed technical documentation of control algorithms, software architecture, and test results. 

• Participate in the development of system-level requirements and ensure compliance with safety and performance standards. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements and deliver innovative navigation solutions for various applications. 

• Track the state-of-the-art technology and conduct frontier R&D. 

• Attend international conferences and forums to present research findings, publish papers, and contribute to the advancement of the field. 

• Travel domestically and internationally for internal meetings, external technical discussions, conferences, and partner engagements. 

• Other duties may be required from time to time. 

Qualifications: 

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, or related fields. 

• Proven experience in designing and implementing navigation algorithms for real-world autonomous systems. 

• Strong knowledge of path planning, localization techniques (e.g., SLAM), and mapping methodologies.  

• Strong expertise in visual SLAM, including experience with state-of-the-art algorithms and frameworks. 

• Proficiency in semantic segmentation and environmental understanding techniques, with knowledge of relevant libraries (e.g., OpenCV, TensorFlow, PyTorch). 

• Solid understanding of sensor technologies, including cameras, LiDAR, and IMUs, and their integration into navigation systems. 

• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or MATLAB. 

• Experience with software development best practices, including code reviews, testing, and version control. 

• Experience with robotics middleware (e.g., ROS) and simulation environments (e.g., Gazebo). 

• Solid understanding of control theory and optimization techniques. 

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. 

• Passion for technology and a desire to continuously learn and improve. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 5 or more years of industrial experience conducting applied research or developing real robotic systems. 

• In-depth expertise in technical fields relevant to autonomous navigation with both system-level thinking and component-level development. 

• Experience with deep learning techniques applied to computer vision and navigation. 

• Familiar with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded programming. 

• Background in multi-robot systems or swarm robotics. 

• A track record of publications or patents in the field of autonomous navigation and SLAM 

• Passionate about exploring new areas and implementing innovative ideas and concepts. 

• Customer engagement with solid strategic thinking skills, business development, and excellent execution to meet business requirements and deadlines. 

• Strong connection with global technical leaders and academic researchers. 

• Work independently and with other team members and lead teams in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. 

• Excellent skills in communicating with the executive management team. 

Locations: Pasadena, Greater Los Angeles Area, CA. (This position is onsite only)