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Zulu Pods, Inc. · 2 months ago

Senior Robotics Engineer, Level 3

Northampton, MA

Full-time

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

4+ years exp

Zulu Pods, Inc. is building America's next-generation component and sub-system company, seeking a highly motivated Senior Robotics Engineer to support the development of their SmartPODS products. This role involves designing, developing, and testing complex electro-mechanical systems for the aerospace and defense industry, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring innovative robotic solutions to life.

AerospaceAir TransportationMilitary

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Lead the detailed design, analysis, and simulation of complex electro-mechanical subsystems for the SmartPODs, including actuation, sensing, and power distribution mechanisms, ensuring they meet strict aerospace and defense specifications (e.g., vibration, temperature, EMI/EMC)

Lead brainstorming sessions and design reviews, oversee the fabrication, assembly, and rigorous testing of prototypes. Develop and execute comprehensive test plans to validate system performance, reliability, and robustness in relevant environments

Design and implement advanced robotic control algorithms for precision motion, sensing, and autonomous functions, primarily using C/C++ or similar languages on embedded platforms

Collaborate closely with software, electrical, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of robotic components with the overall SmartPOD architecture

Run test cases for hardware and software, document bugs and troubleshoot, and measure performance metrics

Generate and maintain detailed engineering documentation, including requirements specifications, design documents, test reports, and manufacturing procedures, adhering to industry standards

Work with cross-functional teams (engineers, designers, operations, and program management) to successfully execute projects on time and within design scope

Serve as a technical resource and mentor to junior engineers. Drive best practices in design, documentation, and configuration management

Qualification

Robotics EngineeringElectro-mechanical system designC/C++ programmingCAD software proficiencyEmbedded systems knowledgeMotor selection expertiseTestingDebuggingProblem-solving skillsCommunication skillsTeamwork abilities

Required

Education: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Computer/Software Engineering, or related field

Experience: Minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in robotics, mechatronics, or complex electro-mechanical system design and development, preferably within the aerospace, defense, or highly regulated industries

Proven experience in motor selection, gearing, and actuation system design (e.g., servo, stepper, solenoids)

Strong proficiency with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CREO) and FEA/Simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink)

In-depth knowledge of embedded systems, microcontrollers (e.g., ARM), and relevant communication protocols (e.g., CAN bus, Ethernet, RS-485)

Demonstrated experience designing systems for harsh environments, including consideration for thermal management, sealing, and material selection for extreme loads

Programming Skills: Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded control, and experience with scripting languages like Python for testing and data analysis. Experience with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and Github a strong plus

Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new technologies

0-25% Travel as required by job responsibilities

US Citizenship or Permanent Residency (due to the nature of defense-related work)

Preferred

Experience with DO-178C or DO-254 development assurance standards

Familiarity with various robotic sensing technologies (e.g., LiDAR, IMUs, computer vision) and sensor fusion techniques

Experience with PLC or equivalent industrial control systems

Benefits

Competitive salary and equity options

Comprehensive Health Insurance: Standard offerings include medical, dental, and vision insurance

Disability Insurance: Company-paid basic Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) insurance to ensure financial security

Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): Competitive policies for vacation, sick, and personal days

Paid Parental Leave: Substantial time off for new parents

Career Acceleration: Join early in our growth journey to position yourself for future leadership opportunities as we expand; your impact today helps shape the company and opens doors to senior roles tomorrow

Influence and Autonomy: Senior engineers are often granted a high degree of technical autonomy and direct influence over core product decisions and architecture

Office Amenities: Stocked kitchens with unlimited snacks and gourmet coffee, team game nights, and team-building events

Personal Fulfillment: A stimulating, high-impact environment where your work directly contributes to national security and technological advancement