Founding Robotics Engineer

Company DescriptionUncharted AI, an early-stage embodied AI startup backed by Antler and incubated ARTPARK, IISC develops AI-powered autonomous robotic systems for exploration and mapping in extreme, GPS-denied environments. Our dual-use platform integrates advanced autonomy, multi-sensor fusion, and AI geology models. We serve the mining, defence, and space sectors with applications in mineral discovery, planetary resource prospecting, and disaster response.Role DescriptionAre you passionate about robotics and software engineering? Do you thrive on creating robust algorithms and deploying cutting-edge autonomous systems in real-world scenarios? This is a full-time, on-site role located in Bengaluru for a Founding Robotics Engineer. The Founding Robotics Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing autonomous robotic systems. Day-to-day tasks include collaborating with cross-functional teams, conducting research, developing software, and improving process automation. The engineer will also be responsible for real-time problem-solving and ensuring effective communication within the team.We offer competitive salaries, a great working environment, and stock options. This is your chance to shape the future of robotics and work alongside a team that values innovation, hands-on expertise, and impact-driven results. If you’re a software-savvy robotics enthusiast eager to take on exciting challenges and make a tangible difference, this is the opportunity for youWhat You Will Get To DoAlgorithm DevelopmentDesign and implement next-generation AI-powered Trustable Robotic Autonomy and Foundation Intelligence. Pioneer risk-aware, uncertainty-driven decision-making architectures that enable autonomous robots to navigate unstructured, high-stakes environments.Reimagine planning algorithms, trajectory optimization, and task scheduling as a fusion of probabilistic reasoning, geometric intelligence, and adaptive AI, ensuring precise and reliable robot motion in dynamic environments.Develop algorithms to assess environmental conditions and support autonomous decision-makingDesign evaluation frameworks to measure the performance of perception and navigation systemsIntegrate and analyze multi-sensor data to enhance situational awareness and risk assessmentCreate systematic approaches to validate and improve system predictions across diverse operating scenariosCollaborate across perception, planning, and controls to develop benchmarks and metrics for system-wide performanceSoftware Integration and TestingWork extensively with ROS (Robot Operating System) and ROS2 to develop, test, and integrate next-gen autonomous intelligence modules.Design, implement, and test real-world and simulation- learning loops, where self-evolving models refine planning, control, and perception through real-world interaction. Conduct field tests to validate performance and optimize system behavior.Hands-On Robotics DeploymentCollaborate with hardware teams to ensure seamless software-hardware integration.Travel to customer sites to deploy, calibrate, and fine-tune robotic systems in diverse and challenging real-world conditions.Cross-Team CollaborationWork closely with other engineering teams to align development efforts and achieve cohesive system performance Communicate effectively with non-technical stakeholders to explain robotic capabilities and project progress.What You HaveAdvanced degree (Master’s or PhD.) in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with 3+ years industry experience, or a Bachelor's degree with field experience.Strong programming skills: Proficiency in Python and C++ for algorithm development and system integration. Proficiency in ROS (Robot Operating System): Experience developing and integrating robotic software solutions.Hands-On Robotics Experience: Practical experience working with autonomous robotic systems, including testing and deployment in the field.Understanding of Planning and Controls: Solid knowledge of path planning, control theory, and trajectory optimization.Ability and availability to travel: Ability and eagerness to travel to customer sites for deployments, testing, and troubleshooting (up to 30% travel).Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.What Will Set You ApartExperience with GPU programming (CUDA C++, PyTorch) a significant plus.Experience with real-time systems or robotics middleware.Familiarity with sensor integration and perception algorithms.Familiarity with sensors like Lidars, Cameras, High Precision IMUs, hyperspectral cameras, Ground Penetrating Radars, and Spectrometers.Knowledge of machine learning techniques applied to robotics.Exposure to industrial robotics applications in sectors like construction, mining, or manufacturing.Experience working in harsh or outdoor environments.Experience working with humanoid or legged robots.Understanding of safety standards and compliance in robotics.Experience deploying autonomous systems in real-world environmentsBackground in building large-scale datasets for system evaluationUnderstanding of uncertainty modeling in environmental perceptionContributions to open-source projects or research in autonomous systems evaluation