Robotics Autonomy Engineer

Senior Robotics Autonomy Engineer - Lead AI Systems for Counter-UAS Defense Platforms!Austin, TX | On-siteOpportunity SummaryWe are partnered with a venture-backed defense technology company building autonomous robotic systems designed to detect, track, and defeat small unmanned aerial threats. Their platform integrates perception, controls, and edge computing into a tightly coupled hardware system capable of operating in dynamic, real-world environments. As a Senior Robotics Autonomy Engineer, you will lead the design and deployment of the core autonomy stack - spanning perception, sensor fusion, decision logic, and real-time robotic response. This is a hands-on role focused on fieldable systems, not research in isolation. You will help transition advanced AI models into ruggedized hardware platforms built for mission-critical performance.About UsWe are a well-funded defense robotics startup focused on autonomous counter-UAS systems. Operating at the intersection of AI, embedded systems, and mechanical design, the team is building integrated robotic platforms that must meet strict size, weight, and power constraints while maintaining high reliability in contested environments. The company is scaling deliberately, with a focus on engineering rigor and rapid iteration in live testing environments.Job DutiesLead development of the autonomy architecture for robotic counter-UAS platformsDesign and train perception models for detection, classification, and tracking of small aerial systemsBuild and maintain multi-modal sensor fusion pipelines combining radar, RF, acoustic, and optical inputsTranslate perception outputs into real-time targeting and control decisionsDevelop trajectory prediction and interception logic for autonomous responseOptimize AI and autonomy algorithms for deployment on low-SWaP embedded edge hardwarePartner closely with controls, embedded, and mechanical engineering teams to ensure hardware-software integrationSupport field testing, data collection, model refinement, and performance validationEstablish deployment and monitoring workflows for autonomy updates in operational environmentsQualifications3+ years of experience in robotics, autonomy, or AI/ML engineeringStrong programming proficiency in PythonExperience with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlowPractical experience deploying models to embedded or edge computing platformsBackground in sensor fusion, robotics perception, or real-time control systemsExperience working across the full ML lifecycle from model development through deploymentStrong foundation in applied mathematics including linear algebra and probabilityMust qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR regulationsWillingness to complete a background checkPreferred ExperiencePrior experience in defense, aerospace, or robotics startupsExposure to ROS, real-time systems, or embedded GPU platforms (e.g., Jetson)Experience with autonomy in safety-critical or mission-critical systemsActive security clearance or eligibility to obtain oneDemonstrated interest in hands-on robotics or autonomous systems developmentWhy Join UsEarly equity in a venture-backed defense robotics companyTechnical ownership of core autonomy and perception systemsDirect impact on mission-critical national security applicationsOpportunity to shape the autonomy roadmap from early-stage through scaleOn-site lab environment with integrated robotics and rapid prototyping capabilitiesHigh-growth environment with strong leadership and clear technical visionCompensation Details$150,000 - $250,000