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Robotics Perception Engineer

San Luis Obispo, California, United States

Join us at Zone 5 Technologies where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive pioneering advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Based in the vibrant city of San Luis Obispo CA, we're seeking talented individuals to join and contribute to our growing team.

We thrive on pushing boundaries and inventing solutions to real-world challenges. Join a community of forward-thinkers who collaborate to create impactful products with a global reach. Our team, consisting of engineers and professionals, is prepared to overcome new frontiers and deliver innovative solutions in the field of unmanned aircraft systems.

Join our dynamic team as a Robotics Perception Engineer, where you will be responsible for developing robust, GPS-denied navigation capabilities for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). You’ll focus on visual-inertial odometry (VIO), SLAM, and multi-sensor fusion to ensure resilient pose estimation even in degraded environments.

Responsibilities: 

Algorithm Development 

  • Integrate and evaluate VIO and SLAM libraries (e.g., OpenVINS, VINS-Fusion) 
  • Tune EKF/UKF filters for robust nonlinear state estimation 
  • Perform camera and IMU calibration, and implement outlier rejection methods 

Sensor Fusion 

  • Fuse data from IMU, camera, barometer, magnetometer, and rangefinder sensors 
  • Develop sensor interfaces and publish outputs

Simulation & Testing 

  • Design test scenarios in simulation environments such as Gazebo, AirSim, or Isaac Sim 
  • Analyze flight logs and implement regression tests 

Edge Integration 

  • Collaborate with MLOps and embedded teams to optimize execution on Jetson and Px4 companion computers 

 

Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Robotics, Aerospace, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience) 
  • Proficient in C++14/17 and experience with ROS2
  • Hands-on experience with nonlinear state estimation and multi-sensor fusion
  • Strong understanding of camera/IMU calibration
  • Prior work with small UAVs or robotics platforms 
  • Familiarity with PX4 middleware (preferred) 
  • Knowledge of real-time systems or onboard optimization (preferred) 

 

Pay range for this role

$160,000 - $190,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits: 

  • Competitive total compensation package 
  • Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
  • 401k with company-match 
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

  • Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

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