Robotics Software Engineer - Morris MN

Robotic Vehicle Software Developer

The purpose of this position is to assist a team of researchers developing a robotic vehicle to autonomously follow crop rows using advanced navigation, perception and control systems. This position will be the primary software developer and tester for the team.

Job Duties

Create software for robot navigation and operation - 85%

• Develop and refine the perception system
• Implement post-processing techniques on segmentation masks to enhance lane-finding accuracy
• Develop and implement sensor fusion and SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) algorithms
• Implement, test, and tune navigation controllers
• Oversee the integration of all system components
• Develop and maintain robust communication interfaces
• Perform hands-on testing of the robot in the field
• Document code, system architecture, and operational procedures

Assist with fabrication of robot electrical and mechanical systems - 10%

Duties as assigned - 5%

Qualifications

Required: BA/BS in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or similar technical field plus at least five years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine years.

Strong programming proficiency in Python and/or C++.

Significant hands-on experience with the Robot Operating System (ROS/ROS2).

Solid experience with computer vision libraries (OpenCV) and deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, CUDA).

A firm grasp of control theory and its practical application in robotic systems.

Familiarity with robotic hardware, sensors, and actuator integration.

Proficiency with simulation environments like Gazebo or Isaac Sim.

Experience with embedded computing platforms, particularly the NVIDIA Jetson family.

Ability to occasionally work for extended periods in outdoor environments and to travel occasionally.

Excellent communication and writing skills.

Preferred: An advanced degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or similar technical field.

Experience with autonomous vehicle or mobile robotics projects.

Knowledge of advanced control techniques like Image-Based Visual Servoing (IBVS).

Familiarity with industrial programming environments such as CODESYS.

Experience with model optimization techniques (e.g., quantization, TensorRT) for real-time inference.

About the Department

The University of Minnesota's West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) is located in Morris, MN. The WCROC is part of the University of MN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences providing a tradition of excellence in applied agricultural research and education for farmers and rural communities in crop production, animal sciences, horticulture, water quality, organic and conventional dairy, swine production, and renewable energy.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $36.50 - $39.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off

Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program

Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans

Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts

University HSA contributions

Disability and employer-paid life insurance

Employee wellbeing program

Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity

Financial counseling services

Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

The University of Minnesota is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.