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Autonomous Navigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hyphen Connect Limited

SLAM Architect (Robotics)

Boston, MA · On-site

$60 - $82.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled SLAM Architect to drive the development of advanced autonomous navigation systems. This role involves creating innovative solutions for Visual-Inertial SLAM, dynamic obstacle ...

Hyphen Connect Limited

SLAM Architect (Robotics)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$63 - $86.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled SLAM Architect to drive the development of advanced autonomous navigation systems. This role involves creating innovative solutions for Visual-Inertial SLAM, dynamic obstacle ...

Lunar Outpost, Inc.

Autonomy Engineer

Arvada, CO · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Design and develop of decentralized navigation and decision-making algorithms for lunar rovers and orbital assets. * Develop and implement robust software capable of enabling autonomous operations in ...

Lunar Outpost

Autonomy Engineer

Arvada, CO · On-site

Designand develop of decentralized navigation and decision-making algorithms for lunar roversand orbital assets. * Develop and implement robust software capable of enabling autonomous operations in ...

Lunar Outpost

Autonomy Engineer

Arvada, CO · On-site

Designand develop of decentralized navigation and decision-making algorithms for lunar roversand orbital assets. * Develop and implement robust software capable of enabling autonomous operations in ...

Pivotal

Autonomy Engineer II - Robotics

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

Design and develop autonomous navigation and mission planning systems for aerial robotic platforms. * Develop trajectory generation, path planning, and obstacle avoidance algorithms for dynamic ...

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All JobsAutonomous Navigation Jobs

Autonomous Navigation information

What is autonomous navigation?

Autonomous navigation refers to the technology and processes that enable vehicles or robots to move through an environment and reach a destination without human intervention. This involves using sensors, artificial intelligence, and algorithms to perceive the surroundings, plan paths, and avoid obstacles. Autonomous navigation is widely used in self-driving cars, drones, robotic vacuum cleaners, and industrial robots. The technology continues to evolve rapidly, enhancing safety, efficiency, and versatility across various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Autonomous Navigation roles, and why are they important?

To excel in Autonomous Navigation, you need a strong background in robotics, computer vision, sensor fusion, and algorithm development, typically supported by a degree in robotics, computer science, or a related engineering field. Familiarity with tools such as ROS (Robot Operating System), SLAM algorithms, LIDAR, and programming languages like Python or C++ is essential. Critical soft skills include problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability to rapidly changing technologies. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable navigation systems that can safely and efficiently operate in complex, real-world environments.

What is the difference between Autonomous Navigation vs Path Planning Engineer?

AspectAutonomous NavigationPath Planning Engineer
Required CredentialsDegree in Robotics, Computer Science, or related fields; experience with sensors and algorithmsSimilar credentials; focus on algorithms and robotics
Work EnvironmentRobotics labs, field testing, autonomous vehicle developmentRobotics teams, simulation environments, vehicle systems
Industry UsageAutonomous vehicles, drones, robotics systemsAutonomous vehicles, robotics companies, research institutions
Comparison FocusOverall navigation capabilities of autonomous systemsSpecific algorithms for generating feasible paths

Autonomous Navigation involves the entire process of enabling a robot or vehicle to move safely and efficiently in an environment, integrating perception, localization, and decision-making. Path Planning Engineer specializes in designing algorithms that determine the optimal route within the navigation system. While both roles require similar skills and work in related environments, Autonomous Navigation covers the broader system, whereas Path Planning focuses specifically on route generation.

How does an Autonomous Navigation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As an Autonomous Navigation engineer, you will frequently work alongside robotics hardware teams, software developers, and data scientists to integrate navigation algorithms into real-world systems. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to align on system requirements, troubleshooting integration issues, and field-testing prototypes. Effective communication and a willingness to iterate quickly are key, as navigation performance depends on close coordination between sensing, perception, and control subsystems. This collaborative environment provides valuable learning opportunities and exposure to various aspects of robotics development.
Infographic showing various Autonomous Navigation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.
Senior Robotics Software Engineer (Navigation)

Senior Robotics Software Engineer (Navigation)

Motion Recruitment

Charlestown, MA • On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

A rapidly growing robotics and automation company in the Greater Boston area is hiring a full-time Senior Software Engineer, Navigation to develop and optimize navigation and mobility systems for autonomous mobile robots operating in dynamic real-world environments. This role focuses on motion planning, robot controls, trajectory optimization, autonomous navigation, and fleet-scale robotics software development using technologies such as Python, robotics planning algorithms, optimization techniques, and advanced control systems. The position offers the opportunity to directly impact the performance, safety, and scalability of next-generation autonomous robotic systems deployed in production environments.

This is an exciting opportunity for a robotics software engineer who enjoys solving challenging autonomy problems and wants to see their work deployed on real robots every day. The company is looking for someone who can combine deep technical expertise in navigation and controls with strong leadership and mentorship capabilities. You’ll work closely with robotics, software, hardware, and AI teams to improve robot performance while helping shape the architecture of scalable autonomy systems. This role offers significant ownership, direct product impact, and the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge robotics technology in a fast-growing environment.

Required Skills & Experience
· 5+ years of experience in robotics software engineering, or 3+ years with a Master's degree or higher
· Industry experience developing navigation algorithms for autonomous mobile robots
· Strong proficiency in Python
· Strong understanding of robot kinematics and dynamics
· Experience with motion planning and robotic control systems
· Experience with graph search and planning algorithms such as A*, RRT, and PRM
· Experience with mathematical optimization techniques including convex optimization and nonlinear programming
· Experience with mobile robot control algorithms such as PID, Pure Pursuit, and LQR
· Experience deploying and supporting navigation features across fleets of robots
· Strong debugging, performance optimization, and system design skills
· Excellent communication and collaboration abilities

Desired Skills & Experience
· Experience with C++ development
· Experience with trajectory optimization and model predictive control (MPC)
· Experience with collision avoidance and autonomous recovery behaviors
· Experience applying mathematical optimization to robotic motion planning
· Familiarity with machine learning techniques for robotics, including behavior cloning and diffusion policies
· Experience leading engineering teams within Agile or Scrum environments
· Experience designing scalable robotics software architectures
· Experience working in warehouse automation, logistics robotics, or autonomous systems

What You Will Be Doing

Tech Breakdown
· 40% Navigation & Motion Planning Development
· 25% Controls & Optimization Algorithms
· 20% Robotics Software Architecture
· 15% Team Leadership & Mentorship

Daily Responsibilities
· 65% Hands On
· 15% Technical Leadership
· 20% Team Collaboration

The Offer
• Bonus eligible
• Equity eligible

You will receive the following benefits:
· Medical Insurance
· Dental Benefits
· Vision Benefits
· Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO)
· 401(k) with company contribution
· Paid Holidays

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis now and in the future.

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