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Perception Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Clearwater, FL

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Perception Algorithm Engineer information

See Clearwater, FL salary details

$54.8K

$102.9K

$187.1K

How much do perception algorithm engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for perception algorithm engineer in Clearwater, FL is $102,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a perception algorithm engineer?

A Perception Algorithm Engineer is a professional who develops algorithms that enable machines—such as autonomous vehicles or robots—to interpret and understand sensory data from their environment. This typically involves processing data from cameras, lidar, radar, and other sensors to identify objects, track movement, and understand surroundings. Perception Algorithm Engineers work with computer vision, sensor fusion, and machine learning techniques to create reliable and efficient perception systems. Their work is crucial in making machines aware of their surroundings and enabling them to respond appropriately. They often collaborate with hardware, software, and robotics teams to integrate their algorithms into real-world applications.

What are some common challenges faced by perception algorithm engineers when integrating their solutions into autonomous systems?

Perception Algorithm Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring their algorithms perform reliably in diverse real-world environments, such as varying lighting, weather conditions, and sensor noise. Integrating algorithms with hardware requires close collaboration with robotics and systems engineering teams to optimize performance and latency. Additionally, balancing accuracy with computational efficiency is crucial, as perception modules must run in real time on embedded systems. Addressing these challenges involves rigorous testing, continuous model improvement, and effective cross-functional communication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a perception algorithm engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Perception Algorithm Engineer, you need a strong background in computer vision, machine learning, and programming (typically C++ or Python), often supported by a degree in computer science, robotics, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenCV, and ROS, as well as experience with sensor data (e.g., LiDAR, cameras), is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are vital to develop robust perception systems that enable autonomous vehicles and robots to interpret and interact safely with complex real-world environments.

What cities near Clearwater, FL are hiring for Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs?

Cities near Clearwater, FL with the most Perception Algorithm Engineer job openings:

Perception Algorithm Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Perception Algorithm Engineer job openings in Clearwater, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,888 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Software Engineer - Robotics & Autonomy

Clearwater, FL • On-site

Nokturnal AI
See more jobs at Nokturnal AIexternal

$150K - $217K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job description:

Software Engineer - Robotics & Autonomy

Clearwater, Fl


ONSITE ONLY


We are seeking a Software Engineer IV to support the development and deployment of autonomous systems for real-world robotic platforms. This role focuses on building and integrating perception, localization, and navigation capabilities for systems operating in dynamic and GPS-denied environments.

This position operates with a high level of independence and is responsible for delivering production-ready autonomy solutions. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including hardware, systems, and program leadership to ensure successful integration and deployment of robotics capabilities in fielded systems.


What You'll Do

  • Develop and deploy autonomy pipelines across perception, localization, and navigation for robotic platforms
  • Design and implement real-time perception capabilities such as object detection, tracking, and obstacle avoidance
  • Build and optimize state estimation and navigation algorithms including visual odometry, VIO, and SLAM
  • Integrate software with robotic systems, including flight controllers and autonomy stacks (PX4, ArduPilot)
  • Deploy and optimize algorithms on embedded systems (Jetson, GPU-enabled platforms) with focus on performance and reliability
  • Fuse data from multiple sensors including cameras, IMUs, GPS, and other onboard systems to improve robustness
  • Support system integration, testing, and validation in lab, ground, and field environments
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues during development and deployment, working closely with engineering and production teams


Requirements


Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 5–10+ years of experience in robotics, autonomy, or real-time embedded systems
  • Strong programming skills in C++ and/or Python
  • Experience deploying software onto real robotic or embedded systems
  • Strong understanding of robotics systems including perception, state estimation, and control integration
  • Experience with ROS/ROS2 and common robotics frameworks
  • Familiarity with computer vision and machine learning tools such as OpenCV, PyTorch, or TensorFlow
  • Experience supporting DoD or federal government programs
  • Familiarity with MAVLink, PX4, ArduPilot, or similar flight stacks
  • Experience with simulation environments (Gazebo, MATLAB, etc.)
  • Knowledge of software development lifecycle in regulated environments
  • Active or ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with unmanned systems (UAS, ground, or maritime platforms)
  • Experience with SLAM, GPS-denied navigation, or contested environments
  • Experience with CUDA, TensorRT, or hardware acceleration
  • Experience integrating EO/IR or similar sensor systems
  • Experience supporting field or flight testing


Additional Requirements

  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.
  • Willingness to support flight test operations and travel as needed.


Pay and Benefits

  • Salary range: $150,000- 217,723
  • Medical, dental, and vision employee coverage fully paid by the employer
  • Paid vacation: begins to accrue on your first day of employment. Vacation hours accrue per pay period up to these limits:


  • First year through third year, three weeks annually.
  • Over four years of employment: four weeks annually
  • Over eight year of employment: five weeks annually


Six weeks rollover maximum cap

  • Automatic company contribution to 401K – 5% of earned wages, no matching required
  • Educational assistance and professional development opportunities


Benefits:


  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) 5% Match
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance


Work Location: In person

Company Description

Nokturnal AI is an advanced technology company focused on developing cutting-edge systems in aerospace, AI/ML, and defense-related integration. Our work centers on building high-performance, mission-critical solutions with a strong emphasis on innovation, precision, and operational excellence.