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Robotics Perception Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Robot Perception Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$70K - $300K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Robotics Perception Engineer to own and advance perception capabilities for our federal autonomy programs. In this role, you will lead development of the perception stack ...

We're looking for a Senior Robotics Perception Engineer to own and advance perception capabilities for our federal autonomy programs. In this role, you will lead development of the perception stack ...

Perception Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

This role bridges data science, software engineering, and robotics to deliver reliable, high‑throughput perception performance on edge hardware. What You'll Own: * Design, train, validate and fine ...

Senior Perception Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $169K/yr

Chef Robotics is accelerating the deployment of intelligent machines in the physical world ... As a Perception Engineer, you will own the full stack of how our robots see and understand the ...

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Lead Perception Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

Teleo, a robotics company, is transforming construction heavy equipment into autonomous robots for commercial and defense applications. They are seeking a Lead Perception Engineer to build perception ...

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Robotics Perception Engineer information

What are Robotics Perception Engineers?

Robotics Perception Engineers are professionals who specialize in enabling robots to interpret and understand their environment using sensors and data processing algorithms. They work on developing and implementing computer vision, sensor fusion, and machine learning techniques so that robots can perceive objects, people, and surroundings. Their work is crucial for applications such as autonomous vehicles, drones, industrial automation, and service robots. By improving a robot's ability to 'see' and make sense of the world, they help create safer and more effective robotic systems.

What is the difference between Robotics Perception Engineer vs Computer Vision Engineer?

AspectRobotics Perception EngineerComputer Vision Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Robotics, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering; experience with perception algorithmsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; strong programming skills in vision processing
Work EnvironmentRobotics labs, autonomous vehicle companies, industrial automationSoftware companies, tech startups, research labs focusing on image and video analysis
Industry UsageAutonomous vehicles, robotics, manufacturingHealthcare, security, consumer electronics, automotive

Robotics Perception Engineers focus on developing perception systems specifically for robots, integrating sensors and perception algorithms for navigation and interaction. Computer Vision Engineers primarily develop algorithms for interpreting visual data across various applications. While both roles require strong programming and understanding of perception, Robotics Perception Engineers specialize in sensor fusion and real-time processing within robotic systems, whereas Computer Vision Engineers work more broadly on image analysis and recognition tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by Robotics Perception Engineers when integrating new sensors into autonomous systems?

Robotics Perception Engineers often encounter challenges such as sensor calibration, data synchronization, and managing varying data quality when integrating new sensors. Ensuring that sensor data is accurately aligned in time and space is crucial for reliable perception in autonomous systems. Additionally, engineers must address the complexities of fusing data from multiple modalities (like cameras, LiDAR, or radar) while optimizing processing efficiency. Close collaboration with hardware and software teams is essential to troubleshoot integration issues and achieve robust, real-time perception.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Robotics Perception Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robotics Perception Engineer, you need strong expertise in computer vision, sensor fusion, machine learning, and proficiency in programming languages like C++ and Python, often supported by a degree in robotics, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools and frameworks such as ROS (Robot Operating System), OpenCV, and deep learning libraries, as well as experience with sensors like LiDAR and cameras, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability help set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for enabling robots to accurately interpret and interact with their environment, leading to robust and reliable autonomous systems.
What cities in California are hiring for Robotics Perception Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Robotics Perception Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Robotics Perception Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Robotics Software Engineer

Robotics Software Engineer

Oraapps Inc

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Robotics Software Engineer (Perception & Localization)

Job Location: Seattle, WA or San Francisco, CA (Onsite)

Job Type: Full-Time

Very Important:

  • Must work onsite in Seattle, WA or San Francisco, CA
  • 2+ Years of Robotics Software Engineering Experience Required
  • Experience building software for real-world robotic or edge systems
  • Experience with Computer Vision and Sensor Fusion
  • Startup experience mandatory 
Must Have:
  • 2+ years of Robotics Software Engineering experience
  • Experience developing software for robotic or edge devices
  • Strong Computer Vision experience for robotics applications
  • Experience with Perception and Localization systems
  • Sensor Fusion experience (GNSS, IMU, Depth Sensors)
  • Production software deployment experience
  • Experience working in fast-paced engineering environments
  • Strong software development skills
  • High ownership mindset and ability to work independently
  • Experience using AI coding tools such as Claude
Preferred:
  • Experience at early-stage, high-growth startups
  • Experience at companies such as Waymo, Cruise, Zoox, Skydio, Flock Safety, or similar autonomy companies
  • Strong robotics perception architecture experience
  • Experience deploying software to field-operated autonomous systems
  • Top-tier academic background
Keywords:

Robotics, Perception, Localization, Computer Vision, Sensor Fusion, GNSS, IMU, Depth Sensors, Edge Computing, Autonomous Systems, Robotics Software Engineer, Perception Engineer, Localization Engineer, AI, Claude, Agricultural Robotics, Startup, Waymo, Cruise, Zoox, Skydio.