Robotics Technologist III
Pasadena
Tuesday, 19 May 2026
Wanted: A Robotics Technologist with skills in software, machine vision and deep learning as they apply to robotic systems or remote sensing for the Robotic Perception group which is part of the Robotic Mobility & Manipulation Section. The Robotic Mobility & Manipulation Section develops, matures, and brings to space flight, robotics technology for in-situ exploration of the solar system. Example activities include sampling, manipulation, and mobility systems for planetary bodies (Moon, Mars, Venus, Europa, Enceladus, etc…). The Section also provides robotics expertise for space flight hardware and software implementation along with mission operations support. Opportunity: To work with an enthusiastic multi-disciplinary workforce that originates and executes robotics technology development and space flight projects for terrestrial and planetary exploration applications. This role is focused on developing algorithms and software to support simulation of aerospace, planetary and military robotic vehicles in support of JPL (and other) missions. The candidate would need to work with various projects and translate their needs to configure the simulation and support any additional capabilities that the project might need. What You’ll DoDevelop and integrate machine-vision and deep-learning algorithms for robotic perception. Configure and extend simulation environments to support perception development and testing. Collaborate with robotics and mission teams to translate project needs into perception and simulation capabilities. Support real-time perception pipelines for localization, mapping, hazard detection, and motion estimation on planetary robots. Required Qualifications. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or related discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience or a PhD. in a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience. Experience developing algorithms in machine vision, deep learning, and/or robotics. Proficiency in C, C , and Python. Experience with perception methods such as segmentation, optical flow, feature tracking, SLAM, mapping, or state estimation. Experience training and deploying deep-learning models for vision tasks. Strong communication skills and ability to work across teams. Desired Qualifications: Experience applying deep learning to operational robotic systems or embedded/ GPU platforms. Familiarity with simulation tools for robotics development. Experience with synthetic data generation or use. Knowledge of field robotics and real-time perception challenges. Strong software engineering practices. JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date. For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks. The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training. The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.$149,656 - $186,888