Apptronik

Lead Software Engineer - Dexterous Manipulation

Austin, TX

Sponsorship not specifiedDetected 13 days ago

PythonC++AlgorithmsCode ReviewComputer VisionLogisticsRoboticsElectrical EngineeringHardware DesignAR/VRResearchLeadershipMentoring

About the role

This role is responsible for leading the development of learning-based dexterous control algorithms that unlock the full potential of state-of-the-art robotic hand hardware.
This role will bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and scalable, reliable production software.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES or KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Apptronik is a human-centered robotics company developing AI-powered robots to support humanity in every facet of life.
Drive the specifications for next-generation hardware.
As a technical lead, they will not only design the core software architecture but also influence hardware design to achieve world-class manipulation capabilities.
Own the decision-making process for balancing autonomous logic with high-fidelity teleoperation, ensuring the architecture is scalable for future hardware generations.
Hardware Design Influence: Drive the specifications for next-generation hardware. Define the requirements for sensing, degrees of freedom, and torque profiles.
Perform and direct the integration of state-of-the-art research.
Research & Innovation: Perform and direct the integration of state-of-the-art research.

Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
Proficiency in Python, with experience building real-time robotic software stacks.
Experience with physics engines such as IsaacSim, MuJoCo, or Drake for policy training and validation.
Experience with VR/haptic interfaces and retargeting algorithms for human-in-the-loop control.

Robotic Kinematics: Strong foundation in spatial transformations, Jacobian-based control, and constrained optimization.
Teleoperation: Experience with VR/haptic interfaces and retargeting algorithms for human-in-the-loop control.
Tactile Sensing: Experience integrating tactile/haptic feedback into manipulation pipelines.
Hardware Bring-up: Experience with the initial calibration and tuning of high-DOF robotic end-effectors.
BS/MS/PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
5+ years of relevant experience (or 3+ years with a PhD) specifically focused on robotic manipulation or complex motion control.
A proven track record of taking complex algorithms from a research/simulation environment and successfully deploying them on physical hardware.

Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
Our flagship humanoid robot, Apollo, is built to collaborate thoughtfully with people, starting with critical industries such as manufacturing and logistics, with future applications in healthcare, the home, and beyond.

Act as a force multiplier across the organization.
Beyond code reviews, foster a culture of technical rigor, setting the bar for architectural excellence and mentoring the next generation of robotics leaders.

This listing is sourced directly from Apptronik's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.