New

Research Engineer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Aug 09, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary The Autonomous Robotics and Control Group at Caltech seeks a Research Engineer to help us develop the next generation of autonomous systems and algorithms for Earth and space applications. Our group doesn't just develop new theories, but puts them to the test in the real world. From the famous walking/flying hybrid LEO, to AI/ML controls, supporting science with UAVs and our spacecraft simulator, we do a wide range of research supporting a broad spectrum of applications. We are looking for someone to help us design, integrate, and test our concepts and ideas. Example tasks could include designing autonomy algorithm test platforms, mounting payloads, supporting test campaigns, coding/configuring simulations, documentation, and solution-space trade studies. This position is perfect for someone who considers themselves a 'generalist' and has a little bit of knowledge spanning many different fields. It also provides a great opportunity to broaden your knowledge base as you will be exposed to many different projects and disciplines at both a practical and theoretical level. Essential Job Duties Support robotics research within both a lab and field environment. This involves design and manufacture (3D modeling, rapid prototyping, etc.), software development (hardware drivers, motion planning, tracking control), and testing (deployment of code on physical hardware, operation of robots). Develop simulations of wheeled vehicles using system identification techniques on real-world data to improve accuracy.Simulations will also need to be configured for differing environmental conditions and run in CI/CD environments. Write documentation and complete trade studies of new designs to help guide future research within the lab. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, or robotics. Experience in either coding (C++ or Python), controls, machine learning/AI, space systems, or robotics. Ability to adapt to new fields to learn new skills in support of a plethora of exciting projects. Preferred Qualifications Practical experience in robotics, signal processing, and software implementation. Experience with software packages including ROS, Linux, C++, and Python. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $59,800 to $85,900 per year The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.