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Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation

Persona AI is developing and commercializing rugged, multi-purpose humanoid robots that perform real work. Persona’s founding team has a decades-long history in humanoid robotics, bionics, and product development delivering robust hardware that has touched the stars, worked miles below the surface of the ocean, roamed Disney Parks, and has even been featured on a US postage stamp. Our mission is focused squarely on shipping beautiful, reliable products at massive scale, while building a customer-focused team to achieve these aims.

We're looking for exceptional people who dream big, thrive on challenges, and love seeing their designs come to life. We are primarily interested in candidates who have shipped products in the fields of autonomy, robotics, consumer products, medical devices, automotive, or aerospace. We also value advanced degrees and deep expertise.

As an inaugural engineer at Persona, you will have an incredible opportunity to shape the design of Persona’s humanoid robots, while also helping set the culture of the company. If you're passionate about cutting-edge technology and want to be part of a world-class team we'd love to hear from you.

Your Role:

  • Design and implement advanced, dexterous manipulation algorithms for humanoid robots with multi-fingered hands, including precise grasping, in-hand manipulation, and fine motor control.

  • Develop and optimize motion planning algorithms for complex, dexterous manipulation tasks, considering intricate hand kinematics, object manipulation constraints, and task-space requirements.

  • Implement robust control strategies for precise and dexterous manipulation, including force control, impedance control, and hybrid control specifically tailored for multi-fingered hands.

  • Develop algorithms for contact modeling and force estimation, enabling robust manipulation in contact-rich environments with a focus on tactile sensing and feedback for dexterous tasks.

  • Join a team developing cutting-edge technology to improve the safety of humanoid robots in manufacturing.

  • Stay up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in dexterous robotic manipulation and control.

We’re Looking For:

  • BS, MS, or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field.

  • 7+ years of experience (5+ with advanced degree) in robotics with a strong emphasis on dexterous hand control and object manipulation.

  • Strong background in motion planning, control theory, and optimization, specifically for dexterous manipulation.

  • Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing advanced dexterous manipulation algorithms.

  • Experience with contact modeling, force estimation, and tactile sensing for dexterous manipulation.

  • Proficiency in C++, Python, and relevant robotics libraries (e.g., MoveIt!, Drake, OpenRAVE).

  • Experience with trajectory optimization libraries (e.g., IPOPT, SNOPT, qpOASES).

  • Demonstrated understanding and application of both classical control and optimization techniques, and modern machine learning methods for manipulation.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced startup environment.

Preferred or Bonus Qualifications:

  • Experience with simulators (e.g., MuJoCo, Isaac Sim) specifically for simulating dexterous hands and manipulation.

  • Extensive experience with force/torque sensors and advanced tactile sensing systems for dexterous manipulation.

  • Experience with machine learning for dexterous manipulation, including learning grasp strategies and in-hand manipulation skills.

  • Publications in top-tier robotics conferences focusing on dexterous manipulation.

  • Experience in a humanoid robot startup environment.

Why join Persona AI?

  • You'll shape technology that's redefining the possibilities of robotics and human interaction.

  • Work alongside passionate teammates who value diversity, creativity, and continuous learning.

  • Enjoy full access to advanced prototyping tools, labs, and the freedom to experiment and innovate.

  • We offer competitive compensation, excellent benefits, flexible work environment, and equity opportunities.

Persona AI embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Average salary estimate

$140000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$120000K
$160000K

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What You Should Know About Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation , persona service

At Persona AI, we are on a thrilling journey of developing rugged, multi-purpose humanoid robots that do real work, and we are excited to welcome a Robotics Software Engineer specializing in Manipulation to our talented team. With a founding team rich in humanoid robotics and bionics, our mission revolves around delivering robust hardware that has literally reached the stars and ventured deep into the oceans. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and implement advanced manipulation algorithms for our humanoid robots with dexterous, multi-fingered hands. You'll be at the forefront of designing precise grasping and in-hand manipulation techniques while optimizing motion planning for complex tasks. If you have a strong background in robotics, motion planning, and control theory and are eager to create advanced control strategies specifically for dexterous manipulation, this is the place for you. We value candidates with 7+ years of experience, particularly those who have made contributions to autonomy, robotics, consumer products, or medical devices. If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of robotics technology and want to be part of a culture that values diversity and creativity, we would love to hear from you! With competitive compensation, flexible working conditions, and an environment that promotes innovation, Persona AI is where you can truly bring your designs to life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation Role at persona service
What are the main responsibilities of a Robotics Software Engineer specializing in Manipulation at Persona AI?

As a Robotics Software Engineer in Manipulation at Persona AI, your key responsibilities will include designing and implementing advanced manipulation algorithms for our humanoid robots. You'll work on precise grasping, in-hand manipulation, and developing motion planning algorithms tailored for intricate tasks. You'll apply your skills in control theory, optimization, and contact modeling to enhance dexterous manipulation performance, ensuring our robots can function effectively in various environments.

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What qualifications are required for the Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation position at Persona AI?

Candidate applicants for the Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation role at Persona AI should ideally hold a BS, MS, or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field. Additionally, possessing over 7 years of experience in robotics, especially in dexterous hand control and object manipulation, is essential. Familiarity with programming languages like C++ and Python, along with knowledge of robotics libraries such as MoveIt! or Drake, will greatly enhance your candidacy.

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What kind of projects can a Robotics Software Engineer expect to work on at Persona AI?

At Persona AI, a Robotics Software Engineer in Manipulation will engage in exciting projects that involve developing advanced algorithms for dexterous manipulation of our humanoid robots. You'll tackle challenges related to force control, contact modeling, and tactile sensing to improve functionality. The work will focus on real-world applications like enhancing the safety of robots in manufacturing settings, making each project stimulating and impactful.

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Is experience with machine learning important for the Robotics Software Engineer role at Persona AI?

Yes! Experience with machine learning is an advantageous qualification for the Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation role at Persona AI. Understanding how to apply machine learning for dexterous manipulation, including grasp strategies and in-hand manipulation skills, can give you a significant edge in developing innovative solutions within our team.

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What is the team culture like at Persona AI for Robotics Software Engineers?

The team culture at Persona AI for Robotics Software Engineers is vibrant, inclusive, and innovation-driven. We value diverse backgrounds and perspectives, fostering an environment where creativity and continuous learning are paramount. As a member of our team, you can expect collaboration with passionate colleagues who are equally committed to shaping the future of robotics technology.

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Common Interview Questions for Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation
Can you explain a dexterous manipulation algorithm you've developed?

In responding to this question, choose an algorithm that showcases your expertise in dexterous manipulation. Detail the challenge, your approach to designing the algorithm, the tools and programming languages you used, and the results achieved. Make sure to highlight how your algorithm improved the robot’s performance in practical applications.

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What is your experience with motion planning in complex environments?

Discuss specific experiences where you've dealt with motion planning for dexterous manipulation, focusing on key challenges faced in complex environments. Provide a detailed explanation of strategies employed, such as optimization techniques and how you ensured the robot’s effectiveness and safety while adapting to dynamic constraints.

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How do you ensure that your algorithms are robust in contact-rich environments?

Highlight your methodologies for developing control strategies that account for uncertainties and variations in contact-rich environments. Discuss techniques like contact modeling and force estimation and provide insights into how you incorporate feedback systems to enhance algorithm robustness.

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What programming languages and libraries are you proficient in for robotics software development?

When answering this question, list the programming languages you are skilled in, emphasizing C++ and Python, which are crucial for this role. Mention relevant libraries you’ve worked with, such as MoveIt!, Drake, and any experience with trajectory optimization libraries that relate to dexterous manipulation, showcasing your technical expertise.

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Can you provide an example of a successful project you worked on in the field of robotics?

Choose a project that aligns with the responsibilities at Persona AI. Describe your role and contributions, the technologies involved, the challenges faced, and the innovations achieved. Discuss the project outcome and any lessons learned that have further developed your skills, particularly those related to dexterous manipulation.

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How do you stay updated with the latest trends in robotic manipulation?

Discuss your methods for keeping current with advancements in the field, such as attending robotics conferences, participating in workshops, or engaging with research communities. Highlight any specific literature or breakthroughs that particularly inspire you and align with your role as a Robotics Software Engineer, Manipulation.

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What experience do you have with tactile sensing systems in robotics?

Reflect on your relevant experience with tactile sensing systems, discussing specific projects where you implemented such systems for dexterous manipulation. Emphasize how these systems contributed to enhanced robot performance and your understanding of their integration with algorithms for successful outcomes.

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How do you approach troubleshooting and debugging algorithms in robotics?

Explain your systematic approaches to troubleshooting and debugging, outlining methods like breakpoints, logging, testing in simulations, or real-world testing. Elaborate on a specific instance where your troubleshooting led to a significant improvement in robot performance.

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What role does teamwork play in your development work in robotics?

Discuss your view on teamwork, particularly in a dynamic field like robotics. Provide examples of collaboration with cross-functional teams, how communication has played a role in successfully completing projects, and your contributions to fostering a positive team environment.

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Why do you want to work at Persona AI as a Robotics Software Engineer?

In your answer, align your passions and career goals with Persona AI's mission and projects. Highlight aspects of the company culture that attract you, such as their commitment to innovation and diversity, and express your excitement about contributing to cutting-edge technology and humanitarian solutions tailored for humanoid robots.

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DATE POSTED
April 12, 2025

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