Robotics Software Engineer

Robotics Software Engineer – (USV/ASV)

Are you interested in building real-world autonomy systems that operate in some of the most challenging environments on the planet?

I’m working with a venture-backed maritime defence startup developing next-generation autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) designed to protect critical infrastructure and redefine naval capability.

This is a hands-on autonomy role, focused on building and deploying path planning and decision-making systems directly onto operational USVs.

What you’ll be doing:

• Designing and implementing advanced path planning algorithms (graph-based, APF, etc.)
• Working with edge compute systems to enable real-time decision making in constrained environments
• Building robust deployment pipelines for software running on live vehicles
• Integrating data from multi-sensor systems to drive autonomy and navigation
• Testing and refining algorithms in simulation and real maritime environments

What they’re looking for:

• Strong experience with path planning / navigation algorithms
• Hands-on experience with Linux (ideally embedded / Yocto environments)
• Strong programming skills (C++, Python)
• Someone comfortable operating in a fast-moving, engineering-led environment

Why this role?

• Small team, high ownership and real impact
• Work on physical autonomous systems, not just simulations
• See your work deployed in real-world maritime operations
• Be part of a company aiming to fundamentally change naval capability

They can pay up to $200k plus equity. Based in Los Angeles.

Please reach out to View email address on darwinrecruitment.com to find out more.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Callum Stephens