Field Robotics Engineer

The world needs 3 TW of new solar capacity every year. The legacy approach of developing and building infrastructure is mathematically incapable of catching up.

Planted is the autonomous power deployment company. We transform power plants from bespoke construction projects into manufactured products. By integrating planning software, high-density arrays, energy storage, and field robots, we deliver more power where it's needed most.

The physics are solved; what remains is relentless execution. Led by repeat founders and an engineering core from SpaceX and Tesla, we are backed by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Piva Capital, Google, Gigascale Capital, Khosla Ventures, and RA Capital Management.

We’re scaling fast and looking for operators and engineers who want to own real pieces of the system. You don't need a traditional energy background; we care whether you can finish hard things. Come build with us.

About The Role

As a Field Robotics Engineer, you will be responsible for the reliability and uptime of Planted’s robotic installation machines at utility scale solar projects. You will lead data collection in the field, diagnose and fix issues, as well as support onsite operations such as operator training and machine logistics. As a critical bridge between R&D and project operations, you will enhance real-world robotic performance through rigorous testing and validation, while coordinating with other engineering teams to ensure timely delivery of new features. Furthermore, you will foster constructive relationships with third-party labor providers to enhance productivity and accountability. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with a talented and cross-functional engineering and business team with a high degree of empowerment and autonomy.

The salary range for this full‑time position is $90,000 - $110,000 plus stock options and benefits. Pay within the range is based on candidate experience, job-specific skills, education, and work location. The target experience for the position is 2 - 5+ years.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure reliability and uptime of deployed robotic systems by monitoring field performance, diagnosing issues, and executing timely fixes on‑site

• Conduct thorough testing and validation of the company’s robot fleet, capturing detailed performance data and incorporating results into operational plans and improvements

• Operate, maintain, and enhance field testing tools and diagnostic equipment to support data‑driven decision making

• Collaborate with different engineering teams to prioritize, refine, and deliver updates that improve robot performance and project installation success

• Ensure technical documentation and training procedures stay up to date

• Deliver clear, structured training to external partners to enable safe and efficient use of the company’s robotic installation machines

• Build detailed project schedules that reflect field performance, outline key milestones and ensure commercial projects stay on track

• Serve as a trusted representative of the company when engaging with external partners and customers

QUALIFICATIONS

• 2+ years experience, including field experience

• Willingness to travel up to 75% of the time, with weeklong stays required

• Strong analytical and problem solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex technical issues in dynamic environments

• Proven adaptability to fast‑changing conditions, shifting priorities, and evolving project requirements

• Ability to remain calm, focused, and effective under pressure while navigating ambiguity

• Comfort working independently in the field while understanding when and how to elevate issues

• Enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions

• Strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills

• Experience with, or ability to learn to operate, construction equipment like skid steers, telehandlers, and excavators

• Desire to work in a fast‑paced startup environment

• Located in the SF Bay Area or able to relocate, and able to be in‑person or at project sites up to 5‑days per week

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in robotics

• Experience in construction, energy infrastructure, agriculture, or other comparable natural resources

• Experience with operations in outdoor environments

• Experience building ground‑mount solar power plants

*A note on qualifications: Many people only apply for jobs if they believe they can perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and will consider equivalent combinations of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

PHYSICAL AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift 50 lbs

• Ability to work outdoors and perform hands‑on work for extended periods of time

• This position will require travel

Philosophy On Qualifications And Compensation

Many people only apply for jobs if they believe they can perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and will consider equivalent combinations of knowledge, skills, education, and experience. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

Additionally, we believe compensation should reflect the value people bring and give them a real stake in what we're building. Our total compensation package includes a base salary, meaningful equity through stock options, and benefits including company holidays, paid time off (PTO), and in‑office lunches. Individual pay may vary within the posted range and is determined by a number of factors including relevant experience, skills, and location.

How We Work

We are using sunlight, software, and robots to power the world. It is historic work, and it is hard work. If you want a paved, predictable path, this isn’t for you. If you’d rather invent the path, this is the best job you’ll ever have.

• Call it out. We put big robots in the field alongside our crews and partners. Anyone can stop any operation at any time. The same trust runs everywhere: a bug in the code, a flaw in the plan, a risk in the dirt, a design that no longer makes sense. Say it while it’s small and cheap to fix, directly to the person who can fix it. Sometimes that person is you.

• Commit and complete. We work problems, not tasks. A confident guess is not a commitment; “I’ll find out by Thursday” is. If a date slips, say it early and bring the new plan. Every decision has one owner: bring data, argue hard, push back in the room, then the owner calls it and we lock arms. Execution compounds.

• Convention isn’t evidence. “Industry standard” is a red flag. Most conventions were answers to constraints that no longer exist. We respect physics and obey the law. Everything else is a choice, and we get to make it.

• Let machines do the work. We are system builders: AI and robots do repetitive work in the field and in the office. Every task a machine takes over is a person out of harm’s way or off the critical path. Solve a problem once, then build the tool, write the spec, and commit the doc so nobody has to solve it again. Doing it by hand once is fine. Twice means we need a tool.

Planted is an equal opportunity employer committed to growing inclusively, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, medical condition, age, or veteran status. However you identify, or whatever background you bring with you, please apply. We look forward to hearing from you.