Principal Robotics Systems Engineer

About this role:

Pickle is on the hunt for a dynamic and driven Principal Robotics Systems Engineer to revolutionize the future of warehouse automation. This role will focus on leading system architecture and software integration for our robotics platforms, ensuring seamless interaction between software, embedded controls, mechatronics, and industrial automation systems. You’ll be responsible for designing scalable, high-performance robotic systems that power Pickle’s cutting-edge robotic unloading solutions.

What You’ll Accomplish:

• Design and architect scalable, modular, and flexible robotics software systems for industrial automation.
• Define system requirements, interfaces, and data flows between robotic hardware, embedded systems, and automation infrastructure.
• Lead software-hardware integration, ensuring real-time execution, safety, and fault tolerance.
• Develop middleware and communication frameworks (ROS2, DDS, ZeroMQ) to enable efficient data exchange and coordination.
• Collaborate with mechatronics, controls, and industrial automation teams to ensure seamless robotic operations.
• Design real-time monitoring, logging, and remote diagnostics for production-scale robotic fleets.
• Support and contribute for failure analysis and fault recovery mechanisms to enhance uptime and performance.
• Provide technical leadership and cross-functional collaboration across engineering teams.

Who You Are:

• 10+ years of experience in robotics systems design and software architecture.
• Strong background in robotics software frameworks, middleware (ROS2, DDS), and distributed systems.
• Hands-on experience with industrial robotics, warehouse automation, or robotic manipulation platforms.
• Experience integrating robotic controllers, PLCs, and automation systems.
• Knowledge of networked robotic systems, data logging, and cloud-based remote monitoring.
• Familiarity with edge computing, industrial communication protocols (MODBUS, OPC UA), and IoT integration.
• Experience designing fail-safe and fault-tolerant robotics architectures.
• Programming: Proficiency in C++, Python, and experience with real-time embedded software.
• Middleware & Architecture:ROS2, DDS, ZeroMQ, and distributed system design.
• System Integration: Embedded systems, industrial PLCs, and hardware-software co-design.
• Automation & Infrastructure: Cloud robotics, remote monitoring, and fleet management.
• Compliance & Safety: Knowledge of ISO 10218, IEC 61508, RIA R15.06 industrial safety standards.
• Experience with high-throughput robotic systems in warehouse/logistics environments.
• Background in safety-critical software and industrial robotics compliance.
• Experience with AI/ML models and reinforcement learning for robotic decision-making and optimization.
• Knowledge of containerized software deployment (Docker, Kubernetes) and DevOps for robotics.
• Strategic thinker with a systems-level approach to robotics.
• Passionate about automation, robotics, and logistics innovation.
• Strong problem-solving, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Self-driven and excited to work in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Willing and able to work from our Cambridge, MA office at least three times per week.

About Pickle Robot

Pickle Robot is a pioneer in Physical AI for supply chain applications. Today Pickle robots autonomously unload trucks, trailers, and import containers at human-scale or better performance. The alternative is manual work that is difficult, dirty, sometimes dangerous, and increasingly hard to staff at distribution centers around the globe. Pickle Robot is laser focused on automating truck unloading using generative AI, machine learning, computer vision, advanced sensors, and industrial robotics to deliver engineered products customers rely on. Pickle Robot Unload Systems work alongside people on loading docks to make the work safer, faster, and more efficient. Pickle robots are physical AI that unload trucks.

Pickle provides best-in-class benefits including health, dental, & vision insurance; unlimited vacation, along with all federal and state holidays; 401K contributions of 5% your salary, travel supplies, and other items to make your working life more fun, comfortable, and productive.