Develop and maintain manipulation software with low-latency, reliable execution inside the real-time controls stack.
Translate state-of-the-art methods (RL / imitation policies, human-to-robot motion retargeting) into production-grade C++/Python.
Build and refine sim-to-real pipelines—hand models, domain randomization, and validation in IsaacSim / MuJoCo / Drake.
Deploy and debug manipulation capabilities on physical robots; diagnose sensor-noise, latency, and calibration issues.
Collaborate with hardware and systems engineers, feeding back on hand performance and sensor/actuator requirements.
Uphold code quality through rigorous testing, documentation, and peer review.
SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
Dexterous manipulation experience: multi-fingered grasping, in-hand manipulation, and high-DOF hand control.
Reinforcement learning for robotic control—reward design, training, and debugging—ideally applied to dexterous manipulation (imitation learning and diffusion policies a plus).
Strong Python and working C++ for real-time robotic software.
Hands-on experience training and validating policies in a physics simulator (IsaacSim, MuJoCo, or Drake).
Robotics fundamentals: kinematics, dynamics, and Jacobian-based control.
A track record of getting algorithms working on physical hardware, not simulation alone.
Nice to have: teleoperation (VR/haptic) and retargeting, tactile-sensing integration, computer vision (6D pose / point clouds), and end-effector bring-up & calibration.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
BS/MS/PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
3+ years of relevant experience in robotic manipulation or complex motion control (recent PhD graduates considered).
Evidence of taking complex algorithms from research / simulation to successful deployment on physical hardware.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
Hearing and speech to communicate
This is a direct hire. Please, no outside Agency solicitations.
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