Sr. Marine Robotic Research Engineer

A global research institute is seeking a Senior Marine Robotics Research Engineer to lead strategic R&D initiatives and real-world validation for next-generation autonomous marine systems. This role is central to Honda’s long-term vision for marine autonomy, bridging early-stage research and future production. You’ll work at the intersection of robotics, mobility, and marine innovation, directly influencing technology direction and collaborating with global teams. 

Responsibilities:

• Define and execute forward-looking research strategies for marine autonomy in alignment with long-term product and business goals.
• Serve as the technical lead and mentor for a small, agile team — guiding project direction and providing hands-on support when needed.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with internal R&D, design, and production teams in Japan to facilitate technology transfer.
• Participate in industry, academic, and government collaborations focused on marine systems innovation.
• Conduct applied research in marine robotics: perception, localization, mapping, control, and motion planning.
• Support simulation and real-world prototyping, including ocean trials and system-level testing.
• Own the development of documentation and communication materials — from internal reports to research publications and strategic presentations.
• Make resource and project-level decisions — including what to build in-house vs. outsource — to keep progress aligned and efficient.

Required Skillset:

• 10+ years of industry experience in robotics, systems engineering, or related fields (5–10 years may be considered with exceptional qualifications).
• Strong understanding of robotics systems and autonomy, including marine or mobility applications.
• Prior leadership experience in a technical or strategic capacity, including mentoring junior engineers.
• Hands-on experience with:
  • Python, MATLAB, C/C++
  • ROS or ROS2
• Familiarity with motion planning, control algorithms, and robotics software stacks.
• Ability to operate across Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) — particularly TRL 3–4, bridging concept to functional prototype.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to translate research into actionable proposals and influence stakeholders.
• Comfortable with hands-on tasks in a startup-style environment — flexibility and humility are key.
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills; must be able to “sell” ideas internally and guide cross-functional alignment.
• Master’s degree in Robotics Engineering, Naval Engineering, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Machine Learning, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Willingness to travel and work overtime as needed for project execution.

Bonus Skillset:

• Background in marine autonomy or direct experience with USVs.
• Experience with machine learning, LLMs, or AI-driven robotics.
• Strong mathematical foundations including system modeling, system identification, and control theory.
• Experience navigating high-risk field-testing environments (i.e. ocean-based trials).
• Personal or professional experience with safety-critical hobbies or systems (i.e. aviation, racing, boating) is viewed favorably.

Location: San Jose, CA (Hybrid, 2-3 days onsite but dependent on project needs).
Salary Range: $180,000k - $195,000k