Robotics Research Engineer

Robotics Research Engineer – AERIS Lab

The Autonomous Experimental Robotics and Intelligent Systems (AERIS) Lab in the Department of Computer Science at NC State University is hiring a Robotics Research Engineer, the lab’s first dedicated engineering hire. AERIS develops robust, intelligent unmanned systems and sensor systems. The lab designs, builds, and field‑tests multicopters, fixed‑wing aircraft, and other small UAS platforms. Facilities include a brand‑new indoor flight arena with motion capture, and access to Lake Wheeler Road Field Laboratory, a 1,500‑acre FAA‑approved research site with RTK GPS and a dedicated UAS deployment trailer.

• Research Engineering & Development (70%) – design, build, integrate, and test UAS platforms and sensor systems; develop and maintain software in ROS/ROS2 for autonomous navigation, perception, and control; implement embedded systems for real‑time sensing, actuation, and communication; support flight testing at indoor and outdoor facilities; collaborate with students to translate research algorithms into working implementations.
• Lab Operations & Equipment Management (20%) – maintain lab equipment inventory, oversee the lab truck and coordinate field deployment logistics, ensure equipment readiness and safety compliance, manage procurement of parts and supplies, and maintain software infrastructure.
• Technical Collaboration (10%) – work alongside graduate and undergraduate researchers on hardware/software integration; contribute technical expertise to research discussions and problem‑solving; opportunity to contribute to publications and proposals.
• Other responsibilities – occasional travel for field testing at remote sites and sponsor demonstrations; perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, or a related field. An equivalent combination of training with demonstrated experience in robotics systems development may also be considered.
• Or a Master’s degree in one of the above fields.

Other Required Qualifications

• Proficiency with ROS or ROS
  2.
• Programming experience in Python and C/C++.
• Experience with embedded systems and microcontrollers.
• Familiarity with Linux development environments.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 6 months).

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field, with demonstrated experience in robotics systems development.
• Experience with PCB design and fabrication.
• Experience with flight controller firmware (PX4, Ardu Pilot).
• Experience with real‑time systems.
• Hands‑on experience building, flying, and maintaining UAS platforms.
• Experience with motion capture systems (Vicon or similar).
• Experience with 3D printing and rapid prototyping.

• Valid NC driver’s license required to drive lab truck to Lake Wheeler Road Field Laboratory as needed.
• FAA Part 107 certification required (or willingness to obtain within 6 months of hire).

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome.