Senior Roboticist

Overview

We are seeking a Senior Roboticist to join our team in Richland, WA
. On-site preferred with flexibility for remote support. Travels periodically to DOE facilities, utilities, and vendor/partner sites (10-25%).

• Performs deep hands‑on expertise in robotic systems, simulation environments, and multi‑platform integration.
• Technical leader and creative problem‑solver who thrives at the intersection of automation, digital modeling, and real‑world deployment.
• Customizing, deploying, and simulating robotic platforms in hazardous and remote environments—supporting the broader mission of nuclear decontamination & decommissioning (D&D), power plant modernization, and digital twin integration for predictive, data‑driven operations.
• This role emphasizes the import of diverse industrial robotics experience and simulation skillsets, with training and mentorship available for domain‑specific nuclear applications.
• Opportunity to work at the forefront of autonomous systems applied to real‑world, high‑impact nuclear applications.
• Collaborative innovation culture with access to leading labs, vendors, and national missions.
• Flexible working, and pathways for leadership or technical specialization.
• Role in shaping the strategic direction of autonomy within a rapidly growing Robotics Division.
• Leads design, integration, and deployment of robotic systems across varied nuclear and industrial applications.
• Customizes and optimizes control logic, motion planning, and end‑effector configurations for diverse platforms.
• Simulates robotic workflows within digital plant environments to assess reachability, interference, and process validation.
• Collaborates with digital engineering teams to integrate robotics into digital twin platforms for site‑wide planning, monitoring, and predictive maintenance.
• Leverages simulation environments (e.g., Ignition Gazebo, RViz) to de‑risk robotic deployment and support mission rehearsal and remote oversight.
• Programs and validates robots across multiple OEMs (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, Yaskawa, UR, Boston Dynamics, Clearpath).
• Develops modular interfaces for mobile platforms (UGV/UAV) and fixed base robotic arms.
• Mentors junior roboticists and coordinate with partner integrators for field trials, demos, and deployments.
• Performs other duties as required.

• Requires B.S. or M.S. in Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of hands‑on experience deploying and programming industrial robotic systems across at least two sectors.
• Proficiency in robotic programming (Python, C++, ROS, OEM‑specific languages) and use of simulation or digital prototyping tools.
• Familiarity with robotic end‑of‑arm tooling (EOAT), mobile platforms, safety systems, and fixture design.
• Experience integrating sensors (LiDAR, 3D vision, force/torque, GPS/INS) for autonomous operations.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt robotic systems for unconventional, variable environments.
• Experience with robotic simulation environments such as Ignition Gazebo, RViz, Move It, or other ROS‑integrated simulation frameworks preferred.
• Background in digital twin integration, including clash detection, path validation, and
• Simulation of robotic operations within BIM/IFC‑based or CAD‑derived plant models preferred.
• Familiarity with quick‑change EOAT systems including ATI, ASS< EOAT, and EINS preferred.
• Exposure to remote or high‑consequence industrial sectors (e.g., nuclear, aerospace, defense, oil & gas) preferred.
• Understanding of digital communication protocols (ROS 2, MQTT, OPC‑UA) for robotic system telemetry and supervisory control, including wireless mesh systems preferred.
• Experience supporting demonstrations or integration at DOE national labs or utility pilot sites preferred.
• Must be a U.S. citizen in order to be considered.

At Atkins

Réalis, our values—Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, and Excellence—are more than just words. They are the foundation of who we are and how we work. These principles shape our culture, guide our decisions, and inspire us to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to grow, succeed, and make a meaningful impact. Depending on…