Software Controls Engineer

We are a leading subsea robotics company dedicated to developing cutting‑edge autonomous and remotely operated underwater systems. Our team is composed of engineers and scientists passionate about pushing the limits of subsea technology to enable exploration, inspection, and intervention in some of the most challenging environments on Earth.

We are seeking a mid‑to‑senior level Software Controls Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in C++ and Python, with expertise in robotics frameworks like ROS. This role will focus on developing and optimizing control algorithms, integrating sensor data, and improving autonomy for subsea robotic systems. You will have the opportunity to develop, test and deploy software on new and existing hardware platforms working in real commercial environments at depths of up to 3km.

If you thrive in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment and enjoy solving complex real‑world challenges, we want to hear from you.

• Develop and implement real‑time control software for subsea robotic systems.
• Design, test, and optimize motion planning, state estimation, and control algorithms.
• Integrate sensor data (IMUs, cameras, sonar, etc.) into robotic control architectures.
• Use ROS for software development, simulation, and deployment.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and software teams to refine system architecture.
• Implement robust software solutions that adhere to industry safety and reliability standards.
• Support system testing in lab environments and field deployments.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, human‑computer interaction, User Experience Design, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in software engineering for robotics or automation.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python for real‑time and embedded applications.
• Experience with ROS and middleware communication (e.g., DDS, ZeroMQ, MQTT).
• Strong background in control systems, kinematics, and motion planning.
• Experience with integrating and processing data from sensors (IMU, sonar, cameras, etc.).
• Knowledge of Linux‑based development and deployment.
• Experience with simulation environments (Gazebo, Isaac‑Sim, or similar).
• Familiarity with software development best practices (version control, CI/CD, testing frameworks).

• The employee is regularly required to remain in a stationary position, operating a computer and other office productivity machinery.
• The employee must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.
• The employee must be able to observe details at close range.

• This job operates in a professional office environment and in industrial environments, using standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
• The role may require domestic and potentially international travel of up to 10%.
• The performance of this position may also occasionally require exposure to the manufacturing areas, which may require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses with side shields and mandatory hearing protection.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

In addition, Nauticus Robotics is a federal contractor required to adhere to the Arms Export Control Act of 1976, which governs the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). As a result, this position may include access to export‑controlled information that is subject to U.S. export control laws. Export control laws require employers to restrict access to export‑controlled information or to obtain export licences for non‑U.S. person employees if their positions require access to information governed by ITAR.

Nauticus Robotics is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, immigration status, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.