Principal Robotics Software Engineer - Perception / SLAM

Rovco

Rovco

Software Engineering
Bristol, UK
Posted 6+ months ago
Software Engineering · Bristol · Hybrid Remote

Principal Robotics Software Engineer - Perception / SLAM

We focus on helping the world become a cleaner, greener, and safer place by deploying technology for good and accelerating the transition to renewable energy - Come join us!

We usually respond within a week

At Rovco and Vaarst, we have a bias for action and innovation, all while acting with integrity. Join us to work in an environment that values both creativity and ethical conduct, where visionary ideas come to life.

Location: Bristol, UK - Hybrid 2+ days in office per week

Salary: £100,000+

About Rovco/Vaarst

Rovco/Vaarst mission is to accelerate the energy transition to renewables with a focus on offshore wind. We’re using artificial intelligence, autonomy, computer vision and marine robotics to create a difference in the world with underwater technology for our clients in offshore renewable energy and the subsea industry.

Founded in 2015 we’ve announced funding of more than £50 million, been voted one of the most innovative and sustainable companies working towards net zero and won awards for Best use of AI and Best technology innovation.

Latest Rovco/Vaarst updates

Discover your place in a hybrid team of 190+ people that’s growing rapidly and celebrates diversity knowing that every perspective is a valuable part of our success and that empowers you to achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.

Principal Robotics Software Engineer - Perception / SLAM

Are you an innovative Principal Software Engineer with a passion for solving complex problems in robotics, computer vision, or SLAM? Do you thrive on leading and mentoring talented teams while working on groundbreaking technologies? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

As Principal Software Engineer at Vaarst you'll focus on strategising and leading the development of exciting new capabilities to improve and reduce the cost of offshore windfarm inspection, including enhancing our SubSLAM X2 Camera system and autonomous systems.

Within your cross-functional teams, you will lead and mentor through the entire software development lifecycle, including the design, implementation, testing and maintenance of our products. Working primarily in C++ and Python, you will employ high-quality software engineering principles and practices. You will be actively engaged in building quality solutions within an Agile process, including peer reviews, continuous improvement and integration.

You will collaborate with our in-house Research and Robotics teams to mature cutting-edge research into well-tested, production-ready code. This role will also allow you to participate in and lead field trials to test and evaluate new functionality in the real world.

Your expertise and leadership will be pivotal in advancing clean energy technologies and the broader field of maritime robotics.

Other companies might call this: Robotics Engineer, SLAM Engineer, Computer vision engineer, Lead Engineer, Principal Engineer

Objectives & Responsibilities:

Rovco/Vaarst is an exciting and dynamic environment meaning these are likely to change as we grow. Upon joining your objectives and responsibilities will include:

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be the strategic and technical leader, guiding cross-functional teams through the entire software development lifecycle. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Leading Development: Strategize and spearhead the creation of new capabilities for our SubSLAM X2 Camera system and autonomous systems, ensuring top-tier performance and reliability.
  • Mentoring and Coaching: Provide mentorship to team members, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and growth.
  • Hands-On Engineering: Engage in designing, implementing, testing, and maintaining high-quality software primarily using C++ and Python, adhering to best practices in software engineering.
  • Agile Collaboration: Work within an Agile framework, conducting peer reviews, continuous improvement, and integration to deliver robust solutions.
  • Field Trials and Real-World Impact: Lead and participate in field trials to test and evaluate new functionalities, directly contributing to the advancement of clean energy technologies.

You should apply if you have:

We know it’s tough, but please try to avoid the confidence gap. You don’t have to match all the listed requirements exactly to be considered for this role:

  • Experience in production-level software development with modern C++ and Python.
  • Proven track record of delivering successful products and leading technical development teams.
  • Experience with Computer Vision techniques, such as SLAM, Visual Odometry, and Structure from Motion.
  • Familiarity with Git, Docker, Jenkins, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing.
  • Solid experience with Linux/Ubuntu environments.
  • Experience with ROS or similar distributed systems.
  • Proficiency in libraries such as Eigen and Numpy.
  • Knowledge of ARM and embedded development
  • Grow together with Rovco/Vaarst where you will learn these skills or build on your expertise:

    • Developing and deploying Robotic Autonomous Systems.
    • Robotics sensors such as Cameras, IMU, GPS, Sonar, Lidar, etc.
    • 3D and Video data, including mesh and point clouds.
    • Web development technologies, such as: Flask, TypeScript, React, Three.js, Electro

    Benefits

    People join Rovco/Vaarst because they are excited by the possibility of leaving their own mark on the world and developing solutions that solve real world problems. Although we share the same vision, we value varied perspectives, and we adapt to fit different people from all walks of life. Not only does that make for a genuinely awesome team of colleagues, but it also makes day-to-day life more interesting, and it’s how we keep evolving and getting better at what we do.

    What’s in it for you? You’ll get to work with a passionate, smart and highly driven team with an incredible range of skills.

    In addition, you’ll get an extensive range of benefits so you can focus on doing your very best work:

    • Flexible working options including compressed hours
    • Hybrid working, up to 3 days from home
    • 33 days annual leave increasing 2 days a year up to 43 days after 6 years (inclusive of bank holidays)
    • Private medical insurance, including Dental & Optical
    • Career and learning development through paid courses, conferences and events
    • Curiosity fund – up to £500 to spend on learning which is not role related
    • Up to 10% company bonus
    • Pension up to 6% company contribution
    • Life assurance paid at 4X salary
    • Volunteering day, to give back to your local community
    • Enhanced maternity and adoption leave
    • Cycle to work scheme
    • Recognition & rewards for doing great work and living our values and behaviours

    Join Rovco in our mission to make the world a cleaner, greener and safer place by deploying technology for good.

    Interview Process

    At Rovco, we've designed a straightforward interview process to ensure the best fit for both you and the company. We have adopted anonymised recruitment. This means that your name, date of birth and other personal details will not be seen by the hiring team.

        • Application: Begin by submitting your application with your CV, highlighting your skills and experience relevant to the job. Answer key questions on elements that are important to the role.
        • Talent Partner Interview: We will tell you more about the role, the team and Vaarst’s mission. This is a two-way conversation; we want to learn about your motivation, what you can bring to Vaarst, and provide answers to your questions.
        • Aptitude Test: Demonstrate your critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and workplace personality through an aptitude test. It includes a timed cognitive exercise and a workplace personality questionnaire.
        • Technical Interview: Engage in a 45 minute technical interview with our VP of Robotics and Autonomy We'll discuss our technologies, key skills, and team dynamics. As always, feel free to ask any questions you may have.
        • Team Interview: Engage in a 1.5 hours interview with a few team members. Experience the role firsthand and share your skills and experience. We'll our demo our technology and you'll meet your future colleagues.
        • Executive Conversation: Meet with an executive for a 30-minute discussion. This is your opportunity to express your thoughts on the role and ask any final questions. We'll clarify expectations and ensure this role aligns with your aspirations.
        • Offer! If you are successful in the process, you'll receive an offer to join Rovco and become part of our team.

    We value the diversity of our teams and are committed to supporting and welcoming individuals from all backgrounds, knowing that every perspective is a valuable part of our success. Should you require any reasonable adjustment throughout the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to let a member of the Talent team know.


    Empower change through technology, Join Rovco/Vaarst

    Department
    Software Engineering
    Locations
    Bristol
    Remote status
    Hybrid Remote

    Bristol

    Company culture

    As an organisation, we know that in order to achieve our goals we need to attract, develop and retain only the very best people and encourage their growth through our company.

    As a fast-growing business in an ever-changing environment, we truly recognise how important it is to be aware of our roots, to visualise the mission we are working towards and to embrace our values to help us reach our common goal as a team.

    About Rovco

    Rovco is a global provider of ROV and hydrographic services, supported by unique artificial intelligence-based technology products. We have a vast track record in supplying services and technology to the Offshore Energy industry across the globe.

    Rovco invests heavily in research and development, creating technology to support our clients. Our vision is to provide truly autonomous collaborative subsea robotics to perform Offshore Energy services.

    Founded in 2015
    Co-workers 150+
    Turnover £20M+
    Software Engineering · Bristol · Hybrid Remote

    Principal Robotics Software Engineer - Perception / SLAM

    We focus on helping the world become a cleaner, greener, and safer place by deploying technology for good and accelerating the transition to renewable energy - Come join us!

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