Robotics Engineer, Software

KION Group•Grand Rapids, MI

19h•$96,000 - $128,000•Hybrid

About The Position

KION Group is a leading supplier of forklift trucks and warehouse equipment, as well as integrated automation technologies and software solutions for the optimization of supply chains. KION Group employs over 42,000 skilled professionals to service its customers globally. Our solutions ensure the smooth flow of materials and information in customers’ warehouses, production plants, and distribution centers in over 100 countries. Are you a high-impact engineer driven to define the next era of robotics? Do you excel at spearheading the development of critical software components for advanced mobile robotic systems? We're seeking a Mobile Robotics Software Engineer (ROS2 / NextGen) whose expertise will directly influence our upcoming products for the Americas Region. Your deep experience across real-time control system development, robust modular software structures, simulation environments, and fleet orchestration will be pivotal. This position will be part of the Robotic Systems Development (RSD) team within the Central Technology Organization (CTO). CTO plays a key role in our organizational structure by bringing together technical expertise and innovation across the KION Group and its Operating Units. RSD explores the cutting-edge robotic technologies we develop and brings innovative solutions to life. Our diverse teams go beyond technology development, providing comprehensive solutions, services, and lifecycle support. We are dedicated to turning the CTO's vision into reality and empowering our operating units to deliver revolutionary solutions to our valued customers. This position is located in Holland / Grand Rapids, MI area. This is a hybrid position (three days in-office and two days optional to work from home).

Requirements

Deep expertise in modern C++ (C++17/20), STL, memory management, and performance tuning
Strong background in software architecture and large codebases
Experience with multi-threaded, distributed, or real-time systems
Proven track record in mentoring or technical ownership
Excellent understanding of Linux, debugging, and profiling tools
Ability to switch between C++, scripting (Python/Bash), and integration tasks.
8+ years of professional experience in C++ software engineering and robotics.
Hands-on experience with ROS/ROS2 or other robotics frameworks
Prior work in autonomous systems, robotics, or embedded environments
Familiarity with middleware (DDS, ZeroMQ, gRPC), containerization, and orchestration tools
Experience in system integration, hardware/software interfacing, or deployment pipelines
Experience working in fast-paced research and development environments
Strong mathematical knowledge. i.e., optimization, polynomials.
Bachelors or Masters degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field (required).
Travel may be required up to 30% (inclusive of domestic as well as international trips to Americas, EMEA, and APAC).

Nice To Haves

A Ph.D. or equivalent experience in research or innovation is a plus.

Responsibilities

Development of foundational software for mobile robotic systems within a globally distributed team, dedicated to the Americas region.
Demonstrate your skills in simulation, tooling, and platform management to ensure software scalability and use case handling through perception and configuration.
Collaborate with fellow engineers, encouraging a culture of technical innovation.
Contribute to the strategic direction of our robotics software initiatives.
Architect and develop core C++ software systems for embedded onboard software, simulation, and deployment.
Drive development of robust tools and frameworks for internal teams and robotic platforms.
Drive technical direction in code structure, system design, and performance optimization.
Collaborate with robotics, cloud, and systems teams on multi-functional efforts.
Mentor and review work of junior and mid-level engineers.
Define engineering best practices and contribute to technical roadmap.