Sr Systems Analyst (Robotic Algorithms and Controls)

Intuitive•Sunnyvale, CA

About The Position

The Sr Systems Analyst (Robotic Algorithms and Controls Engineer) develops robotic algorithms and controls to support the development and production of new instruments for the da Vinci Surgical System. The role focuses on creating safe, high-quality robotic systems for minimally invasive surgery through rigorous technical analysis, with particular responsibility for tele-operated motion performance and motion fidelity. The analyst works across clinical development, mechanical design, manufacturing, and other technical disciplines. The role includes developing and tuning algorithms, integrating features into instrument prototypes, assessing performance and feasibility, conducting risk analysis, and analyzing field data to improve instrument performance and stability. It also involves supporting regulatory approval documentation and developing manufacturing test specifications and automated fixtures for calibration, testing, and assembly. The role requires broad technical knowledge, cross-disciplinary ownership, and technical leadership.

Requirements

Demonstrated intuitive understanding of mechanical phenomena and ability to perform rigorous mechanical analysis.
Knowledge of classical and modern servo control systems.
Knowledge of serial-arm robot kinematics.
C/C++ and MATLAB programming skills.
Hardware, software, and mechanism integration skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and determination to solve challenging problems.
Ability to provide technical leadership and help define project tasks and objectives.
Minimum PhD (preferred) or MS in a robotics-related field.
Five years minimum of experience in a robotics-related field is preferred.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Python and basic SQL.
Knowledge of statistics and probabilistic reasoning.
Knowledge of electrical, software, and mechanical design principles and CAD tools.
Experience conducting research with human subjects.
Experience launching real-world, commercially successful products.

Responsibilities

Develop and own the tele-operated motion performance of robotic surgical instruments.
Work with the clinical development team to understand performance requirements.
Work with the mechanical design team to optimize instrument mechanisms for motion fidelity.
Use analysis and experimentation to understand the behavior and limitations of instrument mechanisms.
Modify and tune algorithms to optimize motion fidelity and ensure consistent performance in clinical environments.
Implement features and algorithms for new instrument development.
Collaborate with the design team to iterate through prototypes, analyze performance, and assess feasibility.
Perform risk analysis and implement safety algorithms.
Document risks, requirements, and test protocols to support regulatory approval requests, including those submitted to the FDA.
Analyze field data to improve the performance and stability of surgical instruments.
Collaborate with manufacturing to develop automated fixtures for instrument calibration, testing, and assembly assistance.
Determine manufacturing test specifications that ensure instrument performance.
Provide technical leadership and a top-level view of projects, interface across technical specialties, and take ownership of cross-disciplinary issues.