Staff Robotics Motion Planning Engineer

Qualcomm • San Diego, CA

56d

About The Position

Qualcomm's Robotics Team is pioneering next-generation autonomous systems by delivering cutting-edge hardware and software solutions for humanoid robots, mobile manipulators, and AMRs. We are seeking a Staff Robotics Motion Planning Engineer to design, implement, and optimize advanced motion planning algorithms that enable safe, efficient, and intelligent navigation and manipulation in dynamic environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Systems Engineering or related work experience.
• OR
• Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Systems Engineering or related work experience.
• OR
• PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Systems Engineering or related work experience.
• Works in the lab, can use hazardous chemicals (e.g., glue, machinery).

Nice To Haves

• Strong proficiency in C++ and Python; experience with ROS/ROS2.
• Solid understanding of kinematics, dynamics, and motion planning algorithms (e.g., sampling-based planners, optimization-based planners).
• Expertise in re-enforcement learning, trajectory optimization, model predictive control, and real-time planning.
• Experience with embedded systems and real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Familiarity with GPU programming, parallelization, and simulation tools.
• Knowledge of probabilistic planning, uncertainty modeling, and multi-agent coordination.

Responsibilities

• Algorithm Development: Design and implement motion planning algorithms for robotic platforms, including trajectory generation, path optimization, and collision avoidance in high- dimensional spaces.
• Integration: Integrate planning modules with perception, localization, and control systems using ROS2-based frameworks and Qualcomm's robotics SDK.
• Optimization: Develop real-time planning solutions leveraging heterogeneous compute platforms (CPU, GPU, NPU, DSP) for low-latency execution.
• Simulation & Validation: Validate algorithms in simulation environments and on physical robotic platforms; perform benchmarking and stress testing.
• Safety & Compliance: Implement planning strategies aligned with functional safety standards (ISO 26262, IEC 61508) and ensure robust handling of uncertainty.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams (AI, perception, hardware, and simulation) to deliver integrated robotics solutions.
• Innovation: Contribute to system-level architecture discussions, including sensor fusion and actuator coordination strategies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees