Lead Manipulation Architect – Spot

As a Lead Manipulation Architect on the Spot project, you will be the core technical leader responsible for developing the intelligence behind how our legged robots successfully perform complex, unstructured manipulation tasks. You will drive the implementation of advanced manipulation capabilities, leveraging cutting-edge Machine Learning to solve the hardest problems in object interaction and whole-body loco-manipulation. You'll use expertise in ML, classical control, and perception processing to achieve robust and precise operation. This is a high-impact role on a multidisciplinary team where you can push the boundaries of robotics performance and translate groundbreaking research into core product capabilities.

Day-to-Day Activities

• Design and implement state-of-the-art grasping and trajectory optimization algorithms, using both data-driven and model-based approaches.
• Integrate manipulation capabilities tightly with Spot's mobility stack.
• Lead the integration of 3D perception systems for manipulation.
• Execute sim-to-real validation and rigorous testing on our in-house fleet of Spot robots.
• Write high-quality, maintainable code in both Python and C .
• Provide senior technical guidance and mentorship, setting the architectural direction for the manipulation stack.
  
  

We Are Looking For

• Master’s degree or higher in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 5 years of industry experience deploying real-time robotic manipulation systems, with expertise in:
• Machine Learning for Robotics (DRL/Imitation Learning).
• Whole-Body Control and Loco-Manipulation.
• Classical manipulation theory and 3D perception pipelines.
• Proficiency in both Python and C programming languages.
• Strong analytical and debugging skills.
  

Nice To Have

• PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  
  

The base pay range for this position is between $173,732.98 to $275,117.90 annually. Base pay will depend on multiple individualized factors including, but not limited to internal equity, job related knowledge, skills and experience. This range represents a good faith estimate of compensation at the time of posting. Boston Dynamics offers a generous Benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401(k), paid time off and a annual bonus structure. Additional details regarding these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer for employment.