1.21 Research Manager

Field AI is transforming how robots interact with the real world. We are building risk-aware, reliable, and field-ready AI systems that address the most complex challenges in robotics, unlocking the full potential of embodied intelligence. We go beyond typical data-driven approaches or pure transformer-based architectures, and are charting a new course, with already-globally-deployed solutions delivering real-world results and rapidly improving models through real-field applications.

About the Job

We are seeking an accomplished Research Manager to lead a high-performing team of research scientists and engineers working at the forefront of robotics AI. In this role, you will define and drive research strategy, oversee the development of advanced AI algorithms, and guide projects from concept through real-world deployment. You will balance hands-on technical leadership with people management, ensuring both scientific excellence and impactful delivery. This is an opportunity to shape the future of robotic autonomy by translating cutting-edge research into systems that perform reliably in complex, dynamic environments.

• Help Set Research Vision and Strategy
• Define and execute the research roadmap for robotics AI in alignment with Field AI’s mission and product needs
• Identify emerging trends, tools, and techniques to keep the team at the forefront of innovation
• Lead and Manage Research Teams
• Recruit, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary team of research scientists and engineers
• Oversee performance management, professional development, and technical leadership within the group
• Drive End-to-End Research and Deployment
• Lead projects from problem definition through algorithm design, simulation, testing, and field deployment
• Ensure that research outputs translate into robust, scalable solutions
• Foster Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner closely with product, engineering, and operations teams to integrate research into production systems
• Represent Field AI’s research externally through conferences, publications, and collaborations
• Ensure Operational Excellence
• Develop and implement processes for experiment design, evaluation, and reproducibility
• Manage resources, budgets, and timelines to deliver high-quality results on schedule

• PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or related field, or equivalent practical experience
• 8 years in applied research with a proven track record of delivering impactful results
• 4 years of experience managing research teams, including hiring, performance management, and career growth
• Experience leading multiple complex research projects in parallel
• Strong technical background in robotics AI, machine learning, or related domains

• Experience with large-scale field robotics deployments
• Expertise in robotics reinforcement learning, manipulation, perception, or multi-robot systems
• Experience with embedded AI systems or edge deployment in resource-constrained environments

Compensation and Benefits

Our salary range is generous ($70,000 - $200,000 annual), but we take into consideration an individual's background and experience in determining final salary; base pay offered may vary considerably depending on geographic location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.  Also, while we enjoy being together on-site, we are open to exploring a hybrid or remote option.

Why Join Field AI?

We are solving one of the world’s most complex challenges: deploying robots in unstructured, previously unknown environments. Our Field Foundational Models™ set a new standard in perception, planning, localization, and manipulation, ensuring our approach is explainable and safe for deployment.

You will have the opportunity to work with a world-class team that thrives on creativity, resilience, and bold thinking. With a decade-long track record of deploying solutions in the field, winning DARPA challenge segments, and bringing expertise from organizations like DeepMind, NASA JPL, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, Amazon, Tesla Autopilot, Cruise Self-Driving, Zoox, Toyota Research Institute, and SpaceX, we are set to achieve our ambitious goals.

Be Part of the Next Robotics Revolution

To tackle such ambitious challenges, we need a team as unique as our vision — innovators who go beyond conventional methods and are eager to tackle tough, uncharted questions. We’re seeking individuals who challenge the status quo, dive into uncharted territory, and bring interdisciplinary expertise. Our team requires not only top AI talent but also exceptional software developers, engineers, product designers, field deployment experts, and communicators.

We are headquartered in always-sunny Mission Viejo (Irvine adjacent), Southern California and have US based and global teammates. 

Join us, shape the future, and be part of a fun, close-knit team on an exciting journey!

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, martial status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

Salary : $70,000 - $200,000