Lead Robotics Engineer, Autonomy

What We're Looking For Bachelor's or Master's in Robotics, EE/ME, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field. 5+ years of experience building robotics/autonomy systems, with 2+ years in a technical lead or team-lead capacity on mission-critical or fielded systems (defense, aerospace, drones, or similar). Strong proficiency in C++ and Python, with solid real-time and embedded systems fundamentals. Demonstrated depth across the full stack: perception/CV, state estimation (EKF/factor graphs, VIO/SLAM), motion and path planning, and control (PID through MPC). Hands-on experience with flight control stacks (PX4/ArduPilot or equivalent) and tuning controllers on real hardware. Experience designing and deploying 6DOF manipulation systems, including kinematics, motion planning (MoveIt/OMPL-class), and grasping. Proficiency with ROS/ROS2 and robotics simulation tooling (Gazebo, Isaac Sim, or similar), plus hardware-in-the-loop testing. Track record of shipping autonomous systems to the real world, not just simulation or research, with sound judgment on sim-to-real and field reliability. Robot learning (imitation/RL, VLA models), CUDA/edge deployment, and experience operating in rugged or contested environments a plus. What Valinor Offers Competitive salary, equity packages, and

benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance - fully covered for employees, 401(k), development stipends, among others. Unlimited PTO and two-week company holiday at the end of every calendar year. We are a pro-mental health and pro-family company - we actually encourage employees to spend time with themselves and their families. Valinor also provides fertility

benefits to those just beginning that journey. Fun work environment - we like to laugh and take care of each other, but we also deeply respect the mission in front of us. This role requires candidates to be a US Person and eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Active clearance preferred, but not required. Employees will have access to information, materials, and technologies subject to U.S. export controls (EAR and/or ITAR). Valinor is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Valinor team is made up of incredibly talented and unique individuals, who together are disrupting industry norms by creating new paths towards the future of defense and government technology. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the

requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you are someone passionate about working on problems that have a real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you!

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