Robotics Software Engineer - Labs
DoorDash · San Francisco, CA
- On site
- Full-time
- $150,000 / year
- San Francisco, CA
Job highlights
- Develop drone software for autonomous flight.
- Work with robotics, sensors, and real-time systems.
- Integrate perception, state estimation, and control algorithms.
- Utilize ROS/ROS 2 for navigation and obstacle avoidance.
- Test and debug drone software in real-world scenarios.
About the role
About The Team
DoorDash Labs is an independent team within DoorDash. We explore robotics and automation to transform last-mile logistics in the long term. If you have experience applying the latest technology and enhance delivery experiences for millions of users, we want to talk to you.The Drone Delivery team is focused on bringing the dream of fast, efficient, and delightful last-mile delivery through the air to life. As one of the leaders in this space, we believe in the promise of combining advanced robotics, aviation, and operational innovation to bring this high-flying technology into our 3-sided marketplace. We are a team focused on bringing our products and visions to market.
About The Role
We're expanding the drone team! We're looking for engineers passionate about leveraging UAV technology to reimagine logistics. This role focuses on developing and deploying state-of-the-art systems in real-world environments, transforming bold visions into practical solutions. If you're ready to push the boundaries of innovation, we’d love to connect.This position will report to Engineering Management within DoorDash Labs.
You're Excited About This Opportunity Because You Will…
- Design and deploy software for advanced drone hardware, promoting autonomous flight capabilities and delivery operations.
- Work at the intersection of software, hardware, and robotics, building applications that run on a real-time capable robotics platform and interface with multiple drone sensors and actuators.
- Develop and integrate algorithms for onboard perception, sensor fusion, state estimation, and control using data from different drone sensors (e.g., IMU, GPS, camera, and lidar).
- Use ROS/ROS 2 to build modular robotic applications for autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and payload management.
- Implement communication protocols to promote seamless data exchange between the drone, ground control stations, and cloud backend systems.
- Conduct rigorous testing and debugging of on-drone software using simulations, hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) setups, and real-world flight testing.
- Collaborate with backend and infrastructure teams to provide a cohesive and integrated drone delivery ecosystem.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in drone technology and robotics.
We're Excited About You Because…
- A degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
- 5+ years of industry experience in software development for robotics or autonomous systems.
- Proficiency in C/C++ and Python.
- Experience with ROS/ROS 2.
- Familiarity with sensor integration and data processing techniques.
- Experience with debugging tools and techniques for robotic systems.
- Experience with robotics, drones, and autonomous systems.
- Must be comfortable regularly exercising discretion and independent judgment in performing job duties, including evaluating options, making informed decisions, and determining appropriate courses of action within the scope of assigned responsibilities.
Key skills/competency
- Robotics Software Development
- Autonomous Systems
- C/C++
- Python
- ROS/ROS 2
- Sensor Integration
- Perception Algorithms
- State Estimation
- Control Systems
- Drone Technology
Skills & topics
- Robotics Software Engineer
- Robotics
- Software Development
- Autonomous Systems
- Drone Technology
- C++
- Python
- ROS
- ROS 2
- Last-Mile Logistics
- UAV
- Embedded Systems
- Real-time Systems
- Sensor Fusion
- State Estimation
- Control Systems
- Logistics Automation
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
How to get hired
- Customize your resume: Highlight your robotics, C++, Python, and ROS/ROS 2 experience, aligning it with the job description's requirements.
- Showcase your projects: Include any personal or professional robotics projects, especially those involving drones or autonomous systems, on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Prepare for technical interviews: Brush up on your C/C++, Python, ROS/ROS 2 fundamentals, and be ready to discuss robotics concepts like sensor fusion, state estimation, and control systems.
- Demonstrate problem-solving skills: Be prepared to discuss how you've used discretion and independent judgment to solve complex problems in previous robotics roles.
- Research DoorDash Labs: Understand their mission in last-mile logistics and drone delivery to articulate your passion and fit during the interview process.
Technical preparation
Master C/C++ and Python for robotics applications.,Gain deep knowledge of ROS/ROS 2 framework.,Practice sensor integration and data processing techniques.,Familiarize with debugging tools for robotic systems.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex robotics problem you solved.,How do you handle ambiguity in requirements?,Give an example of independent decision-making.,How do you stay updated with robotics advancements?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the key technical skills required for the Robotics Software Engineer role at DoorDash Labs?
- The Robotics Software Engineer role at DoorDash Labs requires proficiency in C/C++ and Python, extensive experience with ROS/ROS 2, and familiarity with sensor integration and data processing. You should also have experience with debugging tools and techniques specific to robotic systems.
- What kind of robotics experience is DoorDash looking for in this role?
- DoorDash is seeking candidates with 5+ years of industry experience in software development for robotics or autonomous systems. Specific experience with drones and autonomous systems, including designing and deploying software for advanced drone hardware, is highly valued.
- What will a typical day look like for a Robotics Software Engineer at DoorDash Labs?
- A typical day might involve designing and deploying software for drone hardware, developing and integrating algorithms for perception, sensor fusion, state estimation, and control. You'll also be building modular robotic applications using ROS/ROS 2 and conducting rigorous testing of on-drone software.
- Does DoorDash Labs offer opportunities for career growth in robotics?
- Yes, DoorDash Labs is focused on long-term logistics transformation and exploring cutting-edge robotics. This role offers the chance to work on advanced drone technology and contribute to innovative delivery solutions, providing significant opportunities for professional growth and impact in the field.
- What is the compensation and benefits package for a Robotics Software Engineer at DoorDash?
- Compensation includes a competitive base salary within specified ranges (I4, I5, I6), potential equity grants, and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes 401(k) with employer matching, paid parental leave, wellness benefits, paid time off, and medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- How does DoorDash ensure a diverse and inclusive environment for its robotics team?
- DoorDash is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. They hire and cultivate teams from all backgrounds and encourage applications from individuals of all races, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and veteran statuses, striving to create an environment where everyone can excel.
- What is the importance of ROS/ROS 2 in this Robotics Software Engineer position at DoorDash?
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