Robotics Software Engineer, Los Angeles, CA

Robotics Software Engineer – (USV/ASV)

Are you interested in building real-world autonomy systems that operate in some of the most challenging environments on the planet?

I’m working with a venture-backed maritime defence startup developing next-generation autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) designed to protect critical infrastructure and redefine naval capability.

This is a hands-on autonomy role, focused on building and deploying path planning and decision-making systems directly onto operational USVs.

What you’ll be doing:

• Designing and implementing advanced path planning algorithms (graph-based, APF, etc.)
• Working with edge compute systems to enable real-time decision making in constrained environments
• Building robust deployment pipelines for software running on live vehicles
• Integrating data from multi-sensor systems to drive autonomy and navigation
• Testing and refining algorithms in simulation and real maritime environments

What they’re looking for:

• Strong experience with path planning / navigation algorithms
• Hands-on experience with Linux (ideally embedded / Yocto environments)
• Strong programming skills (C++, Python)
• Someone comfortable operating in a fast-moving, engineering-led environment

Why this role?

• Small team, high ownership and real impact
• Work on physical autonomous systems, not just simulations
• See your work deployed in real-world maritime operations
• Be part of a company aiming to fundamentally change naval capability

They can pay up to $200k plus equity. Based in Los Angeles.

Please reach out to to find out more.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Callum Stephens