Chief Expert Robotics
About the position
At Bosch Research, we pioneer cutting-edge AI algorithms for high-impact industrial applications, from automated driving to intelligent agentic systems. Our innovations are the foundation for high-performance, robust, and safe AI solutions across the Bosch Group. Join us as a Chief Expert in Robotics and shape the future of autonomous systems. Drive End-to-End Robotics Deployment: As a Chief Expert Robotics, you will lead the technical implementation and architecture of advanced robotic systems by translating complex algorithms into reliable, production-ready hardware and software solutions. You will take physical robots from the concept and laboratory stage directly into real-world operating environments, whether in manufacturing, logistics, or field applications. Strategic Technology Leadership: Furthermore, you will define and drive the long-term robotics research roadmap by identifying emerging technologies in perception, manipulation, motion planning, and AI/ML. As a technical expert, you will make key decisions regarding system architecture, hardware-software co-design, and make-or-buy strategies. Foster Agile & Pragmatic Engineering Culture: Within interdisciplinary teams, you will foster a fast-paced, startup-like prototyping culture focused on rapid iteration, fail-fast principles, and continuous testing on physical hardware. You will mentor and coach researchers across multiple disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electronics, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Stakeholder & Ecosystem Collaboration: You will work closely with business units, product managers, and external partners to ensure that our robotics innovations solve real customer needs and deliver a clear ROI. Last but not least, you will scout and collaborate with leading robotics startups, venture partners, and academic institutions to integrate state-of-the-art technologies.
Responsibilities
- Lead the technical implementation and architecture of advanced robotic systems by translating complex algorithms into reliable, production-ready hardware and software solutions.
- Take physical robots from the concept and laboratory stage directly into real-world operating environments, whether in manufacturing, logistics, or field applications.
- Define and drive the long-term robotics research roadmap by identifying emerging technologies in perception, manipulation, motion planning, and AI/ML.
- Make key decisions regarding system architecture, hardware-software co-design, and make-or-buy strategies.
- Foster a fast-paced, startup-like prototyping culture focused on rapid iteration, fail-fast principles, and continuous testing on physical hardware.
- Mentor and coach researchers across multiple disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electronics, software engineering, and artificial intelligence.
- Work closely with business units, product managers, and external partners to ensure that our robotics innovations solve real customer needs and deliver a clear ROI.
- Scout and collaborate with leading robotics startups, venture partners, and academic institutions to integrate state-of-the-art technologies.
Requirements
- Completed Master's degree or PhD in Robotics, Mechatronics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent professional experience (minimum 8+ years in robotics/autonomous systems development)
- Minimum 8+ years of professional experience in robotics and autonomous systems, with demonstrated success in building or deploying advanced physical AI/robotic systems in production environments
- Proven background in robotics organizations, including startups, scale-ups, or innovation-focused teams
- Deep technical expertise in core robotics technology stacks (e.g., ROS/ROS 2, modern C++, Python, Linux/RTOS)
- Hands-on experience with GPU-accelerated simulation tools (e.g., NVIDIA Isaac Sim/Lab, MuJoCo) and teleoperation/data collection pipelines
- Practical experience with modern robotic learning methodologies (Imitation Learning, Diffusion Policy, ACT, Reinforcement Learning, or Foundation Models including VLMs/VLAs)
- Demonstrated knowledge of perception and state estimation techniques (sensor fusion, SLAM, 3D vision, LiDAR/camera calibration)
- Expertise in manipulation and grasping systems (end-effectors, tactile sensing, teleoperation)
- Professional experience with Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, safety protocols, and design for reliability
- Demonstrated ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical challenges across full-stack systems, from electrical and CAN bus issues on physical robots to software race conditions and edge cases
- Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively to executive leadership, customers, and cross-functional teams
- Track record of implementing iterative prototyping methodologies that enable rapid development cycles
- Fluent written and spoken English
Benefits
- health, dental, and vision plans
- health savings accounts (HSA)
- flexible spending accounts
- 401(K) retirement plan with an attractive employer match
- wellness programs
- life insurance
- long term disability insurance
- paid time off
- parental leave
