Research Engineer for Mobile Manipulation

Join the Autonomous Multi-Robots Lab and the Reliable Robot Control Lab at TU Delft to design the next generation of mobile manipulators.

Research Engineer for Mobile Manipulation

Job description

Ready to bridge the gap between cutting-edge theory and real-world application? Mobile manipulators are revolutionizing everything from complex warehouse logistics to hazardous site inspections. We are looking for a driven Research Engineer for a fast-paced, 5.5-month project to seamlessly integrate our state-of-the-art planning algorithms onto a brand-new prototype mobile manipulator.

In this hands-on, collaborative role, you won’t be starting from scratch. As a key integrator, your goal is to take advanced code developed by our research team and deploy it onto our physical prototype. You will spend your time in our state-of-the-art Mobile Robotics Lab—an advanced testing arena—where you will rapidly prototype, test, and ultimately deliver a fully functional, real-world demonstrator.

This is a unique opportunity to collaborate directly with other robotics researchers. You will be a core contributor in the following labs:

• The Autonomous Multi-Robots Lab, led by Prof. dr. J. Alonso-Mora
• The Reliable Robot Control Lab, led by dr. L. Ferranti

You will actively participate in R&D discussions, integrate deeply with our team members, and leave your mark on our next generation of autonomous systems. If you want to build something highly visible in a short amount of time, this is the project for you.

Job requirements

Who You Are

You are an enthusiastic problem-solver who enjoys working at the intersection of software and hardware. You are eager to see complex algorithms step out of the simulation and run on physical machines. Whether you have industry experience or are a highly motivated recent graduate ready to make a tangible impact, you are excited to engage directly with real-world robotic systems and collaborate with a dedicated team.

What You Bring to the Team

• Educational Background: An MSc degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related field.
• The Tech Stack: Excellent programming skills in Python and/or C++, alongside experience with modern software development practices.
• Robotics Expertise: Proven, hands-on experience with robotics middleware (e.g., ROS/ROS2). Experience with real-world robot deployment or advanced simulation frameworks is also required.
• Cross-Domain Curiosity: A strong interest in tying together motion planning, control systems, and embedded hardware.
• Collaborative Mindset: Excellent communication skills and a readiness to brainstorm, troubleshoot, and build alongside our research teams.

Important Note on Eligibility: Due to knowledge security regulations associated with this specific project, EU citizenship is strictly required for this position.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 5.5 months (temporary).
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.