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- Tasks: Lead the development of cutting-edge robotic systems and ensure their performance and safety.
- Company: Join a leading automation company focused on innovative robotics solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic team with opportunities for global collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics and shape the future of materials handling.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in engineering with expertise in robotics and autonomous systems.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Are you looking to work in Automation and develop industry-leading technologies on a collaborative development team? A proven track record in technology is required – tell us what interests you and how you can help our emerging technology programs. This is an opportunity to impact materials handling by bringing Hyster and Yale products to the forefront of the marketplace.
Our teams work on great projects within our "hands-on" engineering development centre in the South East of England. This role is within the Frimley-based global robotics development team contributing to the development of robotic options for all lift truck models.
Role SummaryThe Robotics Chief Software Engineer role is the senior technical authority for Hyster-Yale’s autonomous and robotic vehicle platforms. This role owns the end-to-end integrity of the robotic truck systems, from concept and architecture through validation, industrialisation, and field performance, ensuring solutions meet stringent requirements for safety, reliability, performance, and cost.
The Robotics Chief Software Engineer serves as the final technical decision-maker across software and system domains, providing clear technical direction and governance across multiple robotics programs and platforms. This role works in close partnership with product management, program management, integration leaders, and global engineering teams to deliver scalable, production-ready robotic solutions.
Responsibilities- Technical Ownership & Architecture
- Development responsibility for robotic truck platforms, including automation, sensors, computers, controls, vehicle interfaces, and safety systems.
- Define and maintain system-level technical requirements, design standards, and architectural trade-offs across hardware and software domains.
- Serve as the final technical authority for major design decisions.
- Product Development & Delivery
- Lead technical execution from prototype through production release and market deployment.
- Ensure robotic systems comply with global requirements for functional safety, reliability, and durability.
- Drive disciplined engineering processes, including design reviews, validation plans, and technical readiness gates.
- Systems Integration & Validation
- Oversee software integration of sensors (LiDAR, cameras, radar), controllers, computers, and autonomous navigation software into mobile platforms.
- Define and approve verification and validation strategies to demonstrate long-term system reliability and performance in industrial environments.
- Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for field, test, or production issues.
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Engineers, Integration Leaders, and senior engineers across global sites.
- Partner closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Sourcing, Service, and Commercial teams to ensure robust, manufacturable, and serviceable solutions.
- Represent engineering in executive and cross-functional reviews, clearly communicating technical risks, trade-offs, and recommendations.
- Technology Strategy & Roadmap
- Influence the robotics technology roadmap, including autonomous capabilities, sensor strategies, computers, and safety architectures.
- Evaluate emerging technologies and suppliers to support future product scalability and competitiveness.
- Ensure alignment between long-term technology strategy and near-term product delivery needs.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Computer, Robotics, or related discipline).
- 10+ years of progressive engineering experience in robotics, autonomous systems, automotive, off-highway, or complex electro-mechanical products.
- Demonstrated experience owning system-level architecture and technical delivery of complex, safety-critical products.
- Strong background in systems engineering, including requirements management, integration, and validation.
- Experience working across mechanical, electrical, software, and controls disciplines.
- Proven ability to lead technical decision-making in ambiguous, fast-moving development environments.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence across disciplines and organizational levels.
- Experience with autonomous vehicles, mobile robotics, or industrial automation.
- Familiarity with C++, Python, Git, DevOps, and Linux development environments.
- Familiarity with Matlab/Simulink/Stateflow model-based code generation.
- Knowledge of functional safety standards and compliance processes.
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., CAN, J1939, CANopen).
- Experience supporting global development teams and multi-site programs.
- Occasional travel may be required (less than 10% total time).
The successful candidate will be subject to background checks.
Job Type: Permanent
Time Type: Full time
Work Hours: 39
Travel Required: No
Location: HY EMEA UK Frimley
Address: Centennial House
Zip Code: GU16 7SG
Field-Based: No
Relocation Assistance Available: No
Robotics Chief Engineer employer: Hyster-Yale Group
Contact Detail:
Hyster-Yale Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Robotics Chief Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the robotics field, especially those at Hyster-Yale. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got projects or prototypes, bring them along to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your hands-on experience and passion for robotics.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your systems engineering knowledge and be ready to discuss how you’d tackle real-world challenges in robotics.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Robotics Chief Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let us know what excites you about robotics and automation. Share your experiences and how they align with our mission at Hyster-Yale. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
Be Specific: Tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Mention specific projects or technologies you've worked on that relate to the role. This helps us understand how you can contribute to our team.
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love detail, make sure your application is easy to read. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. A well-structured application makes it easier for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that your application gets to the right people and helps us keep track of all candidates efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hyster-Yale Group
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest robotics technologies and trends. Brush up on your knowledge of autonomous systems, sensors, and safety standards. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just interested but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face some tough technical questions during your interview. Review your past projects and be ready to explain your decision-making process, especially regarding system architecture and integration. Use specific examples to illustrate your experience with complex, safety-critical products.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Robotics Chief Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor others. Be prepared to discuss how you've influenced teams in previous roles, particularly in fast-paced environments. Highlight any cross-functional collaborations you've been part of to show your versatility.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical risks and trade-offs. Remember, it’s not just about what you say, but how you convey your ideas to different stakeholders.