At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of cutting-edge autonomous robotics for industry-leading lift truck systems.
- Company: Join a pioneering team at Hyster-Yale, shaping the future of automation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for mentorship and cross-functional leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics and automation while working with innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in engineering with a focus on robotics and autonomous systems.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ 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 Summary
The 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 autonomation, 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 marked 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.
Required Qualifications
- 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 organisational levels.
Preferred Qualifications
- 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.
Employment Details
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 hours. Travel Required: No. Location: HY EMEA UK Frimley, Centennial House, GU16 7SG. Field‑Based: No. Relocation Assistance Available: No.
Senior Autonomous Robotics Architect in Frimley employer: Hyster-Yale Materials Handling
Hyster-Yale is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Frimley, where innovation meets collaboration. Our engineering development centre fosters a culture of hands-on learning and growth, providing employees with opportunities to lead cutting-edge projects in autonomous robotics. With a commitment to safety, reliability, and performance, we empower our team members to make impactful contributions while enjoying a supportive atmosphere that values technical excellence and professional development.
Contact Details:
Hyster-Yale Materials Handling Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Autonomous Robotics Architect in Frimley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal project that highlights your expertise in robotics and automation. This is a great way to demonstrate your capabilities beyond just a CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to robotics and engineering. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
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 at Hyster-Yale.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Autonomous Robotics Architect in Frimley
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 love seeing genuine enthusiasm!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in robotics and autonomous systems. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for. This helps us see how you fit into our team.
Be Clear and Concise:In your cover letter, get straight to the point. Clearly outline your qualifications and how they relate to the role. We appreciate straightforward communication, so keep it engaging but to the point!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hyster-Yale Materials Handling
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest technologies related to robotics and automation. Brush up on your knowledge of sensors, controls, and safety systems, as these will be crucial topics during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading technical teams and making critical decisions. Be ready to discuss how you've influenced project outcomes and mentored others in a fast-paced environment.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research Hyster-Yale’s products and their impact on materials handling. Be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their goals and how you can contribute to their robotics technology roadmap.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions about system-level architecture and integration processes. Practise articulating your thought process clearly, especially when discussing complex engineering challenges you've faced.
