At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and optimise autonomy algorithms for cutting-edge robotic vehicles.
- Company: Join Textron Specialized Vehicles, a leader in innovative turf-care technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy work-life balance, 30 days leave, competitive pay, and great perks.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics while working on exciting projects.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in relevant field and experience in robotics required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Textron Specialized Vehicles are a global manufacturer of golf cars, utility and personal transportation vehicles, side-by-sides, all-terrain vehicles, professional turf-care equipment, and ground support equipment. At Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd, we design and manufacture professional turf-care equipment under the brands of Ransomes and Jacobsen. Our mission is to be the premier supplier of high-quality and environmentally conscious turf equipment, providing superior performance for our customers.
We recognise that our success, and future success, is tied directly to our people. We are looking for a Robotics Engineer to join the Company in Ipswich, Suffolk.
As a Robotics Engineer, you will develop and optimise the core autonomy algorithms for Jacobsen vehicles, with a focus on localisation, navigation and motion planning. This role focuses on algorithm development, system performance and real-world behaviour, supporting the transition from prototype systems to field-ready, production-ready autonomous capability.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Develop and improve localisation algorithms, including sensor fusion (RTK GPS, IMU, LiDAR, camera) and fallback strategies;
- Design and implement navigation and path planning algorithms, including coverage planning and route optimization;
- Develop and optimise motion planning and trajectory generation, improving turn performance, smoothness, and transitions;
- Implement and tune algorithms such as A, Hybrid A, DWA, MPC, or similar;
- Integrate algorithms into the autonomy stack (ROS2 or equivalent);
- Work with Test & Validation teams to analyse field data, debug issues, and improve system performance;
- Support development and validation using simulation and digital twin environments;
- Other duties as required.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics/Mechatronics or similar.
- A minimum of five years' experience in robotics, autonomy, or control systems, or similar roles.
Required Skills:
- Experience with localisation, navigation, and motion planning algorithms;
- Proficiency in C++ and/or Python;
- Experience with ROS/ROS2 or similar frameworks;
- Understanding of sensor fusion techniques;
- Experience with real-time systems and algorithm optimization;
- Self-motivating and able to work with low levels of supervision to defined objectives;
- Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with outdoor or off-road autonomous systems;
- Knowledge of RTK GPS, IMU integration, and LiDAR-based localisation;
- Familiarity with coverage planning and path optimisation problems;
- Experience with simulation tools (e.g. Isaac Sim, Gazebo);
- Exposure to AI/ML approaches in perception or planning.
What we Offer:
- Work life balance promoted with every other Friday off;
- 30 days annual leave;
- Competitive rate of pay, reviewed annually;
- Enhanced Company pension;
- Life assurance of four times your annual salary;
- Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program for you and your immediate family;
- Access to Textron University's self-service training platform;
- Eye care scheme;
- Discounts on gym memberships, shopping and travel through Perks at Work;
- Onsite golf course and football pitch;
- Winter flu vaccination voucher.
Job Field: Engineering
Job Type: Experienced
Schedule: Full-time
Shift: First Shift
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Locations
Robotics Engineer in Ipswich, Suffolk employer: Textron Systems
Textron Specialized Vehicles is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Ipswich, Suffolk, where innovation meets tradition in the field of robotics engineering. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we promote work-life balance through initiatives like every other Friday off, alongside generous benefits such as 30 days of annual leave and a comprehensive training platform for professional growth. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your career development while working on cutting-edge technology in a collaborative and supportive culture.
