Senior Robotics Engineer - Defense-Tech

Company: Approach Venture
Location: Austin
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Senior Robotics Engineer - Build the real-time control systems behind next-generation autonomous defense platforms! Austin, TX | On-site Opportunity Summary This is an opportunity to join a well-funded, early-stage technology company developing autonomous robotic systems for high-consequence defense applications. The team is focused on building fast, intelligent interceptor platforms that must operate reliably in dynamic, contested environments. These systems demand exceptional performance across perception, decision-making, and real-time control. As a Senior Robotics Engineer, you will own the development of the physical control stack that governs how the platform moves, stabilizes, and reacts in flight. Your work directly determines whether the system can execute aggressive, high-speed maneuvers with precision. This role is hands-on, technically deep, and central to the success of the product. If you enjoy translating theory into real hardware that operates at the edge of what is possible, this role offers a rare level of ownership and impact. About Us We are a venture-backed defense technology startup building autonomous robotic platforms designed to counter emerging aerial threats. Our work sits at the intersection of robotics, embedded systems, and real-time autonomy. The team is small, highly technical, and execution-driven, with a strong emphasis on deploying real systems rather than research prototypes. While our current focus is defensive in nature, the technology roadmap supports broader autonomous mission sets over time. Job Duties Design and implement high-performance control systems to enable stable, precise motion during aggressive, high-speed maneuvers Develop and tune control algorithms such as PID and related methods for real-world robotic platforms under dynamic loads Write efficient, production-quality embedded software in Rust, C, or C++ for real-time operation and direct hardware control Interface with actuators, motor controllers, and sensors using protocols such as CAN bus within an RTOS environment Fuse sensor inputs from cameras and inertial systems using state estimation techniques such as EKF or UKF Translate perception and tracking outputs into reliable, deterministic motor commands that close the autonomy loop Build and maintain internal Python-based tooling for calibration, diagnostics, logging, and deployment workflows Support rapid iteration through testing, validation, and continuous improvement of control performance on hardware Qualifications 5 years of experience developing robotics or embedded control systems in real-world environments Strong foundation in control theory with hands-on experience implementing closed-loop control on physical systems Proficiency in systems-level programming using Rust, C, or C++ Experience working with embedded compute platforms and real-time operating systems Practical knowledge of motor drivers, sensors, and low-level hardware interfaces Comfortable using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and CAN tools Ability to work onsite with hardware as part of a fast-paced engineering team Eligibility to access export-controlled technical data under U.S. regulations Willingness to complete background screening as required Preferred Experience Familiarity with robotics middleware such as ROS2, DDS, or similar frameworks Experience with advanced control techniques including model-predictive or adaptive control Exposure to PCB design, signal integrity, or electromagnetic compatibility considerations Background working on safety-critical or mission-critical systems Prior experience in defense, autonomy, or hardware-focused startups Active security clearance or ability to obtain one Demonstrated passion for robotics or complex engineering projects outside of work Why Join Us Opportunity to work on systems addressing real and urgent national security needs High level of ownership and technical influence within a small engineering team Direct impact on product architecture, performance, and future roadmap Access to a well-equipped development lab with modern embedded and robotics tooling Exposure to complex, real-world autonomy challenges rarely found outside of defense programs Beneftits Relocation Meaningful equity Compensation Details $150,000 - $250,000 LI-AV

Keywords: Approach Venture, Killeen , Senior Robotics Engineer - Defense-Tech, Engineering , Austin, Texas