Robotics Software Engineer

Are you driven by innovation and a bias for action? Vaarst is the place for you. We're a tech company committed to making a real impact through groundbreaking solutions. Join us and be part of a team that turns ideas into reality.
 

Location: Bristol, UK - Hybrid 2+ days in the office per week

Salary: up to £65,000 + 10% company bonus

Vaarst focuses on making the world a cleaner, greener and safer place by deploying technology for good. We’re using techniques in artificial intelligence, autonomy, computer vision and marine robotics to create a difference in the world with underwater technology for our clients in offshore wind and the subsea industry.

Take a look at one of our products in action

 SubSLAM X2 - Unlocking the Future of Marine Robotics - YouTube

Founded in 2021 by our sister company Rovco, we’ve announced funding of more than £15 million, been voted one of the most innovative and sustainable companies working towards net zero and won awards for Best Use of AI and Best Technology Innovation.

Discover your place in a hybrid team of 100+ people that celebrates diversity knowing that every perspective is a valuable part of our success and that empowers you to achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.  

Robotics Software Engineer

You will develop autonomous systems, using your experience to shape new products and develop solutions to real world problems in the domain of maritime robotics, such as the autonomous inspection of offshore windfarms.

This requires experience working on the navigation, planning, exploration and control of robotics systems, for operation in complex and challenging environments. You will use your experience building and deploying production level autonomy solutions, to help shape the technology and processes we use to develop.

You will get the opportunity for hands-on experience trailing and evaluating advanced robotic vehicles in the water this is an incredible opportunity to help further the transition to renewable energy.

Vaarst is an exciting and dynamic environment meaning these are likely to change as we grow, upon joining your objectives and responsibilities will include:

• Solving hard problems with novel solutions in the field of robotics
• Contributing towards the complete software development process, from conception to deployment
• Collaborating on technical discussions and decisions
• Maintaining, modifying and testing changes to previously developed systems
• Testing and evaluating solutions both in simulation and real-world environments
• Working closely with researchers and the team to productionise cutting edge research
• Breaking down requirements and building appropriate solutions 

You Will Also  

• Make an impact in the energy transition space, helping transition from oil & gas to renewables 
• Be part of a great company with very talented people that will revolutionise an industry 
• Building knowledge in the company; share yours and absorb others’ 
• Continue to learn and develop your personal and professional toolkits with lots of opportunities for collaboration, and access to learning tools and events. 

You should apply if you have.

(we know it’s tough, but please try to avoid the confidence gap. You don’t have to match all the listed requirements exactly to be considered for this role): 

• Developing production level, modern C++ and Python
• Experience solving robotics problems, such as:
  • Positioning and navigation of robotics vehicles within uncertain environments
  • Mapping and path planning through unstructured terrains
  • Vehicle dynamics and control of underactuated vehicles using PID, LQR, MPC etc.
  • Interfacing with sensors and actuators
• Experience participating in field trials
• Experience of working with ROS and Linux/Ubuntu
• Industry experience with building robotics solutions

Grow together with Vaarst, you may have some knowledge of the following, if you don't these are areas you'll develop in. 

• Gain experience working in the maritime domains
• Knowledge of Computer Vision techniques, such as SLAM
• Working with 3D and Video data, including mesh and point clouds
• Using OpenCV library, PCL, Eigen, Numpy & Docker
• Using 3D simulation, such as Gazebo

At Vaarst, we’re committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. Our hybrid-remote approach and state-of-the-art Bristol Office Hub provide a welcoming space designed to nurture your creativity, productivity and well-being.

In addition, you’ll get an extensive range of benefits so you can focus on doing your very best work:

• Flexible, hybrid working so you can work when is best for you
• 25 days annual leave to start with increasing to 35 days after 6 years + bank holidays
• Private medical insurance, including Dental, optical which can be extended to your family
• Career and learning development through paid courses, conferences and events
• Curiosity fund – up to £500 to spend on learning which is not role related
• Up to 10% company bonus
• Pension up to 6% company contribution
• Life assurance 4X base salary
• Volunteering day, to give back to your local community
• Enhanced maternity and adoption leave
• Cycle to work scheme
• Recognition & rewards for doing great work and living our values and behaviours
• Flexible working options including, reduced hours, job share, phased return to work, term time working, compressed hours
• We’re a sociable, tight-knit team with monthly socials
• Hybrid working, Most teams work in our offices 2+ days a week to collaborate and be hands on with our technology. When you do visit our Bristol office is 10 minute walk from the train station, with a balcony, fresh fruit, snacks and drinks in the office

Join Vaarst in our mission to make the world a cleaner, greener and safer place by deploying technology for good.

Interview Process

At Vaarst, we've designed a straightforward interview process to ensure the best fit for both you and the company. We have adopted anonymised recruitment. This means that your name, date of birth and other personal details will not be seen by the hiring team.

• Application: Begin by submitting your application with your CV, highlighting your skills and experience relevant to the job. Answer key questions on elements that are important to the role.

• Talent Partner Interview: We will tell you more about the role, the team and Vaarst’s mission. This is a two-way conversation; we want to learn about your motivation, what you can bring to Vaarst, and provide answers to your questions.

• Aptitude Test: Demonstrate your critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and workplace personality through an aptitude test. It includes a timed cognitive exercise and a workplace personality questionnaire.

• Team Interview: Engage in a 1.5-hour interview with a few team members. Experience the role firsthand and share your skills and experience. We'll discuss our technologies, key skills, and team dynamics. As always, feel free to ask any questions you may have.

• Offer! If you are successful in the process, you'll receive an offer to join Vaarst and become part of our team.

We value the diversity of our teams and are committed to supporting and welcoming individuals from all backgrounds, knowing that every perspective is a valuable part of our success. Should you require any reasonable adjustment throughout the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to let a member of the Talent team know.

Empower change through technology, Join Vaarst