Director of Robotics

Job Title: Director of Robotics

Company: ExLabs

Location: Long Beach, CA

Job Type: Full-time

About ExLabs:

ExLabs is a pioneering aerospace company developing next-generation technology platforms for space exploration and resource capture. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation to unlock the vast potential of space for the benefit of humanity. We specialize in the development of advanced large-scale space vehicles and technologies, leveraging the latest innovations to tackle the challenges of space debris mitigation, object capture and control, deep space exploration, and resource acquisition.

At ExLabs our goal is to accelerate the utilization of space resources by providing unprecedented near-Earth access to natural objects. Our vehicle is being developed for object capture and trajectory alterations and redirection, providing multi-use technology capable of orbital debris mitigation, de-orbiting, and more. This next generation of vehicles will ultimately carry out deep space missions designed to capture and deliver asteroid resources, enabling access for resource extraction for industrial and scientific research.

Role Overview:

ExLabs is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director of Robotics to lead the efforts of our robotics team and drive the realization of our ambitious goals. As a Director of Robotics at ExLabs, you will be instrumental in developing cutting-edge robotics technologies. You will have the opportunity to work on complex, challenging projects that push the boundaries of space technology.

You will be responsible for overseeing the entire robotics systems development lifecycle, from initial concept and design to manufacturing, integration, and testing. Your strategic vision, technical expertise, and leadership skills will be instrumental in driving innovation, ensuring technical excellence, and delivering high-quality solutions. Your expertise in robotics will be pivotal in advancing our mission to create sophisticated, efficient, and reliable space systems.

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include concept development for robotic systems or components, trade studies and documentation, detailed design and analysis, presentation of design and analysis to review boards, fabrication of parts, specification of purchased parts, assembly of prototypes and flight hardware, and development/verification testing. The Director of Robotics will be responsible for leading the development and deployment of these robotics space systems for commercial and government missions.

Leadership and Strategy:

Provide strategic direction and oversee the overall development roadmap.

Provide strategic leadership and direction for robotics development initiatives, aligning them with the company's overall mission and objectives.

Drive innovation and identify opportunities for technological advancements in robotic design, systems integration, and mission capabilities.

Collaborate with the executive team to align development objectives with the company's vision and business goals.

Technical Expertise:

Develop technology roadmap for use of robotics in deep space missions (asteroid capture) and LEO missions (debris mitigation)

Lead and mentor a team of engineers and scientists to design, develop, and test advanced robotic systems.

Stay abreast of emerging trends and advancements in the field of space robotics, identifying areas for potential integration into ExLabs' technologies.

Provide expertise in the integration of robotics with aerospace technologies with a focus on increasing the TRL of the system.

Work on fault-tolerant systems and ensure the robustness of robotic applications in variable aerospace environments.

Develop simulation and testing environments for robotic systems to ensure safety and efficacy before deployment.

Project Management:

Oversee the execution of development projects, including budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management.

Foster a culture of collaboration and cross-functional teamwork to ensure seamless integration across teams.

Monitor project progress, identify potential bottlenecks, and implement strategies to ensure timely delivery of high-quality platforms.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Establish and maintain strong relationships with customers, partners, and government agencies to foster strategic partnerships, secure funding opportunities, and participate in industry forums and conferences.

Collaborate with business development to identify and pursue new opportunities, including potential partnerships and collaborations.

Represent ExLabs in industry events, conferences, and technical forums to showcase our expertise and promote our robotics development capabilities.

Specific Technology:

Robotic systems using ROS, C++, and Python in Linux OS.

Tendon actuated robotic mechanisms

Computer vision and reinforcement learning

Advanced control systems and algorithms for robotic motion and navigation.

Development of real-time systems for autonomous robotics operations.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's, preferably a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related technical field with typically a minimum of 10 years related experience (advanced degree preferred).

Ability to operate independently in a high paced environment common for early stage startup

Ability to make decisions fast based on limited information and readiness to correct them quickly

Experience with rapid prototyping and scale models

Significant expertise in the implementation of a robotic system or subsystem for spaceflight or terrestrial applications.

Leadership of design teams to address major robotics technical issues; developing recommendations and advising management on those recommendation

Leadership in the development of highly complex and critical systems

Experience developing piece-parts and mechanical systems; and taking part in fabrication, assembly, and test of mechanical, aerospace or robotic systems.

Experience and skilled in design and analysis using CAD program SolidWorks

High level of proficiency in use of one more numerical analysis tool kits such as MATLAB Simulink

Knowledge of bolted joint analysis, finite element analysis, GD&T, traditional manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, material selection, structures, and mechanisms.

Familiarity with robotic operating systems, machine vision, simulation, and/or autonomy software such as ROS, C++, and Python in Linux OS.

Previous experience in Robotics, Advanced State Estimation, Visual Odometry, Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), Motion Analysis Techniques, and 3D Environmental Reconstruction

Strong skills in computer vision and reinforcement learning.

Experience with tendon actuated robots is highly desirable.

A track record of successful project execution in robotics.

At ExLabs, we are passionate about pushing the boundaries of space exploration and technology development. If you have a deep passion for space and the desire to make a significant impact in the industry, we invite you to join our team at ExLabs. Together, we will shape the future of space exploration and unlock the limitless potential of the cosmos.

Benefits

We embrace healthy work-life balance, and living healthy fulfilling lives as we journey together to explore the edges of the known possible

Best-in-class healthcare, dental, and vision

Life insurance

Unlimited PTO

401K

Paternity/maternity leave

Free Lunch

Sponsored exploration & learning programs

A collaborative, inclusive, and dynamic work environment.

Free Lunch

Sponsored exploration & learning programs

The full-time annual salary range for this job is:

$180,000 - $220,000 + Initial Equity

ExLabs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

Due to rules imposed by the US Government, ExLabs will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).