Robotics Hardware Engineer

About RationalCyPhy Inc.

Rational CyPhy Inc. is a research-driven startup developing next-generation autonomous systems for critical applications such as wildfire suppression and disaster response. With support from NASA and AFRL, our team is building field-deployable aerial platforms that integrate machine learning, perception, and robust autonomy.

About the Role

We are looking for a Robotics Hardware Engineer with strong hands-on experience in prototyping and field testing robotic systems. Ideal candidates will have worked on aerial robots (quad rotors or fixed-wings), aerospace, or autonomous vehicle platforms. You will join a small, collaborative team advancing the state of the art in real-world autonomy.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of the development of an autonomous aerial vehicle prototype, including assembling, maintenance, redesign
• Integrate embedded hardware: sensors, flight computer, camera, visual odometry, radios, and mechanical components
• Conduct bench testing, debugging, and validation of integrated subsystems
• Conduct field testing and iterative hardware-software integration and data collection
• Collaborate with AI researchers and software engineers to ensure system-level functionality and reliability

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a related field
• At least 2–4 years of industry, research, or advanced academic experience involving hardware development and integration
• Proficiency in one or more of the following: CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360), embedded systems (e.g., Ardupilot, PX4, Betaflight)
• Experience assembling and debugging sensor-actuator systems, embedded , or robotics subsystems or flight controllers, ROS
• Strong lab skills, e.g., soldering, wiring, debugging, power distribution, instrumentation
• Online portfolio of hardware or software projects
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• US Citizenship

Nice to have

• Experience flying and building quadrotors
• Field test experience in challenging environments (e.g., outdoors, hazardous conditions)
• FAA Part 107 certification or interest in UAV operations
• Prior work on federally funded R&D efforts (e.g., SBIR/STTR, DoD, NASA)

Why Join RationalCyPhy Inc.

• Tackle real-world autonomy challenges with high-impact applications
• Collaborate with a small, mission-focused team at the intersection of AI, robotics, and aerospace
• Access to state-of-the-art research and test facilities at UIUC and regional partners
• Competitive compensation, flexible hours, and opportunities for technical leadership
• Build systems that go beyond the lab — into fire zones, forests, and disaster sites

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,432.00 – $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you a citizen of the United States?

Ability to Relocate:

• Champaign, IL 61820: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to ckzeitler@gmail.com.