Software Engineer

Ocean Power Technologies is seeking a Software Engineer for its Autonomous Vehicles division in Richmond, CA. The role focuses on developing software for WAM-V autonomous surface vehicles, requiring expertise in C/C++, real-time systems, and networking. Responsibilities include software integration, sensor data processing, and algorithm development for autonomy. A bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience are required. This position is full-time and onsite.
Software Engineer - Autonomous Vehicles

Location: Full-time, onsite in Richmond, California.

About Us:

Autonomous Vehicles, a division of Ocean Power Technologies Inc., is leading the way in marine robotics, developing and deploying advanced autonomous systems for ocean exploration, mapping, and monitoring. Our cutting-edge WAM-V® technology is revolutionizing marine robotics in over 12 countries, driving significant global impact. Based in Richmond, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area, we are a passionate team committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in ocean technology.

Learn more at wam-v.com and Ocean Power Technologies

The Role:

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to develop and enhance the software systems that power our WAM-V autonomous surface vehicles. This role is ideal for a highly skilled engineer with strong expertise in programming, networking, and communications systems, particularly in robotics applications.

While robotics experience is preferred, we place a higher priority on proficiency in C/C++, real-time operating systems, networking, and software integration for autonomous systems. Additionally, experience in computer vision is highly desirable.

This position provides the opportunity to work on mission-critical autonomy solutions, sensor integration, and multi-vehicle cooperation algorithms, shaping the future of marine autonomy and robotics.

Responsibilities:
• Develop robust, reliable software for control, navigation, and communication of autonomous surface vehicles.
• Integrate software with hardware systems, working closely with mechatronics and embedded engineers.
• Work with sensor inputs (e.g., cameras, radar, sonar, LiDAR, Starlink, cellular) to enable data capture, obstacle avoidance, and autonomy behaviors.
• Advance obstacle detection and avoidance algorithms, leveraging AI and machine learning.
• Improve multi-vehicle cooperative behaviors in surface, sub-surface, and aerial domains.
• Develop simulations to model vehicle behavior in dynamic ocean environments.
• Debug and troubleshoot software issues in complex, real-world operational conditions.
• Maintain technical documentation, including software architecture, APIs, and test procedures.

Required Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a software engineering role related to robotics, autonomous vehicles, or embedded systems.
• Proficiency in C and C++ with experience in real-time and embedded systems.
• Strong experience with UNIX-based operating systems and POSIX-compliant environments.
• Experience working with ROS (Robot Operating System).
• Expertise in networking and communications, including Serial, UDP/IP, RF, LTE, WiFi, and satellite systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to debug complex systems.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams.

Desired Qualifications:
• Experience in computer vision, particularly for obstacle detection and sensor processing.
• Experience in machine learning, especially applied to autonomous systems.
• Knowledge of SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) for autonomous navigation.
• Experience with SFML (Simple and Fast Multimedia Library).
• Hands-on experience with autonomous or marine vehicles or willingness to participate in field testing and sea trials.
• Familiarity with microcontrollers and their integration with robotic systems.
• Ability and willingness to travel occasionally for testing, field operations, and customer demonstrations.
• Eligibility to obtain U.S. government security clearance (if required).

Ocean Power Technologies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.