Robot Animation Scientist / Engineer

Department: Science

Location: New York City

Employment Type: FullTime

Job Description

We are seeking a Robot Animation Scientist / Engineer to develop advanced animation systems for humanoid robots. In this role, you will focus on designing, implementing, and optimizing motion algorithms and animation tools to create expressive and functional movements for real world robot characters. We anticipate the background of candidates for this role will include previous experience working on whole body control of virtual characters for realtime, interactive settings, such as videogame characters. Your work will be critical in advancing the field of robotics by enabling robots to interact joyfully and competently with their environments and safely around people.

A portfolio of academic research (e.g. publications in SIGGRAPH) on character animation or industry work developing videogame character controllers is expected when applying to this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Prototype algorithms and systems for generating natural, aesthetically-pleasing motions for humanoid robots, including locomotion, object manipulation, and expressive gestures.

• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to integrate animation systems into our robotic platforms, ensuring alignment with hardware constraints and performance requirements.

• Optimize animation systems for performance, scalability, and reliability in real-world robot deployment.

• Stay at the forefront of advancements in robotics, animation technology, and AI, applying cutting-edge techniques to improve robotic motion and interactivity.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Education/Background: Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field – or relevant industry experience (e.g. Master’s degree and 3+ years working on video games or interactive animation).

• Technical Expertise:

  • Strong understanding of kinematics and motion planning for humanoid characters / robots.

  • Experience with real-time character animation systems and physics-based simulation (such as used for videogame character controllers).

  • Experience leveraging motion capture to build kinematic controllers.

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++.

• Animation Skills:

  • Experience with technical elements of rigging, animation pipelines, and creating systems to drive expressive character / robot motions.

Nice-to-have Skills

• Familiarity with reinforcement learning, deep learning, or AI-driven motion generation for characters / robots.

• Familiarity with hardware constraints and actuator dynamics for humanoid robots.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work on groundbreaking robotics technology, enabling the next generation of humanoid robots to interact dynamically with their environments.

• A collaborative and innovative environment that fosters creativity and exploration.

• Equity ownership in the company

• Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, and Vision)

Compensation

$100k - $200k/yr, plus equity