Robotics System Architect

(Real‑Time Robotics & Low‑Latency Systems)

About Us

We are a defense technology startup based in Berlin , building the next generation defense layer against aerial threats . Our team develops mission‑critical systems that combine hardware, software, and sensing to operate reliably in complex real‑world environments. As an early‑stage company, we work in stealth mode and place a strong emphasis on engineering rigor, ownership, and rapid iteration.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Robotics System Architect to lead the design and implementation of the robotics and real‑time software architecture for our ground‑based defense systems. This is a hands‑on, mission‑critical role with end‑to‑end ownership of the robotics stack, spanning real‑time perception, decision‑making, control, and actuation . You will architect and implement a low‑latency, high‑reliability software system that integrates multiple sensors and electromechanical subsystems, operating under strict real‑time constraints. As an early team member, you will shape the overall system architecture, define software–hardware interfaces, and ensure the platform performs deterministically in time‑critical scenarios. This role is suited for a senior C++ engineer with deep robotics and real‑time systems experience who thrives in fast‑moving startup environments.

Key Responsibilities

Architect and implement the robotics software stack , spanning perception, decision logic, control, and actuation
Design and develop high‑performance C++ modules and ROS 2 nodes supporting real‑time sensing, tracking, and control
Build and integrate multi‑sensor processing pipelines , working with heterogeneous sensors and ensuring reliable data flow and health monitoring
Develop low‑latency control systems for electromechanical subsystems, ensuring deterministic feedback loops from perception to actuation
Optimize software for real‑time execution , including thread scheduling, concurrency control, and latency minimization
Define and maintain clear interfaces between software and hardware , collaborating closely with electrical, mechanical, and embedded teams
Lead hardware bring‑up activities , including sensor drivers, actuator interfaces, and firmware communication
Design system‑level data flow and communication architectures (ROS 2 or custom), focusing on reliability, fault tolerance, and safe state handling
Develop and execute testing strategies , including simulation and hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing
Profile and optimize system performance (CPU/GPU usage, memory, I/O) to meet strict real‑time requirements
Establish best practices for mission‑critical software, including coding standards, documentation, diagnostics, and monitoring
Provide technical leadership and mentorship , setting architectural direction and maintaining high engineering standards

Required Qualifications

Expert‑level C++ proficiency (C++14/17/20) with experience writing high‑performance, low‑level code for real‑time systems
5+ years of experience designing and developing complex robotics or real‑time software systems
Strong understanding of real‑time computing principles , concurrency, and deterministic execution
Experience working with or deploying on real‑time operating systems (e.g. RT Linux, QNX, or similar)
Hands‑on experience integrating sensors and hardware devices , including driver‑level or low‑level interfaces
Familiarity with common robotics sensors and protocols (e.g. cameras, radar/LiDAR, IMUs, SPI, I2C, UART, CAN)
Solid understanding of control systems , including feedback loops, stability, and real‑world tuning
Proficiency with ROS or ROS 2 , including custom nodes, messages, and tooling
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering , or equivalent practical experience

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with real‑time safe programming techniques , including memory management and lock‑free designs
Familiarity with embedded and edge compute platforms (e.g. NVIDIA Jetson, accelerators, or constrained systems)
Background in multi‑sensor fusion, perception, or tracking in real‑time environments
Experience with defense, aerospace, or safety‑critical systems
Prior experience in startup or small‑team environments with high ownership and ambiguity
Advanced degree (MS or PhD) or research experience in robotics or real‑time systems

What We Offer

Competitive salary
VSOP / equity participation
Hybrid work model
Dynamic and flexible work schedule
Central Berlin office
Extreme growth opportunity in a fast‑scaling startup

Who You Are (Startup Mindset)

Ownership‑driven : You take responsibility for system‑level outcomes, not just individual components
Adaptable and resilient : You thrive in evolving environments with incomplete information
Hands‑on : You enjoy architecting systems and implementing them on real hardware
Collaborative : You work effectively across software, hardware, and systems disciplines
Mission‑aligned : You are motivated by building reliable, high‑impact defense systems where performance and safety matter

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

Defense and Space Manufacturing

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Stealth Startup (Deep Defense Tech)