Principal Engineer - AI/ML, Robotics, and Textiles - SQUID3 Space

ABOUT US

SQUID3 Space specializes in highly engineered smart materials solutions for space & defense. Our core competencies include materials engineering for harsh environments, thermal control systems for dynamic space operations, and robotics systems for advanced textiles manufacturing.

We are committed to innovating in areas that enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve national security, with a focus on creating scalable technologies that meet the needs of our commercial and defense customers.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Execute and deliver an U.S. ARMY SBIR Phase I contract on smart tool technologies and collaborative robots (cobot).
• Own the development of an experimental cobot platform and architecture that supports military textile and spacecraft blanket production
• Investigate the latest research on customizing cobots for tasks that require precision and flexibility, such as wiring in electronic assemblies or positioning fibers in tight spaces
• Apply ML techniques and models to enhance production workflows.
• Leverage 2D, 3D, and tactile sensors to enable our robot to produce engineering samples and real-world products

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s in Computer Science, AI, Robotics, Electrical Engineering or related field
• Experience with machine learning models
• Experience working with sensory data
• Experience with perception for robotic arms
• Skilled in C++ & Python
• Familiarity with ROS, ROS2 or other robotics platforms
• Familiarity with Nvidia simulation stacks
• Must be able to start full-time work in February 2025 or before

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with different labeling for computer vision problems such as object detection, classification, and segmentation
• Experience deploying ML models and control systems in manufacturing/production environments
• Experience applying robotic arms and end effector systems to carry out tasks that require precision and flexibility
• Experience writing test plans, procedures, and work instruction documentation
• Design or test experience on a space platform
• Prior space-related work experience for a US government agency (NASA, Space Force, Army) or contractor

Primary Location: Boston, MA (Hybrid)

Salary Range: $50/hr

Expected Work Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate industry events and travel.

Note: This position will initially be a contractor role without benefits, transitioning to a full-time salaried position with comprehensive benefits in 6-9 months and stock options.

Export Control Requirements:

This position is subject to compliance with U.S. export control requirements including EAR and ITAR. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Opportunity:

SQUID3 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SQUID3 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.