NASA Robot Algorithms and Controls Engineer

Job Description

Description

Job Description:

SAIC is seeking a Robot Algorithms and Controls Engineer on the OMES II contract to develop next generation robotic systems in support of the On-orbit Servicing Assembly and Manufacturing (OSAM-1) program with NASA’s Exploration and In-Space Services Projects (NExIS) division. This position is located at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD.

OSAM-1 is a robotic servicing mission designed to refuel a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite. It contains 3 elements: the Flight Element comprised of the OSAM-1 Servicing Vehicle (RSV) and development testbeds, the Ground Element comprised of the systems required to conduct RSV operations and the supporting networks and facilities, and the Launch Element comprised of the Launch Vehicle and supporting facilities and services. NExIS is responsible for the design, engineering, development, test, and operations of the OSAM-1 Mission through an integrated team at GSFC. The Servicing Payload design, development and RSV integration will be conducted at GSFC.

Job duties include:

• Design and document robot algorithms for autonomous and tele-operated on-orbit robotic servicing tasks
• Analyze robot arm stability and system-level performance during capture and servicing maneuvers with a client satellite
• Develop and execute plans to tune and verify performance of controllers and algorithms in simulation and on robot hardware
• Support test campaigns to validate dynamics models used in simulation to analyze robot algorithm performance
• Collaborate with robot software experts to implement robot algorithms on consumer and flight processors
• Support robot design, test, and analysis discussions with a small team of robot algorithm experts
• Create and deliver technical presentations to support the design and development of robot systems, including design reviews

Qualifications

TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience; PhD and 0 years related experience

Qualifications:

• Bachelors in Robotics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or Aerospace Engineeringand five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience; PhD and 0 years related experience
• Experience with controller design/modeling/analysis and their practical application for complex (i.e. MIMO, non-linear, flexible robot arm) hardware systems
• Experience tuning control loops to meet performance metrics within bounds of explicit system requirements
• Experience using MATLAB/Simulink, OCTAVE, MAPLE, Mathematica, and/or similar tools for robot algorithm design and analysis
• Mid-level programming knowledge of object-oriented programming in C++
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, organization skills, and teamwork skills
• US citizen or Green Card Holders

Desired Experience and Skills:

• Excellent knowledge of two or more categories of standard robot algorithms including forward and inverse kinematics, visual servo control, compliance/admittance control, and gravity compensation
• Hands-on experience with robot algorithm design, development, analysis, and implementation on robot hardware systems
• Experience conducting controls-related performance analysis for space flight robotic systems
• Experience developing test campaigns for hardware robot systems
• Experience with standard best practice software development lifecycle tools (git, bug tracking, unit testing)
• Experience with Open Robot Control Software (Orocos) and/or Robot Operating System (ROS)
• Experience with NASA mission lifecycle and review cycle (design reviews, requirements reviews, integration reviews, trade studies, etc.)

Overview

SAIC® is a premier Fortune 500® technology integrator driving our nation's technology transformation. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, civilian, and intelligence markets includes secure high-end solutions in engineering, digital, artificial intelligence, and mission solutions. Using our expertise and understanding of existing and emerging technologies, we integrate the best components from our own portfolio and our partner ecosystem to deliver innovative, effective, and efficient solutions that are critical to achieving our customers' missions.

We are approximately 26,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is core to our values and important to attract and retain exceptional talent. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.4 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.