Lead C++ Architecture Engineer

Summary

Headquartered in sunny Los Angeles, GrayMatter Robotics is a well-capitalized AI robotics startup serving the manufacturing industry. We empower shop floor workers with our smart robots that assist with tedious and ergonomically challenging tasks, specifically in automated surface finishing. Our proprietary GMR-AI™ software is integrated with state-of-the-art industrial robots, sensors, and tools to create application-specific turnkey solutions for customers through a Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) model.

We help manufacturers improve the quality of life for their workforce while increasing production capacity, and reducing scrap, repair, and rework costs. As a Lead C++ Architecture Engineer, you will join our Robotics Software Engineering Team onsite in our Carson, CA office to design and implement robust, scalable software architectures that power our advanced robotic systems. You will lead the development of core C++ and ROS/ROS 2 components, architect high-performance subsystems, and integrate cutting-edge hardware to deliver reliable, production-ready automation solutions.

Role & Responsibilities

As a Lead C++ Architecture Engineer, you will…

• Design and implement high-quality C++ (and some Python tooling) for ROS/ROS 2 nodes, libraries, and utilities (rcl-cpp, actions/services, components, lifecycle, launch).

• Integrate and support sensors and actuators (cameras, LiDAR, robot controllers); develop and maintain device drivers, message interfaces, health checks, and diagnostics.

• Architect scalable, testable subsystems (configuration, state machines, fault recovery, observability) using robust design patterns.

• Diagnose and resolve performance and scalability challenges.

• Own components, features, or systems with end-to-end responsibility.

• Develop reusable software components for interfacing with back-end platforms.

• Partner with cross-functional teams (product, design, operations, infrastructure) to create innovative application experiences.

• Continuously improve code quality, efficiency, and performance.

• Conduct reviews, write clear documentation, and advocate best practices for safety, reliability, and maintainability.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics or equivalent practical experience.

• 5+ years of industry experience in developing and shipping production software in modern C++ (14/17/20).

• Proven track record of owning and delivering components, features, or systems.

• Familiarity with large-scale system design and architecture best practices.

• Experience with concurrency and real-time programming.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

• Excellent communication and cross-team collaboration skills.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

• Must secure work authorization in the United States and maintain ongoing work authorization beginning at the time of hire through the entirety of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Computer Science or Robotics.

• 3+ years of hands-on experience with ROS or ROS 2 (nodes, messages, actions/services, launch, packaging).

• Strong skills in debugging and troubleshooting real robots/embedded systems (logs, tracing, sanitizers, core dumps).

• Expertise in object-oriented design and API development; familiarity with SOLID principles and clean architecture.

• Proficiency with Linux, CMake/colcon, Git, and common CI tools (e.g., GitHub Actions, GitLab CI).

• Solid foundation in algorithms and data structures.

• Recognized as a technical mentor or thought leader.

GrayMatter Robotics provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage and embrace applicants of all backgrounds to apply!

GrayMatter Robotics is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities. If you believe you require accommodations during the recruiting process, please contact accommodations@graymatter-robotics.com to submit your request.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Compensation for this position includes the base salary range of $134,100 - $180,000 USD plus bonus and equity. We also provide comprehensive benefits and perks which include but are not limited to medical, dental, vision, unlimited PTO, 401(k) plan + employer match, regular offsite events, a discretionary fund for enhancing productivity and so much more! The range listed on job postings reflect the minimum and maximum new hire salary across levels in Los Angeles, CA.