Jobs UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER

The Bio-Inspired Perception and Robotics Laboratory (BPRL) is a facility in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Robotics Graduate Program at the University of Colorado, Boulder that conducts research and development in the areas of field robotics and biologically inspired robotics. We seek to distill the fundamental sensing, processing and feedback principles that govern robust behavior in organisms to enable new classes of robotic systems with improved agility, locomotion and autonomy.

The successful candidate will design, fabricate, assemble, and maintain custom drone platforms for laboratory research and flight testing, build and maintain CAD models using SolidWorks, design and integrate printed circuit boards (PCBs) for embedded sensing, power distribution and onboard electronics, integrate novel sensing technologies including cameras, event cameras, radar, strain sensing systems, IMUs, GPS, and other experimental hardware, and develop mechanical mounting solutions for sensors and embedded electronics while considering manufacturability, weight, stiffness, and maintainability. The candidate will also maintain accurate vehicle models, mass properties, and hardware configurations used in simulation and flight software, fabricate prototype components using additive manufacturing, machining, soldering, and general laboratory fabrication techniques diagnose, repair, and rebuild damaged flight hardware following testing and flight demonstrations, and support laboratory flight operations by preparing aircraft, verifying hardware functionality, and assisting with system integration and testing.

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Bachelor's degree in robotics, engineering, or a related field.

The candidate will need experience with CAD design using SolidWorks or similar mechanical design software, hands-on fabrication experience including 3D printing, soldering, machining, wiring, and mechanical assembly, experience designing printed circuit boards using KiCad, Altium Designer, or similar PCB design tools. The candidate will also need familiarity with embedded electronics, sensors, connectors, and electrical integration, python programming experience and basic familiarity with ROS2, strong troubleshooting skills, and the ability to rapidly prototype, integrate, and test new hardware.