Job Description

Principal Robotics & Automation Engineer Onsite – Manhattan, NYC | Full-Time | Deep Tech Robotics Startup Silana is reinventing garment production through fully automated robotic sewing systems — built to handle soft, deformable fabrics with industrial precision. We're backed by leading investors and media like Forbes and TechCrunch, and we're looking for an exceptional senior engineer to join our mission. This role blends robotics engineering with industrial automation. You’ll help us go from the final prototyping stage to a production-ready and scalable system - designing, integrating, and deploying machines that push the boundaries of what robots can do. Key Responsibilities Robotic & Automation System Development Architect and lead the development of robotic systems to manipulate and sew soft, deformable materials like textiles. Design and implement motion planning, control loops, and multi-axis actuation using ROS2 and real-time control strategies. Own the PLC-based automation system, including Beckhoff/Siemens PLCs, IO systems, safety relays, and synchronization with robotic and vision systems. Integrate sensors (force, vision, encoders), actuators, and end-effectors into a reliable system that functions on the factory floor. Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to bring machines from prototype to production-ready. Perception, Simulation & Modeling Integrate and optimize industrial vision systems for fabric detection, quality inspection, and seam tracking. Work with simulation tools (Isaac Sim, Gazebo, or similar) for system validation and sim-to-real transfer. Develop robust state estimation, feedback loops, and safety strategies for real-time operation. Technical Leadership & Mentorship Set engineering standards for robotic and automation integration in an industrial context. Mentor junior engineers and support team development with a focus on speed, quality, and continuous learning. Collaborate directly with the CTO to align tech development with product milestones and customer deployments. Requirements Core Expertise 7+ years of experience building and deploying robotic and/or industrial automation systems. Proven ability to ship complex, multi-subsystem machines involving: ROS/ROS2, motion planning, and real-time control PLC programming (Beckhoff, Siemens, Omron, etc.) Vision system integration (2D/3D cameras, seam tracking, defect detection) Sensor integration and real-time feedback architectures Skilled in Python and C++, with solid system debugging and optimization abilities. Experience working hands-on in a lab or production environment — from first prototype to customer-ready system. Preferred Strong understanding of material handling, automation, or deformable object manipulation. Simulation experience using Isaac Sim or Gazebo. Experience in startup environments or with delivering machines into manufacturing or logistics settings. M.S. or Ph.D. in Robotics, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field. You’ll Thrive at Silana If You… Love solving hard, hands-on problems at the intersection of software, hardware, and automation. Move fast and prioritize real-world functionality over academic perfection. Enjoy mentoring others and pushing the technical bar across the team. Are excited to join a small, mission-driven team building technology the world has never seen before. What We Offer Be part of one of the most ambitious deep-tech startups in robotics and automation. Work in a real hardware environment with real machines. Competitive salary, meaningful equity, and direct influence over the product. Skills Engineering And Information Technology Industrial Machinery Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr Savvy, Inc.

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