Robotics Chief Engineer (Robotics)

TL;DR

Robotics Chief Engineer (Robotics/Autonomous Systems): Leading the technical architecture and end-to-end integrity of autonomous and robotic vehicle platforms for materials handling with an accent on system-level design, safety, and industrialization. Focus on integrating complex sensors (LiDAR, cameras), driving functional safety compliance, and delivering scalable production-ready robotic solutions.

Location: Onsite in Frimley, UK

Company

hirify.global is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and service of lift trucks and advanced technology solutions for materials handling.

What you will do

• Serve as the final technical authority for Hyster-Yale's autonomous and robotic vehicle platforms, owning the end-to-end system integrity.
• Define and maintain system-level technical requirements, design standards, and architectural trade-offs across hardware and software domains.
• Lead technical execution from initial prototype through production release and global market deployment.
• Oversee the software integration of sensors (LiDAR, cameras, radar), controllers, and autonomous navigation software into mobile platforms.
• Drive disciplined engineering processes, including design reviews, validation plans, and technical readiness gates.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to global engineering teams while partnering with Manufacturing, Quality, and Sourcing.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Computer, Robotics, or related discipline).
• 10+ years of progressive engineering experience in robotics, autonomous systems, automotive, or complex electro-mechanical products.
• Demonstrated experience owning system-level architecture and technical delivery of safety-critical products.
• Strong background in systems engineering, including requirements management, integration, and validation.
• Must be based in or be able to work onsite in Frimley, UK.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence across disciplines and organizational levels.

Nice to have

• Experience with autonomous vehicles, mobile robotics, or industrial automation.
• Proficiency with C++, Python, Git, DevOps, and Linux development environments.
• Familiarity with Matlab, Simulink, and Stateflow model-based code generation.
• Knowledge of functional safety standards and industrial communication protocols such as CAN, J1939, and CANopen.

Culture & Benefits

• Work in a "hands-on" engineering development centre in the South East of England.
• Opportunity to lead industry-leading technologies in the materials handling marketplace.
• Collaborative environment within a global robotics development team.
• Permanent full-time employment with a standard 39-hour work week.