Software Engineer for Agricultural Robots

This position is located in Morris, MN at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC), Morris, MN.

Position Overview / Responsibilities:
The purpose of this position is to assist a team of researchers to:
* Develop software for robot navigation and operation in crop fields supporting grant funded research
* Develop sensor/hardware systems to be used on an autonomous weed hunting robots
* Support other research projects and develop new ideas for agricultural automation

Job Duties
* 80% Create software for robot navigation and operation including hardware selection and interfaces like RTK GPS, vision processing, LIDAR, ROS, and CAN Bus. Collaborate with Renewable Energy Team to develop system solutions for weeding robots and ideas for new applications.
* 15% Assist with fabrication of robot electrical and mechanical systems. Test software solutions in simulation and support field testing.
* 5% Duties as assigned:  Will be expected to back up and cross train with other renewable energy staff members and help with outreach events.

Qualifications
Essential knowledge, skills and abilities:

* A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or similar technical field plus at least two years of experience.
* Programming experience with JAVA, Python, and ROS.
* Experience with navigation and robot controller concepts using GPS.
* Some familiarity with basic shop tools and electrical system troubleshooting.
* Must be able to work cooperatively with others and accept direction from supervisors.
* Ability to occasionally work for extended periods in outdoor environments.

Preferred knowledge, skills and abilities:

* An advanced degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or similar technical field.
* Experience with multiple robot systems and coordination.
* Excellent communication and writing skills.
* Ability to travel occasionally for training, outreach, or research activities.

About the Department
The University of Minnesota's West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) is located in Morris, MN.  The WCROC is part of the University of MN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences providing a tradition of excellence in applied agricultural research and education for farmers and rural communities in crop production, animal sciences, horticulture, water-quality, organic dairy, and renewable energy.

Benefits
Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

* Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
* Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
* Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
* Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
* University HSA contributions
* Disability and employer-paid life insurance
* Employee wellbeing program
* Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
* Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
* Financial counseling services 
* Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
* Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression