Tactile AI Research Engineer - Special Projects (Robotics)

Santa Clara Until 10/4/2026 3+ years exp First posted August 5, 2026 Last posted August 5, 2026
Job description

We are seeking research scientists and engineers with strong backgrounds across mechatronics, controls, haptics, robotics, simulation, and machine learning to drive breakthrough innovations in intelligent robotic systems. This position requires a hands-on approach, integrating software and hardware solutions to push the boundaries of perception, control, and intelligence. You will work alongside world-class researchers and engineers, contributing to technologies that power the Apple ecosystem.

Description

We are a team of best-in-the-world research scientists and engineers with deep experience in computer vision, machine learning, robotics, haptics, and related areas. We work on exciting new technologies that bring joy to millions of people. In our daily work, the team stays innovative, productive, and fun by sharing some key values:

Passion for the mission: We’re here to make something extraordinary. We seek whatever work is right and strive for the best possible results.
Modesty: The right answer is more significant than being right. We search for solutions as a team and value clear-eyed feedback.
Lean habits: You can’t grow without limits. Time constraints and big goals encourage us to sharpen our focus and learn to make phenomenal decisions.

Minimum Qualifications

3+ years of relevant experience successfully deploying tactile-based policies in robotics.
6+ years of relevant experience in robotics and machine learning.
Strong proficiency in Python and C++ with experience in complex, multi-language systems.
Expertise in machine learning algorithms and deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch and TensorFlow.
Strong software engineering skills, delivering clean, well-tested, and optimized code.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

Functional understanding of tactile sensing and haptics technologies to solve challenges in interaction and manipulation.
Strong foundation in robot kinematics, dynamics, motion planning, and control.
Experience with a wide range of physics simulation software and their contact mechanics (e.g. Mujoco, IssacLab simulator, Drake, etc.).
Successful record of employing machine learning techniques to achieve useful system performance.

About this role

Summary

Develop tactile-based policies for robotics using machine learning and hardware integration.

Job title

Tactile AI Research Engineer - Special Projects (Robotics)

Experience level

3+ years

Minimum experience

3+ years exp

Industry

software

Location requirements

Santa Clara, on-site role, no remote work allowed

Salary

Not specified

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

pythonc++pytorchtensorflowsoftware engineering

Preferred skills

hapticsrobot kinematicsmotion planningphysics simulation

Specializations

mechatronicscontrolshapticsroboticsmachine learning
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Santa Clara, CA, USA

On-site City