Applied Scientist II, Robotics and ML

Amazon Industrial Robotics is seeking exceptional talent to help develop the next generation of advanced robotics systems that will transform automation at Amazon's scale. We're building revolutionary robotic systems that combine cutting-edge AI, sophisticated control systems, and advanced mechanical design to create adaptable automation solutions capable of working safely alongside humans in dynamic environments. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of robotics and automation at an unprecedented scale, working with world-class teams pushing the boundaries of what's possible in robotic manipulation, locomotion, and human-robot interaction.

We're seeking an Applied Scientist to join our Robotics team. This role focuses on developing innovative machine learning solutions that enable robots to perform complex manipulation tasks in real-world environments. You will work on creating adaptive learning approaches that combine traditional robotics with modern ML techniques to improve robot performance and reliability. In this role, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to advance the state-of-the-art in robotic manipulation, contributing to the development of next-generation autonomous systems that can operate safely and efficiently within Amazon fulfillment centers.

Key job responsibilities - Lead design, adapt, and implement novel machine learning solutions for manipulation robots - Create hybrid approaches combining classical methods with learning-based solutions - Design learning algorithms for automated parameter tuning and adaptation - Develop data collection pipelines and methodologies for capturing high-quality demonstrations of dexterous tasks - Build and test prototype robotic workcell setups to validate the performance of the solution - Partner with cross-functional teams to rapidly create new concepts and prototypes - Work with Amazon's robotics engineering and operations teams to grasp their requirements and develop tailored solutions - Document the architecture, performance, and validation of the final system Basic Qualifications: - PhD - Experience in patents or publications at top-tier peer-reviewed conferences or journals - Experience programming in Java, C++, Python or related language - Experience in any of the following areas: algorithms and data structures, parsing, numerical optimization, data mining, parallel and distributed computing, high-performance computing - Experience building machine learning models or developing algorithms for business application - Experience applying theoretical models in an applied environment Preferred Qualifications: - Experience using Unix/Linux - Experience in professional software development - Experience working effectively across cross-functional teams and partnering well with people at all levels within an organization - PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, or related field with focus on machine learning and robot control - Experience developing and implementing machine learning approaches for robotic systems, particularly in imitation learning or reinforcement learning - Strong background in robot control systems, particularly in force/impedance control and contact-rich manipulation - Experience with real-time control systems and robot motion planning - Track record of translating research concepts into practical robotic applications - Strong programming skills and experience with modern ML frameworks - Experience with demonstration-based learning and data collection for robotic systems

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US geographic markets. The base pay for this position ranges from $136,000/year in our lowest geographic market up to $223,400/year in our highest geographic market. Pay is based on a number of factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Amazon is a total compensation company. Dependent on the position offered, equity, sign-on payments, and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits. For more information, please visit https://www.aboutamazon.com/workplace/employee-benefits. This position will remain posted until filled. Applicants should apply via our internal or external career site.