Senior Robotic Algorithms and Controls Engineer

Company Description

At Intuitive, we are united behind our mission: we believe that minimally invasive care is life-enhancing care. Through ingenuity and intelligent technology, we expand the potential of physicians to heal without constraints.

As a pioneer and market leader in robotic-assisted surgery, we strive to foster an inclusive and diverse team, committed to making a difference. For more than 25 years, we have worked with hospitals and care teams around the world to help solve some of healthcare's hardest challenges and advance what is possible.

Intuitive has been built by the efforts of great people from diverse backgrounds. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere. We strive to foster an inclusive culture built around diversity of thought and mutual respect. We lead with inclusion and empower our team members to do their best work as their most authentic selves.

Passionate people who want to make a difference drive our culture. Our team members are grounded in integrity, have a strong capacity to learn, the energy to get things done, and bring diverse, real world experiences to help us think in new ways. We actively invest in our team members to support their long-term growth so they can continue to advance our mission and achieve their highest potential.

Join a team committed to taking big leaps forward for a global community of healthcare professionals and their patients. Together, let's advance the world of minimally invasive care.

Job Description

Primary Function of Position
Systems Analysts (Robotic Algorithms and Controls Engineers) at Intuitive Surgical advance the
capabilities of the industry-leading robotic platform for minimally invasive surgery though rigorous
and robust technical analysis. This position is responsible for the robotic and motion control
algorithms that enable new instruments for the da Vinci Surgical System. Required skills include
knowledge of control systems, robot kinematics, software development, and a solid
understanding of mechanical systems.
Essential Job Duties
• Develop and own the tele-operated motion performance of robotic surgical
instruments. Ensuring motion fidelity will involve:

• Working closely with the clinical development team to understand performance requirements; Working closely with the mechanical design team to optimize the mechanism for motion fidelity;
• Using analysis and experimentation to develop a deep understanding of the behavior and limitations of the instrument mechanism;
•  Modifying and tuning the algorithms to optimize motion fidelity and ensure consistent performance in the clinical environment.

• Implement features and algorithms to support new instrument development, including

collaboration with the design team to iterate through prototypes, analyze performance,
and assess feasibility.
• Perform risk analysis and implement safety algorithms. This includes documentation of
risks, requirements, and test protocols to support requests for approval by regulatory
agencies such as the FDA.
• Analyze field data to continuously improve the performance and stability of the surgical
instrument.
• Collaborate with the manufacturing team to develop automated fixtures for calibrating,
testing, and aiding assembly of the instrument. Additionally, determine manufacturing
test specifications that will ensure instrument performance.
• Lead by having a breadth of technical knowledge that enables a top-level view of the
entire project. Using this perspective, you will act as an interface between various
technical specialties; Take ownership of issues that cross disciplinary boundaries and
use your broad skillset to ensure the success of the project.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience
• Intuitive understanding of mechanical phenomena with ability to do rigorous analysis.
• Knowledge of classical and modern servo control systems.
• Knowledge of serial-arm robot kinematics.
• C/C++ and MATLAB programming skills, as well as hardware, software, and mechanism
integration skills.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Experience launching real-world, commercially successful products is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and the determination to solve challenging problems.

Required Education and Training

•PhD with 3+ years (preferred) or MS with 5+ years of
experience in robotics-related field.
Working Conditions
none
Preferred Skills and Experience
• Knowledge of Python and basic SQL is a plus.
• Knowledge of statistics is a plus.
• Knowledge of electrical and mechanical design principles and CAD tools is a plus.

Additional Information

Due to the nature of our business and the role, please note that Intuitive and/or your customer(s) may require that you show current proof of vaccination against certain diseases including COVID-19.  Details can vary by role.

Intuitive is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information or any other status protected under federal, state, or local applicable laws.

Mandatory Notices

U.S. Export Controls Disclaimer:  In accordance with the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR §743.13(b)), some roles at Intuitive Surgical may be subject to U.S. export controls for prospective employees
who are nationals from countries currently on embargo or sanctions status.

Certain information you provide as part of the application will be used for purposes of determining whether Intuitive Surgical will need to (i) obtain an export license from the U.S. Government on your behalf (note: the government’s licensing process can take 3 to 6+ months) or (ii) implement a Technology Control Plan (“TCP”) (note: typically adds 2 weeks to the hiring process).  

For any Intuitive role subject to export controls, final offers are contingent upon obtaining an approved export license and/or an executed TCP prior to the prospective employee’s
start date, which may or may not be flexible, and within a timeframe that does not unreasonably impede the hiring need. If applicable, candidates will be notified and instructed on any requirements for these purposes. 

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with fair chance laws.

Preference will be given to qualified candidates who do not reside, or plan to reside, in Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, or Tennessee.

We provide market-competitive compensation packages, inclusive of base pay, incentives, benefits, and equity. It would not be typical for someone to be hired at the top end of range for the role, as actual pay will be determined based on several factors, including experience, skills, and qualifications. The target compensation ranges are listed.

Client-provided location(s): Sunnyvale, CA

Job ID: e7838086-8d4b-4dc3-9fe9-2d2651af3f4e

Employment Type: OTHER

Posted: 2025-10-30T16:39:53