Robotics Software Engineer

Who we are:

Formic is on a mission to reshape American manufacturing by making automation accessible to every factory. As labor constraints rise, costs increase, and global competition intensifies, automation is no longer optional for manufacturers that want to stay competitive.

We deliver automation through a Robotics-as-a-Service model that combines industrial robotics, proprietary software, and full-service support into a single, integrated solution. By removing the traditional barriers of cost, complexity, and risk, we enable manufacturers to deploy automation quickly and realize measurable gains in throughput, safety, and operational efficiency without large upfront capital investment.

Backed by leading investors including Lux Capital, Initialized Capital, Blackhorn Ventures, and Mitsubishi HC Capital North America, Formic is scaling rapidly and building the foundation for a new era of high-performance, Made in America production.

About the team:

The Software Engineering Team builds and operates the systems that power Formic's Robotics-as-a-Service platform. The team develops the monitoring, provisioning, and data infrastructure that enables real-time visibility across a growing fleet of deployed industrial robotic systems. Engineering works to ensure systems are observable, resilient, and remotely diagnosable  focus is on building production-grade edge and cloud systems that support reliable data collection, remote troubleshooting, live video streaming, and continuous system improvement.

The team's work directly impacts fleet uptime, service efficiency, and customer outcomes by ensuring Formic's monitoring infrastructure is scalable, reliable, and continuously evolving.

About the role:

In this role, you will contribute to the development of next-generation robotic systems that operate in live industrial settings. You will work across simulation, algorithm development, system integration, and production deployment.

In this role you will:

• Contribute to the development of in-house robotic systems and core platform components
• Design and implement robotics algorithms using both classical and learning-based approaches
• Develop and maintain digital twins and simulation environments using tools such as Isaac Sim, Mu Jo Co , or similar platforms
• Integrate and improve computer vision and perception systems
• Develop production-quality software in Python, C, and/or C++
• Work with robotics middleware and frameworks such as ROS and Linux-based systems
• Contribute to both proof-of-concept prototypes and production-grade modules
• Integrate robotic subsystems with broader software infrastructure and monitoring systems
• Write unit, integration, and system-level tests to ensure reliability and performance
• Participate in Agile/Scrum ceremonies and collaborative technical design discussions

What makes you a great fit:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• 5+ years of experience in robotics, embedded systems, or autonomous systems development
• Strong experience with AI/ML frameworks and robotics-relevant models
• Experience developing or integrating computer vision systems in real-world applications
• Proficiency in Python and C++ (Rust is a plus)
• Experience working with ROS and Linux-based robotic systems
• Familiarity with PLCs and industrial control environments
• Experience working with industrial robot APIs or multiple robot OEMs
• Strong systems-thinking mindset and ability to move from prototype to production
• Located in the greater Chicago, IL and able to work in person five days per week in Woodridge, IL

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Our Total Rewards:

At Formic, we believe people do their best work when they feel supported both professionally and personally. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits and perks package for full-time, U.S.

-based team members, including:

• Equity in Formic:
  Participate in our stock option program and share in the success of a fast-growing start-up backed by leading global investors
• Competitive & Uncapped Commission Structure:
  Designed to reward performance and impact in commission-eligible roles
• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage:
  Medical, dental, and vision insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield and Unum, with 99% of employee premiums covered and 75% coverage for dependents, with optional buy-up plans available
• Additional Insurance Benefits: FSA and DCFSA, life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability through Unum, all 100% employer-paid
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
  Fully funded by Formic, offering support when you need it most
• Paid Parental Leave Program:
  Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
• Company-sponsored 401(k):
  Invest in your future with our company-facilitated retirement savings plan
• Home Office Stipend: A one-time allowance for fully remote and hybrid employees to support an at-home or on-the-road work setup
• Monthly Cell Phone Reimbursement:
  Monthly stipend toward personal phone and internet expenses
• Flexible Time Off:
  Take the time you need, when you need…