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.

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.

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.

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

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)

Financial counseling services

Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).