1.21 Research Manager
17 days ago
Irvine
Job DescriptionField AI is transforming how robots interact with the real world. We are building risk-aware, reliable, and field-ready AI systems that address the most complex challenges in robotics, unlocking the full potential of embodied intelligence. We go beyond typical data-driven approaches or pure transformer-based architectures, and are charting a new course, with already-globally-deployed solutions delivering real-world results and rapidly improving models through real-field applications. About the JobWe are seeking an accomplished Research Manager to lead a high-performing team of research scientists and engineers working at the forefront of robotics AI. In this role, you will define and drive research strategy, oversee the development of advanced AI algorithms, and guide projects from concept through real-world deployment. You will balance hands-on technical leadership with people management, ensuring both scientific excellence and impactful delivery. This is an opportunity to shape the future of robotic autonomy by translating cutting-edge research into systems that perform reliably in complex, dynamic environments.What You Will Get To Do • Help Set Research Vision and Strategy, • Define and execute the research roadmap for robotics AI in alignment with Field AI’s mission and product needs, • Identify emerging trends, tools, and techniques to keep the team at the forefront of innovation, • Lead and Manage Research Teams, • Recruit, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary team of research scientists and engineers, • Oversee performance management, professional development, and technical leadership within the group, • Drive End-to-End Research and Deployment, • Lead projects from problem definition through algorithm design, simulation, testing, and field deployment, • Ensure that research outputs translate into robust, scalable solutions, • Foster Cross-Functional Collaboration, • Partner closely with product, engineering, and operations teams to integrate research into production systems, • Represent Field AI’s research externally through conferences, publications, and collaborations, • Ensure Operational Excellence, • Develop and implement processes for experiment design, evaluation, and reproducibility, • Manage resources, budgets, and timelines to deliver high-quality results on scheduleWhat You Have, • PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or related field, or equivalent practical experience, • 8+ years in applied research with a proven track record of delivering impactful results, • 4+ years of experience managing research teams, including hiring, performance management, and career growth, • Experience leading multiple complex research projects in parallel, • Strong technical background in robotics AI, machine learning, or related domainsThe Extras That Set You Apart, • Experience with large-scale field robotics deployments, • Expertise in robotics reinforcement learning, manipulation, perception, or multi-robot systems We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.