Research Projects Officer CSOF5/6

Research Projects Officer – CSOF5/6

Role summary for potential applicants

Advertised Job Title: / R&D Engineer – Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (SLAM)
Reference Number: / 13902
Classification: / CSOF5/6
Salary Range: / CSOF5 - AU$92K to AU$100K plus up to 15.4% superannuation
CSOF6 – AU$106K to AU$124K plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Location: / Pullenvale, Brisbane Queensland
Tenure: / Specified term of 12 months
Relocation assistance: / Will be provided to the successful candidate if required.
Applications are open to: /   All Candidates
Functional Area: / Research Projects
% Client Focus - Internal: / 50%
% Client Focus - External: / 50%
Reports to the: / Robotic systems Team Leader
Number of Direct Reports: / 0
Role Overview:
CSIRO offers an amazing research environment, and is one of the largest and most diverse research organisations in the world. Our Autonomous System Group within the Data61 business unit, located in Brisbane, develops cutting-edge technologies for field robotics (air, ground, aquatic, etc.) and produces novel solutions for industry.
The Hovermap team is developing the next-generation autonomy and mapping technologies that will transform industrial applications of unmanned aerial vehicles or drones. The team is also in the process of spinning out a company to commercialise the Hovermap System. This is a universal hardware and software package that allows drones to be flown safely, anywhere by anyone thanks to its unique SLAM-based lidar mapping, collision avoidance, non-GPS flight and advanced autonomy capabilities. After working with the Hovermap team at CSIRO, you may have the opportunity to be part of the Hovermap start-up and contribute to building a world leading company and state-of-the-art technologies that will have profound positive impacts on our economy and daily lives.
The CSIRO Robotics group has developed one of the most advanced and robust SLAM algorithms for lidar-based localisation and mapping. We are looking for an R&D engineer or research scientist to work on core technologies and applications of LiDAR-based Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (SLAM). The successful candidate will improve the efficiency, robustness and accuracy of the SLAM algorithm, and research and develop innovative 3D mapping and localisation solutions that are beneficial for industrial asset inspections and real-time navigation of autonomous drones.
Duties and Key Result Areas:
CSOF5
·  Review, optimise and improve the current SLAM algorithm for drone applications
·  Research and develop innovative, reliable, and efficient 3D mapping and navigation solutions to enable new and challenging drone capabilities
·  Improve the efficiency, robustness and accuracy of the SLAM algorithm through the integration of other data sources and other heuristics and modules
·  Augment the system with innovative, reliable and efficient mapping and navigation features and functionalities
·  Intelligent fusion of LiDAR data and camera images for more effective inspection and surveying results
·  Characterise and quantify the performance of the SLAM system in operational environments
·  Develop an architecture and API that transforms the existing SLAM algorithm into a general SDK that third parties (hardware OEMs) can integrate with their products
·  Work with internal teams and industry partners to prototype and develop core technologies for future products
·  Work effectively as part of a passionate and multi-disciplinary team and help out on all aspects of software and product development.
Appointees at the higher CSOF6 classification will also be expected to:
·  Manage and lead R&D projects Engage with customers and external partners to understand their requirements and derive system/product specifications. Develop complex software and SLAM solutions from concept through successful deployment of technology to the marketplace.
Selection Criteria:
Under CSIRO policy only those who meet all essential criteria can be appointed
Pre-Requisites:
·  Education/Qualifications: A Bachelor or higher degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronics Engineering or equivalentpractical experience.
·  Communication: High-level communication skills, both written and oral, including the ability to anticipate the interests and knowledge level of an audience and present information and feedback accordingly.
·  Behaviours: A history of professional and respectful behaviours and attitudes in a collaborative environment.
·  Adaptability: The ability to effectively manage a number of competing priorities simultaneously, and carry out non-routine tasks independently.
·  Problem Solving: Proven ability to investigate underlying issues of complex and ill-defined problems and develop appropriate responses by adapting/creating and testing alternative solutions.
Essential Criteria:
1.  A minimum of 2 years post-qualification experience in robotics or similar area.
2.  High level of competence in mathematics, particularly 3D geometry, statistical estimation, linear algebra and optimisers.
3.  Experience in developing embedded software for robots or unmanned vehicles.
4.  Demonstrated experience in developing and/or implementing SLAM algorithms (visual SLAM or lidar SLAM) for robotic vehicles (UAV, UGVs, cars, etc.) or other applications.
5.  Good experience and comfort programming in C++.
Note: For appointment at the CSOF6 level you must have a minimum of 4 years post qualification experience in robotics or similar area.
Desirable Criteria:
1.  Professional or research experience in robotics.
2.  Have written significant code for autonomous robotsand worked with IMU, GPS, cameras, LiDAR or similar sensors.
3.  Experience with robust, safety-critical, efficient code including RTOS.
4.  Strong expertise on all aspects of autonomous systems including sensing, sensor fusion, flight control, navigation, perception, path and motion planning.
5.  Track record of successful development of complex software and SLAM solutions from concept through successful deployment of technology to the marketplace
6.  The ability to thrive in a startup-like work environment (fast paced and collaborative environment)
7.  Self-motivated, able to work independently, entrepreneurial, with excellent time management
8.  Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System)
9.  Experience with Linux and Windows application-level (bash scripting, hardware drivers, system libraries) and OS-level programming – threading, scheduling and memory management
CSIRO Values:
As Australia’s Innovation Catalyst, CSIRO has strategic actions underpinned by behaviours aligned to Excellent science, Inclusion, trust & respect, Health, safety & environment and Deliver on commitments. In your application and at interview you will need to demonstrate alignment with these behaviours.
Data61 Values:
In Data61, our leaders will be expected to demonstrate the following values:
·  Hierarchy: Country, Company, Team, Individual
·  Openness: Open debate, collaboration, full commitment
·  Learning: Calculated risks, institutionalise learning, fast cadence
·  Impact: Tackle hard problems, create the future, focus on outcomes
·  Stewardship: Lead, make each function and co. stronger over time
Other special requirements:
Appointment to this role may be subject to conditions including security/medical/character clearance requirements. Applicants who are not Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents may be required to undergo additional security clearance processes; which may include medical examinations and an international standardised test of English language proficiency (i.e. IELTS test).- http://www.ielts.org/default.aspx
Other Information:
How to Apply
Please apply for this position online at www.csiro.au/careers. You may be asked to provide additional information (online) relevant to the selection criteria. If so, then responding will enhance your application so please take the time to provide relevant succinct answers. Applicants who do not provide the information when requested may not be considered.
If you experience difficulties applying online call 1300 301 509 and someone will be able to assist you. Outside business hours please email: .
Referees: Please include in your CV the names and contact details of two previous supervisors or academic/ professional referees. The selection panel will request your permission prior to contacting your nominated referees.
Contact: If after reading the selection documentation you require further information please contact:
Farid Kendoul via email:
Do not email your application to Farid Kendoul, applications received via email will not be considered.
About CSIRO
Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities across the nation.
Find out more! www.csiro.au.