Head of AI - Robotic Autonomy

Are you passionate about building autonomous systems that redefine robotics?

We're searching for a Head of AI with expertise in Robotics, Perception, Navigation, and Planning, specialising in integrating these capabilities with VLA/VLM/LLM frameworks and knowledge bases to achieve true robotic autonomy.

This is a hands-on leadership role that combines technical innovation with strategic vision, offering a unique opportunity to pioneer advancements at the intersection of AI and robotics.

Key responsibilities:

• Establish and own the adoption of state-of-the-art AI/ML and robotics technologies.
• Lead hands-on integration of robotic systems with advanced reasoning and knowledge-based frameworks.
• Develop robust robotic world models using VLA/VLM/LLM solutions or similar alternatives.
• Oversee end-to-end AI/ML workflows, including research, model training, and deployment in simulated and real-world environments.
• Advance semantic mapping, SLAM, and other critical technologies to enhance robotic autonomy.

About you:

• Advanced expertise in robotics, perception, navigation, and planning, with a proven ability to integrate these systems with VLA, VLM, LLM, or equivalent technologies.
• Strong background in robotic autonomy, semantic mapping, SLAM, and knowledge-based frameworks.
• A track record of impactful publications and innovative projects in AI/ML and robotics.
• Proficiency in Python, cloud platforms, databases, and modern ML pipelines.
• Hands-on experience in designing and implementing autonomous systems in complex environments.
• Visionary leadership and a passion for solving challenging problems through AI-driven innovation.

Location: London (hybrid working).

Relocation opportunities available.

Compensation: Competitive salary + benefits.

Join us on our mission to redefine what robots can do. With your expertise, we'll bring fully autonomous, intelligent systems to life, transforming industries and unlocking a new era of possibilities.

Apply now for immediate consideration.

Lawrence Harvey is acting as an Employment Business in regards to this position. Visit our website and follow us on Twitter for all live vacancies (lawharveyjobs)

Lead Validation Engineer - Controls & Automation

Are you ready to lead validation efforts and work on cutting-edge control and automation systems?

Do you thrive in ensuring the safety, security, and reliability of systems while mentoring a talented team?

I'm working with a leading company seeking a Lead Validation Engineer to take charge of their validation activities for automation products and systems.

You'll play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with industry standards, improving validation processes, and leading automated test executions.

What You'll Do:
* Take ownership of validation activities for control and automation systems, ensuring they adhere to industry standards (ANSI/ISA18.2, ISA-95, and IEC62443).
* Design and implement detailed test plans and specifications to guarantee product reliability and safety.
* Optimize validation processes using automated testing tools like JIRA XRAY, Selenium, or similar.
* Collaborate closely with development and cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges and align validation activities with customer expectations.
* Provide mentorship to validation engineers, fostering growth and promoting best practices.
* Maintain comprehensive documentation on validation processes, test outcomes, and corrective actions.
* Continuously refine and improve validation tools and methodologies for increased efficiency.

What You Bring:
* A degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
* Industry-recognised certifications (e.g. ISTQB / OT Cybersecurity).
* Deep expertise in OT technologies, SCADA/DCS systems, and the Purdue model.
* Solid background in validation engineering, particularly in complex control systems.
* Hands-on experience with automated testing tools.
* A thorough understanding of industry standards for automation and control validation
* Industry experience in sectors like Power, Marine, Oil & Gas, or similar.
* Knowledge of Cybersecurity validation and penetration testing.

Salary up to £70,000 + bonus + benefits.

Offices in Rugby, Warwickshire.

Eligible for SC clearance.


If you're ready to take your validation engineering career to the next level, apply now for immediate consideration!

Lawrence Harvey is acting as an Employment Business in regards to this position. Visit our website and follow us on Twitter for all live vacancies (lawharveyjobs)

Staff Research Engineer - Reasoning and NLP

I'm looking for a Staff Research Engineer with deep expertise in AI/ML, specifically in Reasoning, NLP, and Robotics, to drive breakthroughs that will push their technology forward.

This robotics start-up is on the cutting edge of AI and automation, where your expertise in AI/ML will power the future of robots and push technological boundaries.

If you're passionate about pioneering research and developing AI systems that power intelligent, versatile robots, and being at the forefront of innovation - this role is for you.

What You'll Do:
* Lead advanced AI/ML research with a focus on reasoning systems and robotics, using VLA and related technologies
* Leverage Large Language Models (LLMs), Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and knowledge-based frameworks to enhance reasoning, robotic intelligence and decision-making processes.

What We're Looking For:
* MSc or PhD in AI/ML, Computer Science, or a related field.
* Publication record in AI research, especially in NLP, robotics, deep learning, and transformers.
* Extensive experience with VLA/VLM/LLM/RT-X technologies or their equivalents. Proficiency in Python, cloud platforms, and databases.
* A demonstrated ability to develop novel AI approaches that push the boundaries of what's possible.

Offices based in London - hybrid working.

Relocation opportunities available.

Competitive salary + benefits.

Join this team as they redefine the future of work, building robots that not only fill critical labour gaps but also unlock human potential in ways we never thought possible.

If you're a top-tier engineer excited by the prospect of driving AI innovation in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you.

Lawrence Harvey is acting as an Employment Business in regards to this position. Visit our website and follow us on Twitter for all live vacancies (lawharveyjobs)

Software Engineer - Autonomy Robotics

As a Software Engineer are you passionate about autonomous robotics and solving real-world problems?

We're on the lookout for a Software Engineer to join a pioneering team developing the next generation of autonomous subsea robotics. These technologies are transforming how underwater work is done, making it safer, greener, and more efficient.

Our cutting-edge tools and practices are reshaping the underwater industry, and we are looking for a talented Software Engineer to join our team of experienced marine roboticists.

Your Role:
You'll be working on innovative software that powers autonomous systems used in marine exploration. You'll be involved in everything from the design and architecture to testing and deployment, helping bring advanced robotic solutions to life.

If you thrive in dynamic environments and are excited about driving autonomous products and projects forward, this could be the perfect role for you.

What You'll Do:
Design and implement cutting-edge software solutions for subsea robotics
Deliver high-quality, well-documented, and thoroughly tested code
Participate in field trials for subsea robotics systems
Translate customer needs into practical, effective software applications

What We're Looking For:
BSc or MSc in Software Engineering or a related field
Proficiency in C++ or other object-oriented programming languages
Experience with robotics middleware (e.g., ROS, DDS)
Familiarity with unit testing and continuous integration
Experience in mobile or marine robotics is a plus
A standout candidate will have a public code portfolio (GitHub, etc.)

Salary up to £75,000 + equity + benefits.

Based in Aberdeenshire, with flexible working hours and remote working opportunities.
There may also be opportunities for international travel to remote testing locations.

Want to hear more, please apply for immediate consideration.

Lawrence Harvey is acting as an Employment Business in regards to this position. Visit our website and follow us on Twitter for all live vacancies (lawharveyjobs)

As an Automation Engineer do you want to join a high-impact team driving innovation in electrification and energy efficiency?

As an Automation Engineer, you'll be essential in designing, de-risking, and delivering power, propulsion, and energy systems for UK and international clients, including applications in both surface and submarine systems.

Partnering with major players in energy, maritime, and industrial sectors to deliver state-of-the-art solutions that power critical applications worldwide.

What you'll do:
* Oversee all phases of the automation project lifecycle, from requirement capture and detailed design to integration and verification/validation.
* Design automation systems that meet high standards of maintainability, extensibility, and efficiency.
* Integrate hardware and software components, ensuring smooth system operations and reliable performance.
* Collaborate closely with internal teams, clients, and suppliers to facilitate the design and documentation process.
* Provide ongoing maintenance, fault finding, repairs, and system upgrades as needed.
* Conduct factory acceptance testing and commissioning, ensuring all work meets company quality standards and participate in design reviews.

Qualifications:
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or similar.
* Eligibility for UK Security Clearance (SC) and UK Eyes Only Clearance is essential.
* Strong background in automation systems, including experience with PLC programming, HMI creation, and SCADA configuration.
* Proficient in industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profinet, EtherCAT, OPC-UA) and knowledgeable in industrial networks.
* Hands-on experience in hardware troubleshooting and software debugging.

Salary: £42,000 - £62,000 + bonus & benefits

Location: Leicestershire (On-site)

Eligibility for UK Security Clearance (SC) and UK Eyes Only Clearance is essential.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work on impactful projects that support energy transition and decarbonisation through advanced technology solutions.

Apply now to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to making a difference!

Lawrence Harvey is acting as an Employment Business in regards to this position. Visit our website and follow us on Twitter for all live vacancies (lawharveyjobs)