Location:
Edinburgh, UK (Flexible, mostly on-site work, on-site at customer facilities as required) as working with hardware but can WFH when documentation is required
Salary:
£55,000 - £60,000 + salary review after 12 months with share options
** This role is exclusive to WAVE recruitment**
About Us
We're seeking an experienced Robotic Control Engineer to lead motor control programming and contribute to the next generation of intelligent recycling technologies. This is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge robotics that directly impact environmental outcomes — improving material recovery efficiency, reducing landfill dependency, and enabling scalable circular economy infrastructure.
Role Overview
You'll be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimising control algorithms for robotic arms used in high-precision waste sorting. These systems operate in demanding industrial environments and require robust, modular, and scalable control solutions. You'll work closely with our AI, computer vision, and hardware teams to ensure seamless integration and reliable operation at customer sites.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and maintain motor control software for multi-axis robotic arms (servo, stepper, brushless DC).
* Design and optimise motion planning, trajectory control, and gripper actuation.
* Integrate control systems with AI-driven computer vision modules and industrial communication protocols (CAN, Modbus, EtherCAT, OPC-UA).
* Collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure plug-and-play modular functionality.
* Optimise system performance for 24/7 operation in industrial settings.
* Support retrofitting into existing manual sorting facilities.
* Troubleshoot and refine high-wear components to improve system reliability.
* Contribute to system testing at our Edinburgh-based demo facility and during customer deployments.
Requirements
* Minimum 5 years' experience in robotic/motor control programming (servo, stepper, brushless DC).
* Strong proficiency in C/C++, Python, and ROS/ROS2-based environments.
* Proven experience with real-time robotic control, automation, or embedded systems.
* Hands-on experience with industrial robotic arms, manipulators, or automation systems.
* Solid understanding of kinematics, dynamics, and control theory.
* Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (CAN, Modbus, EtherCAT, OPC-UA).
* Experience with modular hardware integration and scalable system design.
* Understanding of AI or computer vision integration is a strong plus.
* Passion for sustainability, recycling, and circular economy innovation.
Why Join us?
* Be part of a mission-driven company developing challenging robotics technology with global impact.
* Work in a collaborative, fast-paced startup environment.
* Competitive salary with potential equity participation.
* Professional growth opportunities in a rapidly scaling international business.
How to apply?
Send a CV to