
Robot Test Operator at Pickle Robot Company (Charlestown, MA)
Pickle Robot Company· Charlestown, MA· $30/hr·
Role details
Job description
About Us
At Pickle Robot, we're on a mission to automate global supply chains with Physical AI. Our robots work alongside warehouse teams to unload trucks and containers — one of the toughest, most understaffed jobs in logistics — making the work safer, faster, and more efficient for the people doing it. Loading trucks comes next, followed by the Dill Autonomy Engine: generalized autonomy that will eventually orchestrate robots across entire logistics processes.
We're looking for a tech-savvy and mechanically inclined individual who thrives on clear task ownership and isn't afraid to speak up when something doesn't make sense. You'll gain valuable robotics experience in a collaborative environment where your observations and insights directly shape our technology development. This role offers strong potential for career advancement within our growing organization.
You'll take ownership of daily robot operations, working closely with our System Verification and Test team and software engineers. Your role involves operating robots through touchscreen interfaces, driving equipment in and out of containers, and conducting 1-10 tests per day with increasing independence. This position offers the opportunity to upskill into robotics operations while contributing to technology that's transforming logistics across the country.
What You'll Do
- Operate robots through touchscreen interfaces to execute 1-10 test scenarios per day with minimal oversight from engineering teams
- Drive robots and equipment safely in and out of shipping containers and trailers following established safety protocols
- Perform routine robot maintenance such as cleaning lidar sensors and replacing components as needed (~1-4 hours per week)
- Monitor robot performance during tests and identify functional issues or anomalies, communicating findings clearly to engineering teams
- Collaborate closely with System Verification and Test engineers and software engineers to ensure effective test execution
- Complete required safety training for confined space operations and adhere to all safety requirements
What You'll Bring
- Relevant experience in similar mechanical and technical environments (e.g., manufacturing, automotive, mechanical maintenance, etc.)
- Experience in manufacturing, robotics, or automation preferred
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly throughout the workday
- Tech-savvy with mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn robotics operations
- Strong problem-solving skills with ability to identify and troubleshoot equipment issues
- Clear communication skills and proven ability to take ownership of tasks
- Comfort working in confined spaces and around moving machinery
- Strong attention to detail
Pay at Pickle At Pickle Robot Company, we believe transparency builds trust. The salary range listed here is provided in accordance with Massachusetts law and reflects what we reasonably and in good faith expect to offer for this role. We often consider candidates at different levels of seniority, and final compensation will reflect the level at which a candidate is hired, along with factors like experience and location.
Pickle Perks Pickle provides best-in-class benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance; unlimited vacation; paid federal and state holidays; 401(k) contributions of 5% of your salary; company-covered travel expenses; and other perks to make your working life more fun, comfortable, and productive.
Why work at Pickle Robot Company
- High-growth, VC-backed environment: Get in on the "ground floor of a fast growing, VC backed, warehouse automation company" with meaningful equity included in compensation packages. picklerobot.com jobs.lever.co
- Hard technical problems: Engineers work on computer vision, mechanical engineering, reinforcement learning, generative AI, and real-time robotics systems — with the freedom to make decisions without "this is how it's always been done" constraints. picklerobot.com
- Highly technical, collaborative culture: Team of ~113 with a heavily technical workforce (75 people in technical/engineering roles); ex-MIT culture described as "seriously motivated, collaborative, and fun." linkedin.com picklerobot.com
- Mission-driven work: The company's stated goal is a working world where "machines do the heavy lifting and people do the problem solving" — directly improving the daily lives of warehouse workers. picklerobot.com
- Location and perks: HQ in a "beautiful building in the heart of Charlestown, MA," with offices in Boston and Cambridge, plus an office in the UK; benefits include healthcare, 401k, snacks, cold brew, and competitive pay with equity. picklerobot.com linkedin.com
- Active and diverse hiring: 16 open roles spanning Backend Software Engineering, Machine Learning, Perception, Electrical Engineering, Motion Planning Software, Product Management, and Robotic Operations Support. jobs.lever.co linkedin.com