Advanced Research Engineer (AI & Perception Engineer)

The Vacancy We’re looking for an AI \& Perception Engineer to join our growing team—someone passionate about AI, computer vision and sensing technologies , and eager to work on cutting-edge systems that power the next generation of autonomous solutions. The opportunity This role offers a unique blend of hands-on software development and systems engineering exposure . You’ll contribute to building perception algorithms and integrating them into real-world systems—working with sensors such as LiDAR, radar and cameras to support navigation and AI-driven platforms. You’ll also gain valuable experience in system-level thinking , helping shape how software and hardware come together into fully functioning solutions. What You’ll Be Doing Software \& Algorithm Development * Developing and testing computer vision and image processing algorithms * Working with sensor data (LiDAR, radar, cameras) for perception tasks * Supporting development in Python, C++ and C# (WPF) for backend and UI tools * Assisting with navigation algorithms and localisation data processing * Optimising and documenting algorithms Systems Engineering \& Integration * Supporting requirements gathering and system design * Contributing to system architectures and integration plans * Helping define data flows and interfaces across software and hardware * Assisting with system testing, debugging and validation activities Who We're Looking For We're looking for an experinced AI \& Perception Engineer, with * Experience with Python (OpenCV preferred) * Exposure to C# (WPF) and C++ * Understanding of AI/ML fundamentals and data-driven systems * Strong mathematical foundation (e.g. linear algebra, geometry) * Awareness of autonomous systems and sensing technologies * Ability to translate technical requirements into development tasks Desirable Experience Includes * Experience with LiDAR, radar or point cloud processing * Knowledge of ROS, TensorFlow or PyTorch * Understanding of GPS/localisation systems * Exposure to system architecture, diagrams or COTS technologies What Will Make You Stand Out * Strong problem-solving and analytical mindset * Curiosity about how systems work end-to-end * Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams * Clear communication and a willingness to learn Why join MTC? * Work on cutting-edge AI and autonomous technologies * Be part of a collaborative, innovation-driven environment * Access to industry-leading projects and real-world applications * Flexible working and strong employee benefits About The MTC The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) is an internationally renowned and respected research and development organisation, bridging the gap between academia and manufacturing, and is home to some of the brightest minds in engineering from around the globe. The MTC's engineers, scientists and technicians work with some of the most advanced manufacturing equipment in the world in a supportive and collegiate environment for the development and demonstration of new technologies on an industrial scale, helping manufacturers of all sizes develop new and innovative processes and technologies. Established to prove cutting edge manufacturing advances in an agile environment in partnership with industry, academia and other institutions, the MTC works with hundreds of industrial clients across a range of sectors including automotive, aerospace, rail, informatics, food and drink, infrastructure, construction and civil engineering, electronics, oil and gas and defence. The MTC helps businesses thrive by advancing their technological and engineering capabilities to improve their business efficiency, capability and competitiveness. Supported by one of the largest public sector investments in UK Manufacturing, the MTC's engineering capabilities cover research and development, advanced manufacturing management, factory design and training for the skills of the future. The MTC has world-class facilities in Coventry, Liverpool and Oxford, and is part of the UK's High Value Manufacturing Catapult, supported by Innovate UK. Reference Checks and Security Checks (where applicable) Due to the nature of our business, all employment is subject to satisfactory references being obtained alongside a level of security clearance checks.