Robot Operating System

Term from Robotics industry explained for recruiters

The Robot Operating System (ROS) is a popular software toolkit that helps robotics engineers create and manage robot applications. Think of it like a universal language and set of tools that different robot parts can use to work together. It's not an operating system like Windows or Mac, but rather a collection of software tools that make it easier to build robot applications. Engineers use ROS because it provides ready-made components for common robot tasks, saving time and effort in development. It's widely used in research, industrial robotics, and autonomous systems like self-driving cars.

Examples in Resumes

Developed autonomous navigation systems using ROS and Robot Operating System

Created robot control software with Robot Operating System for warehouse automation

Implemented sensor integration and motion planning using ROS framework

Typical job title: "Robotics Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Robotics Software Engineer ROS Developer Robotics Developer Autonomous Systems Engineer Robotics Integration Engineer Robot Programmer Automation Engineer

Where to Find Robotics Engineers

Online Communities

Events & Conferences

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you architect a multi-robot system using ROS?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how they would organize communication between multiple robots, manage data sharing, and ensure reliable operation. They should mention practical examples from past projects.

Q: What experience do you have with ROS2, and how does it compare to ROS1?

Expected Answer: They should be able to explain the key differences between versions, particularly in terms of reliability and security improvements, and discuss migration strategies.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle sensor integration in ROS?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how different types of sensors (cameras, lidar, etc.) can be connected and how their data is processed in a robot system.

Q: Explain how you would implement basic robot navigation using ROS.

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of setting up maps, planning paths, and controlling robot movement using ROS tools.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are ROS nodes and topics?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that nodes are individual programs that communicate through topics, like different parts of the robot talking to each other.

Q: How do you create a basic ROS package?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of the basic structure of a ROS project and how to create simple programs within it.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of ROS concepts
  • Simple robot programming
  • Basic sensor integration
  • Understanding of robot safety principles

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced robot control programming
  • Multiple sensor integration
  • Robot navigation implementation
  • Basic system architecture

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex robotics system design
  • Multi-robot system coordination
  • Performance optimization
  • Team leadership and architecture planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with actual robots
  • Lack of understanding of basic robotics safety
  • No experience with version control or collaborative development
  • Unable to explain basic ROS concepts like nodes and topics