Chief Robotics Architect – AI-Driven Surgical Systems | Pittsburgh, PA

Are you an innovative robotics expert passionate about revolutionizing healthcare through cutting-edge AI and surgical technology? We are seeking a Chief Robotics Architect to lead the design and development of next-generation AI-powered surgical systems. Based in Pittsburgh, PA, this unique leadership role offers the chance to shape the future of minimally invasive surgery by driving breakthrough advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Lead Innovation in AI-Driven Surgical Robotics

Join a pioneering medical technology company in Pittsburgh focused on transforming surgical procedures with AI-enhanced robotic systems. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in robotics architecture, AI integration, and medical device innovation. If you thrive at the intersection of technology and healthcare, with a vision to deliver safer, smarter surgical solutions, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a profound impact on patient outcomes worldwide.

Key Responsibilities of the Chief Robotics Architect – AI-Driven Surgical Systems

Robotics Architecture & System Design: Lead the end-to-end design and development of advanced AI-driven surgical robotic systems. Define system architecture, ensure seamless integration of hardware and software components, and establish scalable, modular frameworks to support innovation.

AI & Machine Learning Integration: Drive the development and incorporation of AI algorithms for surgical precision, real-time decision support, and adaptive control. Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to create intelligent systems that enhance surgical outcomes and safety.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D, software, hardware, clinical, and regulatory teams to translate clinical needs into technical solutions. Foster collaboration to accelerate product development cycles and maintain alignment with medical standards.

Innovation & Technology Roadmap: Develop a long-term technology vision and roadmap for AI-enabled surgical robotics. Evaluate emerging technologies, assess feasibility, and guide implementation strategies to maintain the company’s competitive edge.

Quality & Compliance Assurance: Ensure that all robotic systems comply with medical device regulations, safety standards, and quality protocols. Collaborate with regulatory affairs and quality teams to support certification and clinical validation processes.

Team Leadership & Talent Development: Build and lead a high-performing robotics engineering team. Mentor engineers and researchers, promote a culture of innovation and continuous learning, and attract top-tier talent in robotics and AI.

Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate technical vision, progress, and challenges to senior leadership, investors, and clinical partners. Provide strategic insights and data-driven recommendations to support business and clinical objectives.

Project Management & Delivery: Oversee project timelines, resource allocation, and risk management for robotics development initiatives. Ensure on-time delivery of milestones with a focus on reliability, performance, and scalability.

Clinical Collaboration & User Experience: Partner with surgeons and clinical experts to incorporate user feedback and optimize system usability. Champion human-centered design principles to improve surgeon experience and patient safety.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Chief Robotics Architect for AI-Driven Surgical Systems, the client seeks a visionary technical leader with deep expertise in robotics and artificial intelligence, combined with a passion for transforming surgical care. You should be an innovative problem-solver who thrives in a fast-evolving medical technology environment and can bridge complex engineering challenges with clinical needs.

Proven Expertise in Robotics and AI Integration

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience architecting advanced robotic systems with integrated AI capabilities, particularly in the healthcare or medical device industry. You should demonstrate a strong track record of successfully leading complex engineering projects that push the boundaries of automation, precision, and intelligent control in surgical applications.

Strategic Innovator with a Clinical Focus

You must have the ability to develop and execute a forward-looking technology roadmap that aligns with clinical goals and regulatory requirements. The client values a leader who can anticipate technological trends in AI and robotics, adapt quickly, and translate cutting-edge research into practical, reliable surgical solutions that improve patient outcomes.

Strong Technical and Regulatory Acumen

A deep understanding of medical device development, quality standards, and compliance is essential. The client expects you to navigate regulatory frameworks and collaborate closely with clinical and quality assurance teams to ensure safety, efficacy, and certification of surgical systems.

Inspirational Leader and Team Builder

You should be skilled at building and mentoring a high-caliber engineering team, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and collaboration. The client seeks a leader who can attract top talent, encourage professional growth, and maintain a cohesive environment focused on delivering breakthrough surgical technologies.

Effective Communicator and Stakeholder Partner

Excellent communication skills are critical to articulate complex technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, clinical partners, and investors. You should be able to build strong relationships, provide transparent updates, and align stakeholders around shared goals and milestones.

Commitment to Excellence and Impact

Above all, the client values a leader driven by the mission to revolutionize surgical care through AI-driven robotics. You should be dedicated to operational excellence, quality, and continuous improvement, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of innovation while maintaining patient safety and trust.

FAQs About the Role – Chief Robotics Architect – AI-Driven Surgical Systems

1. What are the key responsibilities of the Chief Robotics Architect in this role?

You will lead the design, development, and integration of AI-driven surgical robotic systems. This includes defining system architecture, driving AI and machine learning implementation, ensuring regulatory compliance, collaborating with clinical and engineering teams, and guiding the technical roadmap for innovative surgical solutions.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in robotics engineering and AI, preferably within the medical device or healthcare technology sector. A strong background in system architecture, AI algorithm integration, and medical device regulatory standards is essential. Advanced degrees in robotics, AI, biomedical engineering, or related fields are highly valued.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The client is looking for a visionary technical leader who can inspire and guide multidisciplinary teams. Strong problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, effective communication, and the ability to manage complex projects in a highly regulated environment are critical. You should foster innovation while maintaining focus on patient safety and clinical impact.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?

Challenges include balancing cutting-edge AI development with strict medical device regulations, integrating diverse technologies into cohesive systems, and meeting rigorous clinical safety standards. Managing cross-functional collaboration between engineers, clinicians, and regulatory bodies while adhering to tight project timelines is also expected.

5. What is the expected impact of the Chief Robotics Architect on the company’s mission?

You will be instrumental in advancing surgical technology by delivering AI-enhanced robotic systems that improve surgical precision and patient outcomes. Your leadership will drive innovation, reduce procedural risks, and position the company as a leader in AI-powered medical robotics.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?

The company promotes a collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven culture focused on healthcare advancement. It values cross-disciplinary teamwork, continuous learning, and a commitment to excellence in technology development that directly benefits patient care.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Chief Robotics Architect – AI-Driven Surgical Systems, you can expect a highly attractive and comprehensive compensation package designed to reward technical leadership, innovation, and strategic impact in the medtech and surgical robotics sector. The remuneration for this role typically includes the following components:

1. Base Salary

The annual base salary for a Chief Robotics Architect in a cutting-edge medical device company typically ranges from $250,000 to $400,000, depending on company size, location, and the candidate’s expertise. Companies at the forefront of surgical innovation may offer salaries on the higher end to attract top-tier technical talent.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, performance-based annual bonuses are a significant part of the compensation package. These are tied to milestones such as successful R&D achievements, regulatory approvals, product launches, and team performance. Bonuses generally range from 20% to 50% of the base salary.

3. Equity & Stock Options

Equity participation is a key incentive in innovative medtech organizations. You may be offered stock options, RSUs (Restricted Stock Units), or performance-based equity awards, aligning your success with the company’s growth and market performance. In high-growth or pre-IPO companies, these equity components can significantly increase total compensation over time.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

Companies committed to long-term product development cycles often offer LTIPs to reward sustained contributions. These plans may vest over 3–5 years and are based on strategic deliverables and long-term company success, including FDA approvals, commercialization milestones, or market penetration.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks

As a senior technical leader, you will likely receive an executive benefits package that may include:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match or executive retirement plans
Paid time off and sabbatical options
Wellness stipends and mental health support
Travel allowances or company-sponsored conferences
Professional development funding and memberships
Flexible work arrangements or relocation assistance, if required

6. Signing Bonus or Relocation Support

For highly qualified candidates, companies may offer a signing bonus (typically $25,000 to $100,000) and relocation assistance if the role requires moving to a key location near the company’s R&D or clinical facilities.

Total Compensation Potential

Factoring in base salary, performance bonuses, equity, and long-term incentives, the total annual compensation for a Chief Robotics Architect can range from $400,000 to over $1 million, especially in high-growth or VC-backed medical technology companies. For candidates with unique, niche expertise in surgical robotics and AI, even more competitive packages may be negotiated.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary robotics and AI expert passionate about revolutionizing surgical systems, we invite you to apply for the Chief Robotics Architect – AI-Driven Surgical Systems role in Pittsburgh, PA. This is a rare opportunity to lead cutting-edge innovation in medical robotics and drive transformational impact on patient care.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience in robotics system architecture, AI-driven medical device development, regulatory compliance, and leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams. Emphasize your proven track record in developing advanced surgical robotics solutions and your ability to translate complex technical challenges into successful products.

This role offers a high-impact career path where you will shape the future of AI-powered surgical technology, collaborate with clinical experts, and spearhead innovation in a fast-evolving industry. Apply today to advance your career as a Chief Robotics Architect in Pittsburgh, PA!

For further details or to explore other leadership opportunities in medical technology, visit our Robotic-Assisted Surgery Talent Search Experts page.

Job Category: AI-Driven Surgical Systems

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Pittsburgh

Chief Robotics Architect – AI-Driven Surgical Systems | Pittsburgh, PA