Principal Robotics Safety Engineer

Summary
As a Principal Robotics Safety Engineer, you will serve as the senior subject matter expert and technical leader for robotics safety engineering initiatives. This position requires deep knowledge of robotics safety standards, complex system integration, and lifecycle safety management. You will lead multidisciplinary safety programs, guide clients through compliance with international robotics safety standards, and mentor engineers across all levels.
Responsibilities
Manage and direct safety programs for advanced robotics systems, including program definition, budget, schedule, and reporting.
Lead technical safety activities, including planning, risk assessment, hazard analysis, and validation across robotic platforms and automation systems.
Develop, implement, and review safety requirements and safety plans in compliance with ISO 13849, IEC 61508, and ISO 13482.
Conduct and oversee detailed safety analyses, including FTA, FMEA, FMEDA, and RBD studies.
Interpret and apply robotics safety regulations and standards to client projects; ensure alignment with applicable international and industry requirements.
Lead technical reviews and audits to verify adherence to safety lifecycles and engineering best practices.
Mentor and develop Junior and Senior Safety Engineers, fostering technical growth in robotics-specific safety methodologies.
Advise clients on the implementation of functional safety architectures for robotic and automated systems.
Present at industry events and publish papers to advance the state of robotics safety engineering.
Support business development through networking, client engagement, and strategic project acquisition.
Qualifications
15–20+ years of experience in safety engineering, with at least 8 years in robotics or industrial automation.
Proven leadership in developing and managing complex safety programs for robotics systems.
Advanced knowledge of robotics safety standards and lifecycles, including IEC 61508, ISO 13849, and ISO 13482.
Expertise in system and software safety analysis, including hazard identification, SIL/PL determination, and verification activities.
Strong technical writing and communication skills, capable of translating complex analyses into clear, actionable documentation.
Experience with both hardware and software safety in collaborative and autonomous robotics applications.
Certifications
Required
Functional Safety Expert (FSE) or equivalent certification.
Preferred
Professional Engineer (PE) license.
TÜV or Exida Functional Safety Certification for Robotics or Machinery.
Work Environment
The Principal Robotics Safety Engineer role is fully remote, with occasional travel to client facilities and robotics sites for assessments and program reviews. Work will primarily be conducted from a home office.
Benefits
Flexible scheduling.
Company-matched 401(k).
Company-matched HSA available.
Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance coverage.
Generous PTO.
About CSA
CSA is a specialized safety consulting company serving the rail and robotics industries. The team is dedicated to helping clients develop and certify safety-critical systems in alignment with global standards. CSA is driven by its mission to create a safer world, emphasizing collaboration, continuous learning, and technical excellence in all aspects of system safety.

Work arrangement
Yes