Robotics software engineer based in France struggling to find my first job and looking for advice
Hi everyone,
I’m based in France and I graduated about a year ago with a Master’s degree in Robotics, focused on robotics software engineering. Since then, I’ve been actively looking for my first full-time role in robotics software, but I’ve been struggling to get hired.
My technical background includes ROS/ROS2, C++, Python, Linux, Gazebo, MoveIt, OpenCV, Docker, simulation, perception, sensor integration, trajectory planning, and robotic system validation.
To stay active and keep improving, I joined robotics associations where I work on projects involving ROS2, autonomous navigation, simulation, robotic integration, and vision. I also started registering on freelance platforms, hoping to find small robotics-related missions or collaborations.
I’m mainly targeting roles such as Robotics Software Engineer, ROS2 Developer, Robotics Integration Engineer, Perception Engineer, Simulation Engineer, or Robotics Application Engineer. I’m open to opportunities in France, Europe, or remote positions.
Here is my portfolio, where I present some of my robotics projects and technical work:
Portfolio: https://portfolio-alain-ngoko.vercel.app/
I would really appreciate advice from people working in robotics or hiring robotics engineers:
- What would you recommend to someone trying to land a first robotics software job?
- Are there companies, startups, labs, or sectors in France/Europe I should target?
- What kind of projects should I improve or showcase more clearly in my portfolio?
- Is freelance realistic for a junior robotics software engineer?
- How can I make my applications stronger and stand out?
Any feedback, company suggestions, portfolio advice, or personal experience would be very helpful.
Thank you in advance.