Fall 2026: Control Systems & Algorithm Engineering Co-op (July/August to December)

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Control Systems & Algorithms Co-op to join our team. This role focuses on developing real-time optimization and control algorithms for low-compute hardware that drive the next generation of smart household appliances.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement real-time control algorithms for appliance subsystems (thermal, fluidic, and electromechanical)
• Work directly with pumps, heaters, boilers, AC/DC, and stepper motors, and their drivers
• Interface with low-cost sensors (temperature, flow, pressure, torque, etc.) and implement signal processing, filtering, and estimation techniques (e.g., Kalman filters, etc.)
• Apply classical control methods (frequency response analysis, PID design, and tuning) to achieve stability and robustness in systems with significant delays and nonlinearities
• Rapidly build and iterate prototypes and test rigs to validate algorithms in real hardware environments
• Collect and analyze experimental data to identify system dynamics and optimize performance
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop system design, software architecture, and bring control algorithms from concept to embedded deployment

Requirements

• Current student in their third year or beyond of a bachelor's program, or currently enrolled in a master’s or doctorate program
• Full-time, 40-hour-per-week schedule with 5 days per week onsite in Needham, MA
• Strong understanding of control system theory (frequency response, stability margins, PID design and tuning) and design, including classical control and advanced control
• Proficiency in embedded C/C++ programming and experience with microcontrollers (e.g., STM32, ESP32, Arduino, or similar)
• Familiarity with real-time signal processing and sensor fusion techniques
• Comfort working hands-on with hardware systems (sensors, actuators, thermal and electromechanical components)
• Strong problem-solving ability and willingness to prototype quickly and iterate
• A natural and effective communicator capable of reducing abstract concepts to reality
• Naturally curious and relentlessly driven to find better solutions to everyday problems

Qualifications

• Embodies SharkNinja's success drivers: Rarely Satisfied – Adopt a “no delays” mentality in delivering against market needs/timing, Progress over Perfection - Make quick, daily progress and continuously adapts to achieve results rather than requiring perfect planning, Details Make the Difference - Can coordinate timelines & deliverables to ensure accuracy and consistency across all consumer-facing materials, Winning is a Team Sport - Ability to develop strong cross-functional relationships, Communicate for Impact - Strong communication skills - ability to deliver effective presentations to all levels of management

Skills

• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink for system modeling, state-space control, and model-based design (including Simulink Coder/code generation)
• Background in system identification, including real-time or machine-learning-based modeling
• Knowledge of nonlinear optimization algorithms suitable for low-compute, embedded environments
• Familiarity with TinyML, CMSIS libraries, or other embedded ML frameworks
• Experience with embedded system architecture and designing control software frameworks

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Health savings account (HSA) with company contribution
• Sick time
• Company holidays
• Employee product discount
• Product testing opportunities
• Referral bonuses

Pay

The hourly salary range for this position is $30—$40 USD.