Robotics Controls Engineer

About the role

We're looking for a Robotics Controls Engineer to develop and maintain the core control systems that enable autonomous haul trucks to operate safely in mining environments. You'll work on localization, path following, longitudinal control, and steering systems that run on 200+ ton vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and tune control algorithms for autonomous vehicle systems
• Build Localization & State Estimation, Longitudinal Control, and Lateral and Control Navigation
• Develop state estimation pipelines that fuse multiple sensor modalities
• Analyze system performance through simulation and field testing
• Debug control issues using logged data and identify root causes
• Collaborate with perception, planning, and hardware teams to integrate control systems
• Write production-quality Python code that runs reliably and efficiently

Requirements

• BS/MS/PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related field required
• 2+ years of professional (non-internship) software development experience
• Strong foundation in classical control theory (PID, lead/lag compensation, stability analysis)
• Experience with state estimation (Kalman filters, EKF/UKF)
• Proficiency in Python and NumPy/SciPy for numerical computing
• Understanding of vehicle dynamics and kinematics
• Ability to read and debug real-time control code
• Experience deploying localization and controls algorithms on real-world systems

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with Model Predictive Control (MPC)
• Familiarity with path following algorithms (Stanley, Pure Pursuit)
• Background in signal processing and filter design
• Knowledge of system identification techniques
• Experience with heavy equipment or off-highway vehicles
• Knowledge of CAN bus and vehicle interfaces
• ROS or similar robotics middleware experience
• Familiarity with modern ML techniques for controls problems

Technical environment

• Languages: Python (primary), C++ (optimization-critical paths)
• Libraries: NumPy, SciPy
• Hardware: NVIDIA Jetson, GPS/RTK, IMUs, CAN interfaces
• Testing: Field testing on haul trucks, log replay, simulation

Why join us

• Work on real, production-deployed autonomy
• Build technology that directly improves safety, efficiency, and productivity
• Tackle complex challenges in demanding, real-world environments
• Be part of a fast-moving team with high ownership and impact
• See your work deployed and making a difference in the field
• Collaborate closely with experienced engineers and industry operators

Pay

The base salary range for this role is $119,000 - $161,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined on an individual basis and may vary depending on experience, skills, and qualifications. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package. You may also be eligible for equity awards and an annual performance-based bonus.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account Options
• 401(k)
• Equity
• Sick Time, Unlimited Flexible Time Off, and Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Pre-Tax Commuter Benefit Plan
• Team lunch in our SoMa office every Tuesday and Thursday

Schedule

• This role requires periodic travel to customer sites (up to 15%)
• Some schedule flexibility may be required during deployments
• This role is based in our San Francisco office. All office-based teams work onsite, five days a week