Robotics State Estimation and Control Generalist
Role Description
The Vehicle Generalization team within Robotics Engineering is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Robotics State Estimation and Control Generalist to ensure the successful integration, characterization, and stable operation of our autonomous driving software across a growing range of new vehicle platforms. This role is critical for the initial bring-up phases of new vehicle development programs (ADPs), requiring deep expertise in control systems, state estimation, and hands-on system troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will be a generalist capable of quickly tackling complex, low-level robotics challenges on-site at our Sunnyvale location, working closely with Application Engineering and external customer teams.
Key Responsibilities
Algorithm Refinement and Tuning: Refine, tune, and generalize controller, state-estimation (odometry, localization), and perception algorithms for performance and stability across various new vehicle platforms.
Platform Stability Ownership: Own the stability and performance of new vehicle platforms during the critical ADP bring-up phases, including on-vehicle debugging and integration work.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with Application Engineering, Vehicle SoftwareIntegration, and Control teams to troubleshoot integration issues and provide expertise on the control stack.
Customer Program Support: Provide on-the-ground technical support for key customer programs (e.g., Nissan), which may require domestic and international travel.
Required Skills and Experience
Experience: 3+ years of experience in a robotics or automotive context with hands-on robotic system characterization and system identification.
Core Robotics Expertise: Strong background and practical experience with control system design, state estimation (including odometry and localization), and sensor fusion.
Programming: Proficiency in C++ and Python.
System Thinking: Demonstrated strong robotics system thinking, enabling quick diagnosis and resolution of complex integration issues in dynamic environments.
Location/Travel: Willingness and ability to travel (domestic and international) for on-the-ground customer and vehicle support. Must be based in Sunnyvale, CA.
Nice-to-Have Skills and Experience
Experience with automotive Drive-by-Wire (DBW) systems is strongly preferred.
Familiarity with mapping/navigation data and advanced odometry techniques.
Experience with data-driven development, including defining metrics, building tooling, and performing data analysis.
Experience with advanced control techniques, particularly where motion planning/control is influenced by or performed by a neural network.
Experience building and maintaining data pipelines for robotics development.
Excellent cross-functional communication and teamwork skills.
This role is a full-time role based in Sunnyvale, CA (hybrid) and the reasonably estimated salary for this role ranges from $209,700 to $253,000, plus a competitive equity package. Actual compensation is based on the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.