Platform Control Software Engineer

About Forterra

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions.

About the role

• We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Platform Control Software Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in control theory, AI, as well as a passion for developing advanced control systems for autonomous vehicles. You will be responsible for working on the platform control software that translates motion planner trajectories to drive-by-wire commands.

What you'll do

• Control Systems Development:
• • Architect and develop control software modules for vehicle actuation systems.
  • Implement control algorithms for throttle, brake, and steering actuators.
  • Implement and tune trajectory following algorithms.
  • Interface and integrate with body control systems for base vehicle platforms.
  • Interface and integrate with base vehicle platform CAN bus network.
• Hands-On Contribution: 
• • Develop and troubleshoot on base vehicle platform.
  • Engage directly in coding, testing, and debugging.
  • Develop solutions for unknown technical challenges.
• Innovation and AI Integration:
• • Explore and implement AI and machine learning techniques for control model training.
  • Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.

What We're Looking For

• Mission-First Mindset - We put the needs of the mission and our customers first and understand that the US and its allies have no preordained right to victory in any future conflict.
• Ownership Mentality - We’re looking for owners; those who have a natural bias to assume responsibility, a healthy dose of skepticism, and contribute to a culture of performance.
• Technical Aptitude and Intellectual Curiosity - We are first and foremost a technology company, working at the leading edge of capabilities like machine learning, autonomy, distributed networking, and multi-modal sensor fusion.
• Structured Thinker and Problem Solver – Working with technical programs requires clear communication and well-thought-out plans. A solution-driven approach, the ability to distill complexity into its essential, digestible components, and the ability to supervise execution are critical to ensure mission success.

Qualifications

• Strong background in control theory and control systems design.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink.
• Experience with vehicle dynamics and actuation systems.
• Strong product mindset with a focus on delivering customer value.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with real-world controls experience in automotive, aerospace, or related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with AI and machine learning techniques for control systems is a plus.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Control Systems, or a related field.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in control systems engineering.
• Experience in a fast-paced startup environment is highly preferred.

Travel Requirements: 10-25%

US Salary Range
 $100,000—$200,000
 

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:

• Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.  
• Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance, Legal & ID protection plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
• A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. 
• A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
• Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 
• 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.  

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain. All qualified applications will receive equal consideration for employment.