Senior Controls Engineer – Autonomous Systems | San Jose, CA
We are recruiting on behalf of an innovative company transforming the agriculture industry with cutting-edge autonomous systems. This organization is revolutionizing agricultural machinery to address labor shortages and rising operational costs in specialty farming. Their advanced machine control and intelligent navigation systems are built to operate in challenging, GPS-denied environments like orchards.
This is a fully onsite role based in San Jose, CA.
About the Role
As a Senior Controls Engineer, you will design, implement, and optimize control systems for autonomous agricultural vehicles. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you’ll deliver robust and precise solutions tailored to complex field conditions.
Key Responsibilities
• Design real-time control algorithms for autonomous vehicles, including steering, speed, and implement controls.
• Develop robust feedback and feedforward systems for precision path tracking and vehicle performance.
• Collaborate with perception and navigation teams to integrate control systems with mapping and localization solutions.
• Analyze and optimize vehicle performance for stability and responsiveness under challenging agricultural conditions (e.g., uneven terrain, crop rows, GNSS-denied environments).
• Create and refine dynamic models for simulation and testing.
• Conduct root cause analysis of control-related issues and implement lasting solutions.
• Integrate control systems with sensors, actuators, and hardware.
• Document designs, test plans, and system performance for internal and external stakeholders.
What We’re Looking For
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in control systems engineering, ideally in autonomous vehicles or robotics.
• Proficiency in C++ and/or Python programming for real-time systems.
• Strong knowledge of control theory, vehicle dynamics, and ROS-based tools.
• Experience tuning controllers such as PID or MPC in real-world environments.
• Familiarity with CAN bus protocols, embedded systems, and sensor integration.
• Knowledge of path planning, optimization techniques, and testing frameworks (e.g., unit and integration testing).
Preferred Skills
• Experience working with agricultural or off-road vehicles.
• Familiarity with ROS2 and its integration into control systems.
• Knowledge of GNSS-based navigation, sensor fusion, and functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262).
Compensation
• Competitive salary in the range of $120,000 - $200,000 per year, depending on experience.
This is a rare opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and make a tangible impact in the future of smart farming. If you’re ready to take on this exciting challenge, apply now!
#ControlSystems #Robotics #AutonomousVehicles #AgTech #ROS #Engineering #SanJose #NowHiring