Lead Robotics Engineer

Essential Duties

• Design and implement high‑bandwidth control loops and advanced control algorithms (e.g., PID control) to ensure vehicle stability and enable high‑speed, precise maneuvers under dynamic load.
• Write high‑quality, efficient code (primarily Rust, C, or C++) to control and manage actuators, motor drivers (via CAN bus), and sensors on a real‑time operating system (RTOS).
• Integrate and fuse sensor data from cameras and IMUs (using methods such as EKF/UKF) on embedded systems (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson) to achieve reliable, real‑time state estimation.
• Act as the final link in the autonomy chain, translating tracking output from the computer vision system into reliable motor commands that accurately steer the interceptor.
• Define, build, and maintain Python tools for calibration, logging, and CI/CD, ensuring rapid iteration and deployment.

Requirements

• Control theory & embedded systems: Strong grasp of PID control, motor drivers, CAN bus, and RTOS fundamentals. Expertise in designing control and performance for robotics applications.
• Programming/frameworks: Hands‑on experience building embedded robotics systems. Proficiency in Rust, C, or C++ for speed and direct hardware interaction.
• Hardware: Experience with embedded platforms such as NVIDIA Jetson and camera pipelines. Skilled in managing scopes, logic/CAN analyzers, and basic rework.
• U.S. Citizenship and the ability to pass a background check

Nice‑to‑Have

Benefits

• Meaningful Early Equity: You aren't just an employee; you are a foundational owner. Your contributions directly drive the value of your stake in the company.
• Direct Roadmap Influence: Forget the bureaucracy of big defense. You will have a seat at the table, directly shaping our product and technology trajectory from day one.
• Mission-Critical Work: We don't build for "what if." We build systems the Department of War actively needs to counter immediate, real-world threats.
• The Builder's Playground: Work in a brand-new lab fully optimized for rapid prototyping, equipped with NVIDIA Jetsons, high-end scopes, and 3-D printers.
• 100% Employer-Paid Premiums: We cover 100% of your medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums and cover 50% of healthcare premiums for your dependents.
• Unlimited PTO: We value results, not clock-watching. Take the time you need to stay sharp and recharge.
• Zero Red Tape: You report to the founders. You have the autonomy to make technical decisions that would take months of committee approval at a larger firm.
• Austin-Based Culture: Join an onsite team in Austin, TX, where we prioritize high-bandwidth collaboration and rapid field-testing.
• Relocation Assistance: We want the best talent in the room. If you aren't in Austin yet, we’ll help you get here, to make your transition to the Silicon Hills seamless.

About the Interview