Robotics Controls Engineer

Cssmerge; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 182,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

401(k)

Unlimited Flexible Time Off

Equity

Job summary

Cssmerge is looking for a Robotics Controls Engineer based in San Francisco to develop core control systems for autonomous haul trucks. This role involves designing control algorithms, developing state estimation pipelines, and debugging control issues.

Candidates should have a BS/MS/PhD in Robotics or a related field, along with experience in software development in Python. A strong understanding of classical control theory and signal processing is required. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of professional software development experience.
• Strong foundation in classical control theory (PID, stability analysis).
• Proficiency in Python and experience with NumPy/SciPy.

Responsibilities

• Design and tune control algorithms for autonomous vehicle systems.
• Develop state estimation pipelines that fuse multiple sensor modalities.
• Collaborate with teams to integrate control systems.

Skills

Classical control theory

Python

State estimation

Vehicle dynamics

Signal processing

Kalman filters

Real-time control code debugging

Education

BS/MS/PhD in Robotics or related field

Tools

NumPy

SciPy

ROS

Job description

Who we are

Pronto AI is a global leader in commercializing autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, deploying Autonomous Haulage Systems (AHS) that automate operations in mines, quarries, and construction sites worldwide. While much of the industry remains in R&D, we deliver real, production-ready autonomy that is already operating in the field.

We are on a mission to make mining operations safer, smarter, and more efficient through cutting‑edge technology, and we are building toward becoming the world’s first profitable AV technology company.

What you’ll do

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 include the following:

• Design, implement, and tune control algorithms for autonomous vehicle systems
• Build Localization & State Estimation, Longitudinal Control, 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
• Travel note: This role requires periodic travel to customer sites (up to 15%)
• Schedule note: Some schedule flexibility may be required during deployments

What we’re looking for

• 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
• 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.

What else you need to know

This role is based in our San Francisco office location. As a company driven by innovation and continuous change, close collaboration is essential. We’re constantly reimagining our industry, creating new products, and refining our processes, and we do our best work together. That’s why all of our office‑based teams work onsite, five days a week.

The base salary range for this role is $182,000 - $230,000 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 Summary (USA Full‑Time Exempt Employees)

• 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

Benefits are subject to change at the company’s discretion.