Trajectory Planning Engineer — Autonomy & MPC

Motional AD Inc.; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 142,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Motional AD Inc. in Boston is seeking an engineer to develop trajectory optimization algorithms and robust software for autonomous driving. You will integrate MPC-based planning with the motion planning architecture and contribute to production-grade vehicle control software.

The role requires 0-3+ years of C++ experience, strong fundamentals in robotics and optimization, and collaboration with ML and vehicle control teams. A bachelor’s or higher in robotics/computer science is preferred.

Qualifications

• 0-3+ years of C++ software development (educational experience counts)
• Experience with Model Predictive Control (MPC) and motion planning
• Understanding of numerical optimization algorithms
• Experience with optimization solvers (IPOPT, Gurobi)
• Past experience leading features from problem formulation to implementation
• Knowledge of Python is a bonus
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills

Responsibilities

• Develop state-of-the-art trajectory optimization algorithms and integrate with motion planning architecture
• Design and build robust, scalable software enabling real on-road impact
• Provide high-quality code and design reviews (C++)
• Leverage testing, simulation, and CI for rapid development cycles
• Explain trade-offs and complex concepts to peers and leadership to drive decisions
• Collaborate with ML decision/behavior planning and vehicle control teams
• Mentor junior team members to foster product-focused engineering and development

Skills

C++ software development

Motion planning

Optimization concepts

Python (bonus)

Education

Bachelors, Masters, or PhD in Robotics/CS/CE/EE

Tools

IPOPT

Gurobi

Job description

Motional AD Inc. in Boston is seeking an engineer to develop trajectory optimization algorithms and robust software for autonomous driving. You will integrate MPC-based planning with the motion planning architecture and contribute to production-grade vehicle control software.

The role requires 0-3+ years of C++ experience, strong fundamentals in robotics and optimization, and collaboration with ML and vehicle control teams. A bachelor’s or higher in robotics/computer science is preferred.