Platform Control Lead

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Platform Control Lead to lead a team of software/control engineers. 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 owning the platform control software that translates motion planner trajectories to drive-by-wire commands. 

What you'll do

Team Leadership:  

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of controls engineers.  

• Foster a collaborative and outcome-focused team environment.  

• Oversee project planning, execution, and delivery within tight timelines.  

Control Systems Development: 

• Architect and develop control software modules for vehicle actuation systems. 

• Implement control algorithms for throttle, brake, and steering to accurately follow planned trajectories.  

• Interface and integrate with body control systems, including headlights and fifth-wheel lifts.    

Product Mindset:  

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align engineering efforts with customer value. 

• Contribute to product strategy with a focus on maximizing customer satisfaction and usability.  

Hands-On Contribution: 

• Engage directly in coding, testing, and debugging.  

• Lead by example by staying actively involved in 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.  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Control Systems, or a related field.  

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in control systems engineering. 

• Proven leadership experience managing teams of 3+ engineers. 

• 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. 

• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a fast-paced startup environment is highly preferred.  
• 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.  
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. 

US Salary Range
 $175,000—$250,000

Location

On-Site in Clarksburg, MD

Travel up to 25% may be required
 

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 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.