Senior Robotics and Controls Engineer

Oakland, CA
Full-time

First, the good news: The world now has over 1.7 terawatts of cumulative solar capacity and solar PV is the lowest-cost source of energy generation worldwide.

The challenge: The world must build 3 terawatts of new solar capacity every year for the next 25 years.

Planted is creating new technology to overhaul how the industry develops and builds solar power resources. And we need help. We're expanding our team of ambitious, curious, and hands-on engineers and operators. Come own large parts of product, company, or business development and help power the world with 100% clean energy.

About The Role

As a core part of the R+D team, you will develop control algorithms, integrate embedded systems, and implement real-time robotic software. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with a cross-functional engineering team with a highly talented group of engineers from varied backgrounds. You will own projects from ideation through implementation, ensuring our robotic systems operate efficiently and reliably in challenging field environments.

The salary range for this full-time position is $125,000 - $175,000 plus stock and benefits. Pay within the range is based on candidate experience, job-specific skills, education, and work location. The target experience for the position is 5-10 years.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement real-time control algorithms for robotic actuation and vehicle locomotion.

• Write software for real-time applications such for safety, vehicle control, and vehicle sequencing

• Assess new controllers, sensors, and actuators for integration into our hardware suite.

• Develop and refine robot calibration, system identification, and verification processes.

• Work with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to refine system architecture and requirements

• Contribute to the development of innovative features and improvements for our robotic systems. .

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of experience in robotics, embedded systems, or controls engineering.

• Strong C++ and Python programming for real-time control and hardware interfacing.

• Experience with embedded systems and CAN bus communication.

• Experience with ROS2 and ecosystem (Gazebo, tf2, etc)

• Hands-on experience with robot calibration, system integration, and troubleshooting.

• Knowledge of control algorithms, system identification, and nonlinear control.

• Experience with CANopen, J1939, and debugging tools 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with electrical schematics, power electronics, and hydraulic systems.

• Background in nonlinear controls, localization, sensor fusion, or industrial automation.

• Knowledge of Model Predictive Control (MPC), Kalman Filters, Sliding Mode Controllers

• Knowledge of real time operating systems

• Experience working with robotics in harsh environments (construction, ag-tech, industrial).

*A note on qualifications: Many people only apply for jobs if they believe they can perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and will consider equivalent combinations of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

PHYSICAL AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

• Mostly desk work using standard office equipment

• The position requires some travel for customer and business meetings and company-wide meetings

What We Offer

• 11 paid company holidays and flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Company-paid in-office lunches

• Stock options

• Medical, vision, dental, and other benefits

• Pre-tax commuter benefits

• 401(k)

• A chance to have an empowered, meaningful, and early role in climate

This will be a great fit if:

• You want to solve challenging problems

• You are biased toward action and focus on the vital work that drives the most impact

• You prioritize the physical and psychological safety of yourself and those around you

• You are humble, embrace change, and deliver and receive candid feedback

• You are optimistic about the future and can make tough decisions to help get there

• You have high expectations and coach, develop, and make time to help others

Planted Solar is an equal opportunity employer committed to growing inclusively, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, medical condition, age, or veteran status. However you identify, or whatever background you bring with you, please apply. We look forward to hearing from you.