Senior Robotics Controls Engineer

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

7+ 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 $176,000 - $240,000 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. Pronto accepts applications on an ongoing basis.

Ready to join us as we serve those who serve others?

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