Senior Controls Engineer, State Estimation

About the role

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the development of real‑time state estimation algorithms for electric vehicles. You will work closely with systems and integration engineers in a fast‑paced environment, turning complex vehicle dynamics concepts into reliable software solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize real‑time state estimation algorithms on target hardware.
• Define feature requirements together with systems engineers.
• Collaborate with integration engineers to test, validate, and debug algorithms before deployment.
• Contribute to automated testing frameworks for Unit, SIL, HIL, and cloud‑based validation.
• Develop and maintain simulation models to verify estimation solutions.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in physics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of state‑estimation techniques such as Kalman filters and observers.
• Experience with classical dynamics, vehicle modeling, and simulation.
• Knowledge of ground‑vehicle dynamics, tire dynamics, and understeer/oversteer concepts.
• Hands‑on engineering experience through internships, research, or personal projects.

Required skills

• C/C++ programming
• Python programming
• Kalman filters and observer design
• Classical dynamics and vehicle modeling
• Simulation development
• Real‑time embedded systems
• Sensor fusion
• Automotive application development

What we offer

• Competitive base salary with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.
• Equity participation through Restricted Stock Units (RSUs).
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and wellbeing benefits.
• Opportunities to work on cutting‑edge electric‑vehicle technology within a joint‑venture of industry leaders.