Lead Vehicle Controls and Interface Engineer (Autonomous Vehicles)

TL;DR

Lead Vehicle Controls and Interface Engineer (Autonomous Vehicles): Developing and abstracting vehicle control interfaces to enable autonomous driving kit portability across diverse vehicle platforms with an accent on control algorithms for body, brake, steer, and throttle functions. Focus on advancing vehicle dynamics, ensuring rider comfort, and leading technical direction for current and future autonomous platforms.

Location: Must be based in Ann Arbor, MI

Salary: $150,000 - $180,000 USD

Company

hirify.global is an autonomous vehicle technology company transforming transit by deploying self-driving solutions to bridge public transit gaps and foster greener, more accessible cities.

What you will do

• Develop and maintain a platform-agnostic controls abstraction layer for ADK integration.
• Design and implement control algorithms for core vehicle functions including brake, steer, and throttle.
• Define and manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for seamless communication between vehicle and autonomy systems.
• Validate control algorithms through simulation, HIL testing, and physical prototype debugging.
• Establish vehicle dynamics targets and ensure performance verification throughout the development lifecycle.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineering staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Controls, Robotics, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in vehicle controls, embedded controls, or automotive engineering.
• Deep expertise in control systems, control theory, and vehicle dynamics.
• Proficiency in embedded software development using C/C++ for real-time systems.
• Working knowledge of automotive network topologies such as CAN-FD and automotive Ethernet.
• Experience with model-based design tools and simulation for control validation.

Nice to have

• Master’s or PhD in Controls, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or Robotics.
• Experience abstracting vehicle controls across multiple hardware platforms.
• Background in autonomous vehicle technologies including LIDAR, radar, and machine learning.
• Previous experience working in a startup environment.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare suite including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans.
• Rich retirement benefits with an immediately vested employer safe harbor match.
• Flexible vacation policy and paid company holidays.
• Generous paid parental leave with a phased return-to-work program.
• Total Wellness Program focused on overall employee wellbeing.