Platform Control Lead

About Forterra Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. Amongst some of the earliest innovators in the field of driverless technology, Forterra is focused on building systems that protect front-line soldiers and enable civilian workers in our industrial base. Forterra is the go-to provider of ground autonomy solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, which harnesses the technology for asymmetric warfare in critical conditions. About the role We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Platform Controls Engineering Team 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 Technical Skillset - Strong background in control theory and control systems design with proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink. Experience with vehicle dynamics and actuation systems. Soft Skills - Strong product mindset with a focus on delivering customer value. Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment. Mission-First Mindset - We put the needs of the mission and our customers first and understand that the US and its allies have no preordained right to victory in any future conflict. Ownership Mentality - We’re looking for owners; those who have a natural bias to assume responsibility, a healthy dose of skepticism, and contribute to a culture of performance. Technical Aptitude and Intellectual Curiosity - We are first and foremost a technology company, working at the leading edge of capabilities like machine learning, autonomy, distributed networking, and multi-modal sensor fusion. Structured Thinker and Problem Solver - Leading technical programs requires clear communication and well-thought-out plans. A solution-driven approach, the ability to distill complexity into its essential, digestible components, and the ability to supervise execution are critical to ensure mission success. 360 Degree Leader - We are a start-up organization that is dynamic and evolving. We expect you to be self-aware enough to recognize your position of unstated leadership within the company. You should have a demonstrated ability to lead and influence people through both formal and informal constructs and in situations where there is lack of clarity across teams. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with AI and machine learning techniques for control systems.  Experience with real-world controls experience in automotive, aerospace, or a related field. Experience in a fast-paced startup environment.  Education & Experience Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, 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. Experience in a fast-paced startup environment is highly preferred. Experience with real-world controls experience in automotive, aerospace, or related field is preferred. Travel Up to 25% Location Clarksburg, MD - In Office   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, Legal & ID protection 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.