Robotics Controls Engineer
Pronto · San Francisco Bay Area
📍 San Francisco, CA💰 $182,000 - $230,000via greenhousePosted 2026-06-16
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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
2+ 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 $182,000 - $230,000 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?
#LI-Onsite
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