Control Software Engineer

Washington

Job TypeDirect Hire

Compensation$100000 - $200000 / yr

Confidential Opportunity

Control Software Engineer

A Confidential Employer in Washington, DC is seeking a Control Software Engineer to own platform control software that translates motion plans into drive-by-wire commands. This on-site role demands strong C++/Python skills and a passion for autonomous vehicle systems. You will join a rapidly growing team where your work directly shapes the future of mobility.

Role Snapshot

CompanyConfidential Employer

LocationWashington, Washington DC, USA

IndustryAutomotive / Motor Vehicles

Compensation$100,000 - $200,000 per year

Employment TypeFull Time/Direct Hire

Remote StatusNo Remote

Total Openings2

Work Experience2 - 10 years

ZIP33458

Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to write the software that physically moves an autonomous vehicle. As the Control Software Engineer, you will take motion planner outputs and turn them into precise steering, throttle, and braking commands—the code that makes the car actually drive itself. If you want your fingerprints on the most tangible part of an AV stack, this is it.

You will own the entire drive-by-wire control pipeline. Your day-to-day involves designing and implementing real-time control algorithms, tuning PID and model-based controllers, and working directly with vehicle actuators and sensors. You will collaborate with hardware engineers to characterize steering racks and brake systems, then translate your models into production C++ that runs on the vehicle. Every day you will solve problems that bridge the gap between high-level planning and the physics of the road.

The engineer who thrives here brings a strong foundation in classical and modern control theory, combined with practical coding ability in C++ and Python. You are someone who is as comfortable in Simulink as you are in a terminal, debugging real-time Linux systems. You have at least two years of experience writing control software that has shipped, ideally in automotive or aerospace. You take ownership, enjoy on-site work where you can touch the hardware, and want to see your code steer a car around a test track.

If you are ready to move to Washington, DC and join a well-funded, fast-moving company that is putting its technology on real roads, this is your moment. You will be rewarded with a base salary up to $200,000, equity, and full relocation support. Even more importantly, you will work on a system that will change transportation, and you will do it alongside engineers who share your passion. Apply today and let’s talk about where you can take your control software career.

Non-Negotiables

You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident due to project requirements
This is an on-site position in Washington, DC, with no remote option available
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, robotics, or a related field is required
At least two years of professional experience in controls systems software engineering is mandatory
Proficiency in C/C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink is essential for this role
Deep understanding of control theory and a proven track record of designing and implementing control algorithms are non-negotiable
You must have hands-on experience developing real-time or embedded control systems

What's In It For You

Competitive annual salary ranging from $100,000 to $200,000 based on experience
Restricted stock units give you a tangible stake in the company’s future success
Full relocation assistance is provided to help you move to the Washington, DC area
Join a rapidly growing company at the forefront of the autonomous vehicle revolution
Collaborate with a talented, on-site engineering team that thrives on solving hard problems
Direct access to hardware, test vehicles, and a culture that values hands-on innovation
Make a visible impact on drive-by-wire technology that will define the next generation of transportation

Responsibilities

Own the platform control software lifecycle, from architecture and algorithm design to deployment and validation
Develop and optimize motion planning, path following, and vehicle actuation algorithms for autonomous drive-by-wire systems
Implement control algorithms in C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink on real-time embedded platforms
Collaborate closely with hardware, sensor, and perception teams to ensure seamless system integration
Tune and debug steering, braking, and acceleration controllers to meet safety and performance targets
Document design decisions, test plans, and performance metrics to support certification and knowledge sharing
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to system architecture discussions

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with AI and machine learning techniques applied to control systems is a strong plus
Real-world controls experience in the automotive or aerospace industries will set you apart
Knowledge of vehicle dynamics and actuator control is highly valued
Experience with path planning algorithms and drive-by-wire architectures is advantageous
A master’s degree or higher in a related field is preferred but not required
Familiarity with safety-critical software development practices (ISO 26262, DO-178C) is a bonus

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Control Software Engineer

Role Snapshot

Opportunity

Non-Negotiables

What's In It For You

Responsibilities

Preferred Qualifications

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