Lead Robotics Embedded Controls Engineer

Job Summary:

As the Founding Lead Embedded Controls Engineer at 10xConstruction.ai, you will be a driving force in revolutionizing the construction industry through robotics. You will lead the design and integration of control systems for our cutting-edge AI-powered robots, combining off-the-shelf solutions with custom-designed hardware and firmware to achieve unparalleled precision and performance. This is a founding team role, offering the unique opportunity to not only build a groundbreaking product but also to shape the culture and direction of a rapidly growing company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Management:
  • Lead and mentor a team of embedded controls engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering a collaborative environment.
  • Manage project timelines, delegate tasks effectively, and ensure on-time delivery of project milestones.
  • Contribute to the growth and development of the embedded controls team.
• Control System Architecture:
  • Lead the architecture and design of robust and reliable control systems for our mobile manipulator robots.
  • Integrate a variety of components, including cobot arms, motors, sensors, actuators, and power tools, into a cohesive system.
  • Develop and implement control algorithms for precise manipulation and navigation in construction environments.
• Hardware Design & Development:
  • Design and develop custom hardware solutions, including PCBs and firmware, to interface with and control various robotic components.
  • Optimize hardware designs for performance, power efficiency, and reliability in challenging construction conditions.
  • Collaborate with the mechanical engineering team to ensure seamless integration of hardware and mechanical systems.
• Rapid Prototyping & Testing:
  • Champion a rapid prototyping approach, leveraging off-the-shelf modules, self-soldered PCBs, and readily available components to accelerate development.
  • Lead the prototyping and testing of control systems, ensuring functionality, safety, and compliance with industry standards.
  • Develop and implement automated testing procedures to streamline the development process.
  • Diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues.
• Firmware Development:
  • Take ownership of firmware development for custom hardware, ensuring seamless communication and control of robotic components.
  • Develop and optimize low-level code for real-time performance and efficient hardware interaction.
  • Closely integrate firmware with robot arm controllers for precise and coordinated movement.
• Collaboration & Integration:
  • Work closely with the software team to integrate the electromechanical system on ROS2 and contribute to ROS2 driver development.
  • Collaborate with the mechanical team to "hack" off-the-shelf power tools (drywall sanders, spray guns, etc.) and convert them into functional robotic end-of-arm tool attachments.
  • Collaborate with other teams (e.g., mechanical, perception) to ensure the successful deployment of robots in construction settings.
• Safety & Compliance:
  • Ensure adherence to all relevant electrical safety and compliance standards.
  • Implement safety features and protocols to mitigate risks in a construction environment.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Master's degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in the design and development of embedded control systems for robotic applications.
• Proven experience leading and managing engineering teams.
• Deep expertise in control theory, robotics, and embedded systems.
• Proficiency in PCB design software (Altium, Eagle), embedded programming (C/C++), and firmware development.
• Strong understanding of communication protocols (e.g., CAN, Ethernet) and real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Experience with industrial automation and PLC programming.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

Why Join Us:

• Gain experience in a dynamic startup environment at the forefront of robotics innovation.
• Contribute to the development of technology that will revolutionize the construction industry.
• Work alongside a talented and passionate team committed to making a real-world impact.
• Lead the development of cutting-edge control systems for AI-powered robots.
• Be a key member of the founding team, shaping not just the product but the company itself.
• Work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your contributions will have a direct impact.

Preferences:

• Candidates with a portfolio of successful embedded control system projects.
• Candidates with experience in the robotics or construction automation industries.