Motion Control Engineer

Pickle Robot Company • Boston, MA

93d

About The Position

Pickle is on the hunt for a dynamic and driven Motion Control Engineer for our Firmware team to help us revolutionize the future of warehouse automation. This role focuses on designing, developing, and testing algorithms and firmware for electric motor control systems to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability for our mobility platform and industrial multisegmented arm. Responsibilities include developing control algorithms, implementing software on microcontrollers and off-the-shelf controllers, performing lab and field testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to push the boundaries of robotic motion control. Your contributions will directly impact the performance and capabilities of Pickle's revolutionary material-handling robots. A strong understanding of both complex low-level firmware design principles and motor control theory will be critical to success in this role.

Requirements

• 5+ years of professional experience in firmware development with demonstrated excellence in processing the physical inputs and outputs of motor control systems.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ and Python is crucial for embedded firmware development and motor control implementation.
• Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), ROS & ROS2, and embedded development tools.
• A high level of proficiency in developing with Python is strongly desired, including demonstrable expertise using various Python tools and object-oriented programming.
• Understanding of motor control theory, including velocity profiles, torque control, and motion planning.
• Strong action-biased analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve complex motor control issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and work closely with vendor support engineers.
• Detail-oriented, problem-solver, and a passion for robotics and innovation.
• A Bachelor or Master degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement motor control algorithms (e.g., using velocity and torque curves) and firmware for off-the-shelf controllers using C/C++/Python code.
• Characterize various motor controllers and drive systems to maximize the performance of the interface in the vendor's particular programming language.
• Collaborate with hardware & software teams to define interfaces and ensure seamless integration of motor control components.
• Design and implement robust peripheral APIs into Pickle's platform in Python.
• Develop comprehensive test harnesses and debugging tools to verify the reliability and safety of motor control firmware.
• Analyze and resolve issues within motor control systems to improve performance and reliability through systematic troubleshooting.
• Work closely with vendor support engineers to push motor controllers to the very edge of their capabilities.

Benefits

• Health, dental, & vision insurance
• Unlimited vacation, along with all federal and state holidays
• 401K contributions of 5% your salary
• Travel supplies and other items to make your working life more fun, comfortable, and productive

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees