Tesla

Vehicle Dynamics Controls Engineer, Vehicle Controls

Tesla, Palo Alto, CA, United States

The Tesla Vehicle Motion Controls team works on design and implementation of control algorithms and software that delivers the world-class vehicle dynamics attributes Tesla vehicles are known for. The control algorithms at Tesla are strongly physics oriented, so the role requires an individual that can apply first-principles analysis and advanced control techniques for the design and implementation of novel, industry-leading vehicle motion control systems (specifically, controlling brake, suspension, steering, aero, and powertrain systems). This role will also require working cross-functionally with various groups including Chassis Hardware, Vehicle Dynamics and Modeling, Firmware, Systems Integration, and Self Driving teams. Some well-known systems our team has developed and shipped include an industry-first Steer-by-Wire and Rear-Steer system on the Cybertruck, Track Mode and torque vectoring for the Plaid Model S, Tesla's in-house stability control (VDC), multi-motor traction control, adaptive suspension damping, trailer sway control, Self Driving actuator controls, etc.

Responsibilities

Develop control-oriented models of chassis systems for analysis and estimation
Evaluate novel subsystems related to vehicle motion to inform product architecture decisions
Work with Vehicle Dynamics Engineers to ensure sensing, actuation, and algorithm designs can deliver the desired vehicle dynamics attributes
Develop and implement control algorithms to maximize system capability and flexibility
Develop and implement estimation and monitoring algorithms to maximize system safety and reliability
Work with Firmware/Integration Engineers to test, debug, and calibrate the algorithms in simulation and in car
Ensure stability and performance of the algorithms using software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tools, in the vehicle at proving grounds and in the customer fleet
Advance the state-of-the-art in vehicle motion control technology deployed in Tesla vehicles

Requirements

Excellent background in first principles linear systems analysis, state-estimation, and control design
Excellent fundamental understanding of vehicle dynamics, specifically low and medium fidelity models to be used within a control algorithm
Demonstrated ability to ground-up design, analyze, implement, test, and debug control systems in real-world applications
Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally, work hands-on, and execute on open-ended projects in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment
Basic understanding of the physics of electric drivetrains, and chassis actuators like brakes, steering, suspensions, etc.
Good proficiency with engineering development tools like Matlab/Simulink/Python
Basic proficiency with software development in C/C++
Real world experience with vehicle dynamics performance characteristics, preferred
Expertise in advanced control and estimation techniques, and optimal control, preferred
Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or equivalent in experience and evidence of exceptional ability

Compensation and Benefits
Benefits

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical plan options with $0 payroll deduction
Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
Company Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Aetna medical plan with HSA
Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
Company paid Basic Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance
Employee Assistance Program
Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid Holidays
Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs
Tesla Babies program
Commuter benefits
Employee discounts and perks program