What to Expect

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. 

What You’ll Do
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 
What You’ll Bring
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

PALO ALTO, California

Full time