Lead Ground Autonomy Engineer

About AZAKAZAK is transforming how the world moves. We are a startup in defense technology, empowering people with everything they need to move, achieve, and do more with the world's most efficient, powerful, and structurally adaptable electric mobility systems.AZAK’s patented technology places all of the drive components needed to operate an electric vehicle inside and below the center point of the wheel. This simple but groundbreaking mechanical innovation helps us create vehicles with the lowest center of gravity, that are more energy efficient, and that have modular properties that provide optionality, space savings, and freedom of frame design.About the Role We are seeking an incredibly driven builder to serve as our Lead Ground Autonomy Engineer. AZAK is focused on developing and supporting lightweight autonomy kits for unmanned ground vehicles operating in complex, unstructured environments. This role requires non-traditional thinking; given the structural adaptability of AZAK systems, we are moving away from the complex, sensor-heavy autonomy kits utilized by legacy competitors.This role spans the full autonomy stack—from control systems and motion planning to streamlined perception integration and mission execution. You won't just write code; you will own systems that move real machines safely and confidently across real terrain under real operational constraints. We want a technical leader who embodies extreme ownership, sets engineering priorities, and is deeply committed to the AZAK mission to transform how the world moves.ResponsibilitiesEnd-to-End Autonomy Ownership: Lead the technical execution of the on-vehicle autonomy team, owning systems deployed to operational platforms and delivering reliable, mission-ready software.Control & Motion Planning: Design and implement control algorithms (e.g., route following, trajectory generation, vehicle dynamics modeling) and develop motion planning strategies tailored to diverse and dynamic terrains.Non-Traditional Architecture & Perception: Build and extend modular autonomy stacks (e.g., ROS2-based). Exhibit Mastery in the Minimal by developing highly efficient perception pipelines that favor streamlined, lightweight autonomy solutions. Field Testing & Debugging: Evaluate autonomy performance by debugging logs, diagnosing failures in real-world environments, and developing performance metrics for deployed systems.Cross-Functional Leadership: Guide architecture decisions, mentor teammates, and partner fiercely with embedded systems, hardware, and mission software teams to ensure autonomy capabilities are delivered with speed and rigor.Customer & Operator Engagement: Translate operational ground mission needs into functional autonomy capabilities, balancing tactical field constraints with technical feasibility.RequirementsEngineering experience with a proven track record of building, integrating, and fielding robotics or autonomous ground systems.Deep expertise in autonomy software, motion planning, controls, vehicle behavior, and real-world system integration.Ability to think non-traditionally and optimize systems for lightweight, modular applications.Exceptional comfort with ambiguity; ability to rapidly adapt to shifting priorities and build structure where none currently exists.Unrelenting work ethic and an intense attention to detail, capable of moving seamlessly between system design, code review, and physical deployment.Highly dynamic travel expectations: You must be willing to travel frequently and on short notice to support live testing, operational demonstrations, and tactical integration events.Must be based in Denver, CO.Compensation & BenefitsCash compensation is targeted at $135,000 - $185,000 + performance bonus and equity (commensurate with experience)Note: This is a dual-track posting. Offers within this range are strictly commensurate with experience, calibrated for either a Senior Ground Autonomy Engineer or a Lead Ground Autonomy Engineer.100% company-paid premiums for medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents.Paid time off.Fully subsidized supplemental benefits for unexpected medical events.Competitive parental leave.On-site meals three days a week.AZAK is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or other applicable legally protected characteristic.