Senior Robotics Controls Engineer

Senior Robotics Controls Engineer(Optimal Control – Precision Aiming & Stabilization)Location: Berlin (Onsite)About UsWe are a defense technology startup based in Berlin, building the next generation defense layer against aerial threats. Our team develops mission-critical systems that combine hardware, software, and sensing to operate reliably in complex real-world environments.As an early-stage company operating in stealth mode, we place strong emphasis on engineering rigor, mathematical precision, and high-performance system design.Role OverviewWe are seeking a Senior Robotics Controls Engineer (Regelungstechnik) with a strong focus on optimal and model-based control to design and implement the control architecture for our high-precision aiming and stabilization systems.You will take ownership of the control design for a:2-axis pan-tilt system2-axis fast steering mirrorThe system must achieve sub-milliradian precision under high acceleration and dynamic disturbances, enabling accurate target tracking and beam stabilization in real-world environments.This role emphasizes:Optimal control designConstrained real-time controlModel-based system identificationHigh-bandwidth disturbance rejectionYou will work closely with computer vision, mechanical, and optics engineers to transform tracking data into stable, deterministic, real-time actuation.This position requires onsite work and eligibility for German security clearance.Key ResponsibilitiesOptimal & Model-Based Control DesignDesign and implement optimal control strategies for precision aiming systems, including:LQR / LQGModel Predictive Control (MPC)Constrained optimal control approachesDevelop state-space models of electromechanical subsystemsDesign observers and estimators for high-accuracy state reconstructionBalance bandwidth, robustness, and actuator constraints under real-time requirementsHigh-Precision Stabilization & TrackingAchieve sub-milliradian pointing precision under: Vibration, High acceleration, External disturbancesDevelop advanced disturbance rejection strategiesDesign multi-loop control architectures for: 2-axis pan-tilt systems (stepper-driven), 2-axis fast steering mirrors (piezo-actuated)System Identification & ModelingPerform system identification from lab measurementsDevelop accurate plant models including structural dynamicsModel actuator dynamics, friction, and non-linearitiesValidate models against real-world test dataSimulation & Real-Time ImplementationDevelop and validate control systems using MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent toolsAnalyze stability margins, robustness, and constraint handlingImplement control algorithms on: Real-time Linux systems (Tegra, RT kernel), Embedded microcontrollers (STM32 or comparable platforms)Ensure deterministic timing and computational efficiencyCross-Disciplinary CollaborationIntegrate sensor-fusion–based feedback loops using tracking dataCollaborate with: Computer vision engineers (tracking integration), Mechanical engineers (structural dynamics), Optical engineers (beam stability constraints)Conduct lab validation and performance testing under operational conditionsRequired Qualifications6+ years of experience in advanced control systems engineering (Regelungstechnik)Strong background in optimal and model-based control, including: State-space control, LQR / LQG, Model Predictive Control, Observer designProven experience designing control systems for high-precision electromechanical systemsExperience with constrained, high-dynamic control environmentsStrong experience with modeling and simulation tools (MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent)Experience implementing real-time control on embedded systems and/or real-time LinuxStrong understanding of actuator dynamics (stepper motors, piezo actuators, servo systems)EU citizenship and eligibility for German security clearanceWillingness to work fully onsite in BerlinPreferred QualificationsExperience in defense fire control systems, aerospace GNC, or high-precision tracking platformsExperience with Kalman-based estimation integrated into control loopsExperience with MPC under real-time computational constraintsHands-on experience tuning servo drives or motor controllersExperience modeling structural vibration and flexible dynamicsBackground in beam-directing or high-energy systemsExperience working in safety-critical or defense environmentsWhat We OfferCompetitive salaryVSOP / equity participationCentral Berlin officeExtreme growth opportunity in a fast-scaling startupMonthly VoucherDeutschlandticketVacation PayWho You AreMathematically rigorous: You think in state-space, constraints, and cost functionsPrecision-driven: You care about stability margins, bandwidth, and deterministic behaviorSystems-oriented: You understand the coupling between mechanical dynamics, sensing, and actuationAnalytical and experimental: You validate models with data, not assumptionsDisciplined: You document models, assumptions, and verification proceduresMission-aligned: You understand the responsibility of building high-performance defense systems