Navigation Lead

About Forterra At Forterra, we are unleashing autonomy at scale to transform the battlefield. Our mission is to build the foundational platforms that enable an intelligent ecosystem to coordinate, adapt, and execute with speed and precision even in the uncertainty and disruption of modern conflict. In an era marked by rapid technological change and evolving threats, we design for flexibility, survivability, and operational dominance. Forterra delivers weapons, sensors, and battlefield effects through integrated autonomous networks reaching operational areas faster, safer, and without placing human lives at risk. Our systems operate with distributed control, dynamic routing, and real‑time responsiveness, enabling sustained advantage across complex mission environments. About the role Forterra is seeking a Director of Localization to lead the design, development, and deployment of robust localization systems for autonomous vehicles operating in complex, real‑world environments. This role will own the technical direction and execution of GNSS/INS‑based localization and state estimation, while building and leading a high‑performing engineering team. The ideal candidate combines deep hands‑on expertise in state estimation and sensor fusion with proven experience leading engineers, setting technical vision, and delivering production‑ready autonomy software. What you’ll do Technical Leadership & Strategy Own the technical vision and roadmap for localization and state estimation across Forterra’s autonomous systems Architect and guide the development of GNSS/INS‑based localization systems using advanced state estimation and sensor fusion techniques Drive algorithmic choices for Kalman filtering, non‑linear optimization, sensor calibration, and error modeling Ensure localization solutions are robust, scalable, and performant across diverse vehicle platforms and operating environments Team Leadership & Execution Build, mentor, and lead a team of state estimation and localization engineers Provide technical guidance, code and design reviews, and career development for team members Set clear goals, priorities, and success metrics for the localization team Balance hands‑on technical contribution with delegation and coaching Cross‑Functional Collaboration Partner closely with autonomy, perception, hardware, and vehicle integration teams to define system requirements and interfaces Translate product and vehicle requirements into executable technical plans Collaborate with testing and operations teams to validate localization performance in simulation, data playback, and on‑vehicle testing Validation & Deployment Oversee testing and evaluation of localization software in simulation, log replay, and real‑world vehicle deployments Support on‑site vehicle testing as needed to debug and improve system performance Ensure localization systems meet reliability, safety, and performance targets for production use Minimum Qualifications B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Engineering or a related field 8+ years of relevant experience in state estimation, localization, or navigation systems 3+ years of experience leading or mentoring engineers Deep expertise in Kalman filtering (EKF, UKF, etc.) and real‑time state estimation techniques Strong background in non‑linear optimization (e.g., gradient descent, Levenberg‑Marquardt) Strong foundation in linear algebra and computational mathematics Hands‑on experience with GNSS/IMU/INS systems, sensor fusion, calibration, and error modeling Proficiency in C++ (some Python, MATLAB) Proven ability to design and deliver complex, production‑quality software systems Preferred Qualifications Experience developing localization and navigation systems for autonomous or semi‑autonomous vehicles Experience across multiple vehicle types (e.g., large trucks, off‑road vehicles, skid‑steers); aerospace also acceptable but ground vehicles preferred Familiarity with industry‑standard navigation software, GNSS hardware, and tooling Experience scaling algorithms from research to real‑world deployment Strong communication skills and comfort working across hardware and software teams Salary & Benefits US Salary Range: $180,000 – $300,000. The salary range is an estimate and the actual salary will vary based on factors such as experience, education, and expertise. Equity is included in most full‑time roles. Forterra offers competitive benefits: premium healthcare coverage 80% paid by company; life and disability insurance; generous holiday calendar; 20 days paid time off; 7 weeks paid parental leave; $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend; stocked beverage refrigerators; 401(k) with company match up to 4%. Clearance Eligibility This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances, please contact the hiring team. Equal Employment Opportunity Forterra is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on veteran or disability status, criminal history, or other protected characteristics. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. To see Forterra’s candidate data privacy policy, please visit the company website. #J-18808-Ljbffr NightDragon Acquisition Corp.