Principal Controls Engineer, Advanced Product Ventures

About the Role

This role sits at the centre of a multidisciplinary team developing the next generation of powered athlete products. The Principal Controls Engineer will partner closely with controls, firmware, hardware, sports science, and product teams to bring intelligent mechatronic systems to life. The position involves defining how powered athlete products sense, decide, and act in real time, from early concepts through commercialisation. The engineer will provide technical leadership, influence product direction, and collaborate across research and engineering functions to deliver breakthrough athlete experiences. Key Responsibilities

Develop and deploy real-time control algorithms that determine how and when assistance is delivered on resource-constrained embedded hardware. Apply advanced control techniques including Model Predictive Control (MPC), Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR), Kalman filtering, sensor fusion, data-driven control, and learning-based control to complex product challenges. Design systems that predict athlete intent and gait from noisy sensor inputs and translate those insights into precise, responsive motor behaviour. Partner closely with firmware, hardware, product, and sports science teams to validate solutions through laboratory, simulation, and on-body testing. Build custom simulation environments, data analysis pipelines, automation tools, and development workflows that accelerate controller development and product maturity. Advance embedded machine learning capabilities and edge-based intelligence to improve product adaptability and performance. Establish performance metrics, monitor system behaviour, identify opportunities for improvement, and drive enhancements across the product lifecycle. Required Experience & Qualifications

10+ years of experience with a Master’s degree, or 7+ years of experience with a PhD, in controls engineering, robotics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or a related field. Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Controls Engineering, or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training. Demonstrated expertise in Model Predictive Control (MPC), Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR), Kalman filtering, sensor fusion, embedded controls, and machine learning systems. Experience deploying real-time algorithms in C/C++, leading technical programs, and building commercial electromechanical products. Deep experience in real-time control systems, embedded software, machine intelligence, and human-in-the-loop product development. Strong track record of shipping complex electromechanical products. Judgment, technical leadership, and systems thinking required to solve challenging problems at the intersection of hardware, software, and human performance. Expertise in modern control methodologies with a passion for innovation. Comfortable developing algorithms, guiding technical architecture, building development tools, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Embrace emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence-assisted development, and continuously look for opportunities to accelerate learning, iteration, and impact. Motivated by creating products that feel seamless, intuitive, and transformative for athletes. Seasoned controls expert who thrives in ambiguity and is energized by transforming advanced concepts into commercial‑grade products. Workplace

Beaverton, Oregon (in-person required) The Application Process

Accommodations are available for the interview process, including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single‑location in‑person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed.

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