Platform Control Software Engineer

Forterra· Emerging Tech
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📍 Arlington, VA📍 Clarksburg, MDFULL TIME💰 USD 120K–185K

About this role

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Platform Control Software Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in control theory, as well as a passion for developing advanced control systems for autonomous vehicles. You will be responsible for working on the platform control software that translates motion planner trajectories to drive-by-wire commands.


What you'll do

  • Control Systems Development.
  • Develop control software modules for vehicle actuation systems. 
  • Implement control algorithms for throttle, brake, and steering to accurately follow planned trajectories. 
  • Interface and integrate with body control systems, including headlights and fifth-wheel lifts. 
  • Hands-On Contribution:  
  • Engage directly in coding, vehicle testing, and debugging. 
  • Stay actively involved in technical challenges.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Control Systems, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in control systems engineering. 
  • Experience in a fast-paced startup environment is highly preferred. 
  • Experience with real-world controls experience in automotive, aerospace, or related field is preferred 
  • Strong background in control theory and control systems design. 
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C++    
  • Experience with vehicle dynamics and actuation systems

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong product mindset with a focus on delivering customer value. 
  •     Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail. 
  •     Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. 
  •     Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.


US Salary Range
 $120,000—$185,000


 

The salary range for this role is an estimate and is based on a wide variety of compensation factors. The salary offered to candidates will vary based on a variety of factors including (but not limited to) relevant work experience, education, specialized training, critical expertise, training, and more. Equity in Forterra is included in most of our full-time, high-demand roles and is therefore considered part of Forterra’s overall compensation package. In addition to base salary and equity, Forterra offers competitive benefits for full-time employees including:

  • Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.  
  • Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.
  • Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.
  • Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.
  • A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption. 
  • A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.
  • Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires. 
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.

Your recruiter will be able to share more information about our salary and benefits offering during the hiring process.


CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here.   

Forterra is an equal-opportunity employer, providing and promoting equal employment opportunity in all personnel practices. Forterrans are unique, talented individuals who are united through a shared passion to deliver autonomous systems that enable national resilience and a robust supply chain.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran and disability status, and criminal history, in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Forterra is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

To see Forterra’s candidate data privacy policy, please visit Forterra Legal | Job Applicant Privacy Notice. 

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Platform Control Software Engineer role at Forterra?
The listed salary for this Platform Control Software Engineer position at Forterra is USD 120K–185K. This is an FULL TIME role.
Where is the Platform Control Software Engineer position at Forterra located?
This Platform Control Software Engineer role at Forterra is based in Arlington, VA, Clarksburg, MD. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Platform Control Software Engineer role at Forterra full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a FULL TIME position. It is posted as a Platform Control Software Engineer role in the Emerging Tech department at Forterra.
Which team or department does the Platform Control Software Engineer at Forterra belong to?
This Platform Control Software Engineer position is part of the Emerging Tech department at Forterra. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Platform Control Software Engineer position at Forterra?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to Forterra's official application portal hosted on rippling where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Platform Control Software Engineer job at Forterra posted?
This Platform Control Software Engineer position at Forterra was posted on Oct 4, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Platform Control Software Engineer
Forterra · 💰 USD 120K–185K
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