Staff, Software Engineer - Simulation Vehicle Modeling
About this role
To address the need for robust verification and validation infrastructure in automated freight operations, Torc Robotics seeks a Staff Software Engineer for Simulation Vehicle Modeling. The simulation team lays the groundwork for AV 3.0 driver-out development by serving as the vital link between modeling and autonomy consumers. This engineer will design and scale high-fidelity truck and vehicle dynamics models, establish statistical validation metrics for safety case claims, and build closed-loop simulation platforms that support large-scale reinforcement learning and system testing.
Candidates joining this team will architect scalable simulation frameworks across diverse vehicle types and sensor platforms while partnering closely with autonomy engineering groups. Success in this role requires deep technical expertise in physics-based vehicle modeling, strong C++ development skills in a Linux environment, and the ability to drive technical consensus across cross-functional teams. This position suits an advanced professional who enjoys independent judgment, mentoring peers, and tackling complex architectural challenges in autonomous driving.
What you will do
- Own and evolve the technical architecture for scalable vehicle modeling and simulation across vehicle types and sensor platforms.
- Develop high-fidelity truck and vehicle dynamics models covering longitudinal, lateral, and transient behaviors.
- Define statistical validation metrics and robustness testing frameworks to support formal safety case claims.
- Partner with autonomy engineering teams to capture system requirements and validate planning, controls, and V&V activities.
- Execute full software development lifecycle activities primarily using C++ within Linux and ROS/ROS2 tooling.
- Perform root cause analysis on complex issues found during simulation runs and hardware-in-the-loop testing.
- Mentor engineers across simulation and autonomy domains while driving code quality and testing rigor.
What you need
- Hold a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with 10+ years of relevant experience, a Master's Degree with 7+ years, or a PhD with 3+ years.
- Demonstrate deep proficiency in C++, Python for tooling, ROS/ROS2, CMake, and Linux environments.
- Possess a strong background in physics-based modeling of ground vehicles including tire models and powertrain dynamics.
- Understand AV autonomy stack architecture such as planning, controls, and system integration to collaborate effectively with engineering teams.
- Bring experience defining statistical validation metrics and robustness testing frameworks for safety case claims.
- Show a track record of driving technical consensus across simulation, controls, product, and safety teams.
Nice to have
- Experience as technical lead for a vehicle simulation sub-team
- Experience with high-fidelity truck and trailer or heavy-vehicle models
- Experience building or extending closed-loop autonomous vehicle simulation environments at scale
- Familiarity with scenario-based validation and sim-to-real correlation activities
- Familiarity with how learned models consume simulation and vehicle model outputs in autonomy V&V workflows
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package with a bonus component and stock options
- 100% paid medical, dental, and vision premiums for full-time employees
- 401K plan with a 6% employer match
- Flexibility in schedule and generous paid vacation available immediately after start date
- Company-wide holiday office closures
- AD+D and Life Insurance
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the remote work policy for this position?
This role offers remote work options within the US, as well as a location in Ann Arbor, MI.
What is the salary range for this role?
The US pay range for this job opening is $186,200 to $223,400 USD, with pay varying based on factors like knowledge, skills, and experience.
What primary tools and programming languages will I use?
You will execute full software development lifecycle activities primarily in C++, using Python for tooling, along with ROS and ROS2, CMake, and Linux.
What teams will I collaborate with regularly?
You will partner with autonomy engineering teams, OEM partners, simulation tool vendors, and safety teams to integrate and co-develop simulation capabilities.