Embedded Actuation Engineer

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.

We are looking for an experienced Embedded Actuation Engineer on Systems Integration & Test to develop, implement and tune control algorithms for the robot actuators. This role will work closely with cross‑functional teams to ensure the delivery of robust, high‑performance actuation solutions for our humanoid.

• Architect signal routing and processing of actuator data in our real‑time stack
• Manage actuator parameter storage, loading, and retrieval
• Implement high performance actuation algorithms, in particular for closed loop torque control
• Implement signal injection algorithms for system identification purposes
• Implement failure fallback strategies
• Implement real‑time observers to enhance diagnostics and serve as alternative feedback for fallback strategies.
• Implement post‑processing diagnostics for detecting actuator failures and improving the pace of failure analysis
• Acquire in‑depth cross‑disciplinary knowledge of actuation subsystems to drive ongoing technology development.
• Conduct testing for algorithm validation and tuning in collaboration with test engineers, and generate high‑quality reports to inform and influence engineering decisions.

• 5+ years of hands‑on experience developing robust C++ and Python code for embedded systems for high‑performance motion control.
• Proven expertise in designing control architectures, control synthesis and tuning, system identification, and feedback linearization.
• Multidisciplinary knowledge spanning controls engineering, mechanical dynamics and data processing
• Exceptional communication and planning skills, with an ability to document and present findings to technical teams effectively.
• Demonstrated experience in the integration and deployment of new, custom mechatronic systems for real‑world applications.
• Resilient and effective in fast‑paced, challenging environments.
• Competency in hands‑on work within a lab setting, alongside strong engineering analysis capabilities.
• Passionate about delivering a rock‑solid actuation system
• MS degree in science or engineering

• Prior experience working in robotics
• Prior experience working with humanoids
• Numerical modeling expertise

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is between $120,000 - $225,000 annually.