Senior Motion Planning Engineer – Trajectory Optimization

Torc Robotics

Senior Motion Planning Engineer developing motion planning algorithms for autonomous trucks. Collaborating across functions to ensure safety and reliability in autonomous systems.

Posted 7/16/2026full-timeAnn Arbor • Missouri, Texas, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $160,800 - $193,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in motion planning algorithms, including trajectory generation and optimization, while developing production-quality software in modern C++ within Linux environments. Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics and kinematics, along with experience in collaborative, cross-functional engineering teams.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Modern C++ DevelopmentMotion Planning AlgorithmsTrajectory OptimizationVehicle DynamicsRobotics Algorithms

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Motion PlanningTrajectory GenerationBehavior PlanningConvex OptimizationGraph Search TechniquesSampling-Based PlanningSoftware Development LifecycleNumerical OptimizationLinear AlgebraSystem Design Principles

Soft Skills

Problem-SolvingCommunicationCollaborationMentoringTechnical Guidance

Tools & Technologies

Linux EnvironmentSoftware-in-the-Loop (SiL)Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL)Vehicle-in-the-Loop (ViL)Simulation Tools

Industry Keywords

Autonomous VehiclesADASReal-Time Software SystemsVehicle IntegrationSafety Standards

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Linux

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design, develop, and optimize motion planning algorithms including trajectory generation, trajectory selection, behavior planning, and optimization-based planning approaches for autonomous trucks.
Develop planning solutions leveraging techniques such as graph search, sampling-based planning, optimization-based planning, spline/B-spline trajectories, convex optimization, and Frenet-frame approaches.
Incorporate vehicle kinematic and dynamic constraints into planning systems to ensure safe, feasible, and comfortable vehicle behavior.
Develop production-quality software using modern C++ within a Linux environment while adhering to quality, safety, testing, and deployment best practices.
Participate in software architecture discussions and contribute to technical designs that support scalable and maintainable autonomy systems.
Develop and execute validation strategies across Software-in-the-Loop (SiL), Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL), and Vehicle-in-the-Loop (ViL) environments.
Collaborate closely with Safety, Controls, Perception, Validation, and Simulation teams to develop safe and reliable autonomous driving behaviors.
Investigate and debug vehicle behavior by reproducing issues in simulation, analyzing system performance, and implementing software improvements.
Support vehicle integration, deployment activities, and post-deployment investigations to ensure reliable autonomy performance.
Participate in technical design reviews, code reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives across the Behaviors organization.
Mentor junior engineers through collaboration, technical guidance, and knowledge sharing.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field with 5+ years of industry experience; OR Master's degree with 3+ years of experience; OR PhD with 1+ years of experience.
Strong proficiency in modern C++ development within Linux-based environments.
Experience developing robotics, autonomous vehicle, ADAS, or other complex real-time software systems.
Strong experience developing motion planning, trajectory generation, trajectory optimization, behavior planning, or decision-making systems for robotics or autonomous systems.
Solid understanding of vehicle dynamics, vehicle kinematics, trajectory feasibility, and planning system architecture.
Strong foundation in linear algebra, numerical optimization, geometry, and robotics algorithms.
Strong understanding of software engineering fundamentals, system design principles, and scalable development practices.
Experience working across the full software development lifecycle, from design and implementation through validation, deployment, and operational support.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug complex system-level issues.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills within cross-functional engineering teams.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a highly collaborative environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

A competitive compensation package that includes 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