Robotics & Control Engineer

Job description

You want to help build Europe’s resilience? You want to protect people and critical infrastructure – ultimately saving the lives of thousands? You want to work at the frontier of high-performance autonomous systems? Join us at CDDS to bring next-generation control, guidance, and state-estimation algorithms into high-speed kinetic interceptor drones. CDDS (Counter-Drone Defense Systems) specializes in developing low-collateral kinetic interceptors designed to neutralize malicious drones. Our solutions are built for precision and safety, minimizing risk to surroundings while effectively countering unauthorized or threatening unmanned aerial systems. We work at the cutting edge of counter-drone technology, delivering reliable protection for critical assets and environments. Tasks Your Mission We are looking for an exceptional Robotics & Control Engineer to drive the control stack of our interceptor drone platform. You will architect and implement state-estimation and control algorithms that directly determine successful target interception, taking them from Python-based simulation to robust, deployable C++/Rust systems. You will work closely with perception, embedded, simulation, and hardware experts — ensuring your algorithms translate directly into field performance. Core Responsibilities Designing and validating low-latency guidance and control strategies in Python-based simulation environments before porting them to high-performance C++/Rust Developing multi-sensor fusion algorithms for state estimation, including uncertainty modelling and robust gating under latency, asynchronous updates, and drift Investigating MPC and reinforcement-learning-based strategies for trajectory generation and interception point control Modelling aerodynamic effects and motor dynamics Maintaining simulation pipelines (Docker, GPU-accelerated dev-containers) Adapting and extending the PX4 autopilot stack for custom interceptor behaviour Running HIL tests and profiling system performance Conducting real-world flight experiments, analysing data, and evaluating performance and failure modes Requirements We are looking for people who thrive on mathematical depth , rapid iteration, and hands-on flight testing. You take full ownership of your subsystem — from modelling to real-world validation. Required PhD or MSc in Robotics, Control Engineering, Computer Science or similar field with strong academic record (from ETH Zürich or equivalent) Strong analytical mindset with the ability to derive, evaluate, and validate models Deep understanding of classical & optimal control, Kalman filtering, state estimation, and linear algebra (rotations and transformations in SE(3)) Proficiency in Python and C++ Comfortable in fast-paced, high-ownership environments with long hours when the mission demands it Nice-to-Have ROS2, PX4, and real-time robotics software MPC, RL, trajectory optimization Computer vision and event cameras Fast-moving object interception / high-dynamics control Simulation frameworks like Gazebo or Isaac Sim Background in drone flight testing or competitive robotics Benefits Why CDDS Direct impact on mission-critical technology shaping Europe’s security landscape Fast-moving startup environment with high ownership Work with a highly technical, ambitious, and hands-on team Real-world testing, deployments, and customer demonstrations Attractive compensation Details Location: Close to Zurich Hardbrücke (Zurich City) Start date: ASAP Environment: Rapidly growing deep-tech startup, high-impact mission If your interested in the position please apply via this form. Before uploading your cover letter, please merge your last transcript and the cover letter into one pdf and upload it together as one file.