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Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer

Be one of the Bedo 100


Albedo is revolutionizing the space industry by building technology to commercialize Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO). Our first satellite, Clarity-1, is built upon our Precision bus, our VLEO-optimized platform designed specifically to thrive where other satellites cannot. With the successful launch of Clarity-1, we've proven our ability to deliver the highest resolution visible (10cm) and thermal (2m) imagery available commercially from space—a resolution previously possible only with aircraft and drones, but now available globally and on-demand.


Through the next couple of years, our focuses will be scaling production of our Precision bus to support the growing Clarity constellation and serving our customers the highest-resolution data. As part of the first 100 employees at Albedo, you will have a direct impact on on the above goals, whether that’s working directly on hardware to enhance our performance in VLEO, optimizing the pointing algorithms of our agile satellite, or delivering imagery to reduce wildfire risk, monitor carbon emissions from industrial power plants, or inform decision-makers on national security matters.


How We Operate: Albedo has developed a novel approach to Very Low Earth Orbit, both in space and with our business model. We are intentionally doing things differently by taking (calculated) risks, trying new things, and moving with speed. In age where AI presents extraordinary potential, we’ve adopted an AI-first mentality to create leverage for ourselves and customers. Like our satellites, we intentionally operate in a space that most avoid because its hard — but the excitement and things we have and will achieve make it worth it.


Who We're Looking For: As we scale our VLEO platform and expand our constellation, we need innovative thinkers who thrive in fast-paced environments and are passionate about pushing technological boundaries. You'll be joining a team that's already proven it can achieve the impossible with the successful deployment of Clarity-1. If you're excited to tackle top-tier technical challenges, apply cutting-edge AI developments, and advance the state-of-the-art in VLEO technology, you'll find yourself part of a mission that's transforming how humanity sees and understands our planet—and eventually, other worlds.


If you can feel the excitement running through your veins, apply to be one of the Bedo 100.


You are a software engineer with a deep understanding of kinematics, optimization, and control and want to put your knowledge to practice by creating robust code for the exquisite Albedo imaging satellite constellation. 

You will develop, test, and maintain software for optimization of spacecraft mission operations, including steering laws, mission planning optimization, constrained optimization, and optimal trajectory modeling during imaging events. 


Your Ideal Skills and Experience:
  • Experience with optimization-based solutions for guidance, navigation, and control 
  • Familiar with guidance, navigation, and control systems for spacecraft or aircraft (or similar) 
  • Familiar with quaternion kinematics 
  • Experience with Control Moment Gyro systems, including the principles of CMG steering and control laws 
  • Ability to develop robust, modular, maintainable, and testable code in  modern languages (Python, C++, Julia, etc) either manually or via auto-coding tools 
  • Experienced in *one or more* of the following: Advanced techniques for accurate short-term orbit prediction and extrapolation, including propagation, fitting/splining, and smoothing 
  • Optimal motion/trajectory planning for autonomous systems 
  • Software framework for flight control: schedulers, hardware drivers, sensor or actuator processing, fault detection, and state machines for mode control 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the tools and processes used in developing software for real-time, deterministic, embedded control systems 
  • Experience in maintaining and troubleshooting robotic systems, including mechanical, electrical, and software components


Desirable Skills or Experience:
  • Experience with pointing architecture or algorithms used on a scanning imaging satellite 
  • Experience with tuning feed-back and feed-ahead control algorithms via Bode, Nichols, Quantitative-feedback Theory (QFT), root locus, or phase-plane or related techniques 
  • Ability to design and implement FIR, discrete-sample-time filters 
  • Familiar with optimal control, MIMO system analysis and state space synthesis techniques 
  • Familiar with advanced distribution laws or inverse kinematics models 


Compensation and Benefits:
  • Employee friendly equity compensation
  • Asynchronous culture with flexible working hours
  • 4% direct matching 401k
  • Insurance: Medical, Vision, Dental, Mental Health
  • Parental leave and childcare coverage
  • Relocation bonus for moving to our Denver, CO HQ
  • Flexible vacation from day one
  • 10 company holidays and unlimited sick days
  • $100 monthly wellness benefit
  • Team retreats to build relationships in-person


$176,329 - $183,627 a year
Salary range aligns with the company's compensation structure, which compensates at market rates of 50th percentile salary and 75th percentile equity. The company uses market data provided by Pave to determine percentiles. The final compensation package is subject to change if the candidate's experience and company need drive a different job level than originally slated for the position.

Albedo does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to Albedo employees. Albedo is not responsible for any fees or overhead related to unsolicited resumes.


Additional Requirements: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. All persons hired will be required to be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled: Albedo is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Know Your Rights || Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision


Relocation: Relocation for this position is available


US CITIZENSHIP IS REQUIRED


#LI-Onsite

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$176329K
$183627K

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What You Should Know About Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer, Albedo

Join Albedo as a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer in Denver, CO, and be part of a pioneering team that's revolutionizing the space industry. At Albedo, we’re on an exciting mission to commercialize Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) technology, starting with our groundbreaking satellite, Clarity-1. This satellite, built on our Precision bus platform, is designed to deliver unparalleled imaging capabilities, achieving resolutions previously only possible with aircraft. As one of the first 100 employees, your contributions will have a direct impact on scaling our VLEO production and enhancing our capabilities. In this role, you’ll use your expertise in kinematics, optimization, and control to develop and maintain software that optimizes spacecraft mission operations—from steering laws to trajectory modeling during imaging events. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology and want to work in a fast-paced environment that embraces new ideas, then this is the place for you. You will work alongside innovative thinkers, applying cutting-edge AI developments and tackling some of the toughest technical challenges. If the prospect of developing robust, maintainable code for our imaging satellite excites you, Albedo could be the perfect fit. We're looking for someone who thrives under pressure, is experienced in optimization-based solutions, and has a deep understanding of spacecraft systems. Excitement and passion are at the core of what we do here at Albedo, so if you’re ready to make your mark in the aerospace industry, we encourage you to apply and be part of this transformative journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer Role at Albedo
What responsibilities does a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer at Albedo have?

As a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer at Albedo, you'll be at the forefront of developing and optimizing software solutions for our VLEO satellite missions. Your primary responsibilities will include creating algorithms for guidance, navigation, and control, enhancing performance in Very Low Earth Orbit, and ensuring the reliable function of our imaging systems during various mission stages. You will also be involved in optimizing trajectory planning and maintaining the overall software integrity of our satellite operations.

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What qualifications are needed to become a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer at Albedo?

To qualify for the Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer position at Albedo, candidates should have a strong background in software engineering with a focus on kinematics and control systems. Experience with optimization-based solutions for spacecraft or aircraft is essential, along with proficiency in programming languages like Python or C++. Familiarity with guidance, navigation, and control systems is also a key requirement. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate experience with control moment gyros and complex problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments.

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What does the team culture look like at Albedo for Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineers?

The culture at Albedo for Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineers emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and a passion for tackling challenging problems. As part of a small but dynamic team, you'll have the opportunity to contribute directly to projects that can reshape the industry. We foster an asynchronous work culture that allows for flexibility and work-life balance while encouraging team members to take calculated risks and share their ideas. Every voice matters here, making it an exciting environment for those passionate about technology and space.

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What kind of projects can a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer expect to work on at Albedo?

At Albedo, a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer can look forward to working on innovative projects that involve the development and optimization of the satellite’s performance in VLEO. This includes designing algorithms for effective trajectory planning, optimizing the satellite's imaging capabilities, and integrating AI technologies to enhance our operational efficiency. Projects may also involve real-time control system development and contributing to our initiatives aimed at monitoring environmental changes, such as wildfire risks and industrial emissions.

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What benefits does Albedo offer to Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineers?

Albedo offers a comprehensive benefits package for Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineers, including competitive salary in the range of $176,329 to $183,627, equity compensation, flexible working hours, and a generous vacation policy. Additional perks include health insurance covering medical, dental, and mental health needs, a relocation bonus for those moving to Denver, and a wellness benefit to support your well-being. We truly value our employees and strive to create a supportive atmosphere that promotes both professional and personal growth.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer
Can you describe your experience with guidance, navigation, and control systems for spacecraft?

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you utilized guidance, navigation, and control systems. Detail the techniques you used and how they contributed to project success, emphasizing any innovative solutions you implemented. Highlight your familiarity with spacecraft dynamics and any relevant software or programming languages that helped you achieve optimal results.

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What optimization techniques have you applied in past projects?

For this question, discuss various optimization methods you've employed, such as constrained optimization, trajectory planning, or feedback control. Provide examples of how these techniques improved project outcomes, showcasing your analytical skills. Mention specific tools or programming languages used during this process to add context to your experience.

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How do you approach developing robust and maintainable code?

In your response, emphasize the importance of writing clean, modular code that's easy to read and maintain. Discuss methodologies you adopt, such as code reviews, testing, and documentation. Share experiences where your coding practices enhanced project collaboration and minimized the likelihood of bugs or issues post-deployment.

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Could you provide an example of a challenging technical problem you solved?

Provide a detailed example of a technical challenge in your past work, focusing on the problem, your thought process in tackling it, and the final outcome. Highlight the role your technical skills played, such as your understanding of quaternion kinematics or optimization algorithms, to demonstrate how you effectively navigated the problem.

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How do you keep up with advancements in motion control technologies?

Discuss your proactive strategies for staying updated with the latest trends and advancements in motion control technologies. Reference sources such as industry publications, online courses, conferences, or professional organizations. Mention any lifelong learning commitment—such as improved programming skills or adapting to new programming languages—that keeps you equipped to meet evolving industry demands.

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What experience do you have with real-time embedded systems?

Elaborate on your experience with real-time embedded systems, detailing specific projects where you developed or maintained such systems. Discuss the complexities involved, such as managing resources and ensuring real-time performance constraints, and the approaches you used to overcome these challenges. This will convey your understanding of the intricate nature of control systems.

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How familiar are you with AI applications in motion control?

In your answer, explain your knowledge of how AI can be integrated into motion control systems. Provide examples of projects where you applied AI for optimization or control tasks, discussing the methodologies you used and the results achieved. This demonstrates your ability to leverage modern technologies to enhance system performance.

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Can you describe a project where you tuned control algorithms?

Use this opportunity to detail a specific project where you tuned feedback or feed-forward control algorithms. Explain the techniques you employed, such as Bode plots or Nichols charts, and the impact those adjustments had on system performance. This showcases your hands-on experience and technical expertise in control theory.

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What steps do you take for fault detection in control systems?

Answer by describing your approach to fault detection in control systems, including the tools and techniques you employ for monitoring system performance. Discuss any experience you have with developing fault detection algorithms and how they helped you identify and resolve issues in a timely manner. This shows foresight and planning in your engineering process.

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Why do you want to join Albedo as a Senior Motion Control Optimization Engineer?

In your response, convey your excitement about Albedo’s mission to revolutionize space technology and how your skills align with their objectives. Highlight specific aspects of Albedo's projects, values, or culture that resonate with you. This not only demonstrates your interest but also shows how you envision your future contributions to their ambitious goals.

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Albedo ESP is a company based out of Colombia.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 24, 2025

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