Senior Robotics Controls Engineer, Hand Control

🤖 Job Title: Senior Robotics Controls Engineer – Hand Control

Location: Vancouver, BC (On-Site)
Department: Hardware Engineering – Controls
Job Type: Full-Time

🧠 About Sanctuary AI

At Sanctuary AI, we’re on a bold mission to build general-purpose humanoid robots powered by human-like intelligence. Founded in 2018, we vertically integrate AI, robotics, and hardware to develop sophisticated systems capable of performing real-world tasks. Recognized as a Top Startup by LinkedIn, we continue to push boundaries from our world-class Vancouver facility.

🔧 Role Overview

We’re seeking a Senior Robotics Controls Engineer with a specialization in Hand Control Systems to join our dynamic Controls team. In this critical role, you’ll design, implement, and optimize advanced control systems that power the dexterous robotic hands in our humanoid robots. You’ll bridge the gap between theory and application, enabling precise, human-like motion in complex environments.

🚀 Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement real-time controllers for robotic hands using MATLAB/Simulink, C++, and Python
• Integrate control software with physical robotic hardware systems
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (hardware, AI/ML, embedded systems) on full-stack control development
• Analyze the impact of mechanical and hardware design on control system performance
• Rigorously test and optimize for robustness, reliability, and real-time responsiveness

🎓 Minimum Qualifications

• MS or Ph.D. in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields
• Strong background in robotic control systems, signal processing, and real-time programming
• Proven hands-on experience implementing robot control algorithms on physical systems

🧰 Preferred Skills & Tools

• Advanced proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink for control design and simulation
• Strong coding skills in C++ and Python
• Experience with at least one robotics dynamics library: Pinocchio, Drake, MuJoCo, etc.
• Familiarity with Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) systems
• Understanding of mechanism design and its interplay with control strategies
• Experience in embedded systems and real-time control loop integration
• Exposure to machine learning techniques (e.g., RL, IL, Behavior Cloning)
• Familiarity with Jira, Confluence, and similar project tools
• Knowledge of hydraulic systems is a plus

🧬 Traits We Value

• Proactive, hands-on problem solver with a bias for action
• Positive and adaptable attitude—willing to tackle any challenge head-on
• Empathetic collaborator who fosters a culture of ownership and accountability
• Driven by purpose and passionate about enabling intelligent machine behavior
• Strong communication skills and clarity in technical collaboration

💰 Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary plus equity participation
• Full health benefits and paid vacation
• Modern, high-tech work environment with cutting-edge tools
• Role-based flexibility for on-site work arrangements
• Total compensation structured to exceed market benchmarks

🌍 Diversity & Inclusion

Sanctuary AI is an equal opportunity employer. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, competence, and merit—regardless of race, gender, religion, or other protected status.