Control System Algorithm Engineer
Description
SFU Rocketry is seeking Control System Algorithm Engineers to join the Control Systems Subteam. This role focuses on designing and implementing the flight control algorithms that stabilize and guide our rocket throughout its mission.
You will develop state estimation filters, implement sensor fusion, and design optimal control strategies for actuating aerodynamic surfaces and thrust vectoring systems. Your work will directly determine the rocket’s ability to follow a precise trajectory while ensuring stability and minimizing control effort.
This is a highly analytical position that merges control theory, mathematics, and embedded implementation, offering hands-on experience in flight dynamics, sensor integration, and hardware-in-the-loop testing.
Duties & Responsibilities
Algorithm Development
Design, implement, and validate flight control algorithms for rocket stabilization and guidance
Develop Kalman filters (EKF/UKF) and sensor fusion techniques for state estimation from IMU, GPS, and barometer data
Create optimal control strategies to achieve mission objectives while minimizing control effort
Flight Profiling
Translate optimization results into actuator commands for fins or thrust vectoring systems
Refine flight profiles using inverse feedback to track target trajectories accurately
System Integration
Collaborate with the hardware and embedded systems teams to integrate algorithms with the flight computer
Ensure accurate processing of sensor data for real-time control
Simulation & Validation
Utilize the rocket’s 6-DoF simulation environment for closed-loop algorithm testing
Perform hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to validate algorithm robustness prior to flight
Collaboration & Documentation
Maintain clear documentation of algorithms, assumptions, and results for cross-team use
Attend team meetings and regular work sessions with your Control Systems Lead
Key Qualifications
Strong foundation in classical and modern control theory (PID, state-space, stability analysis)
Experience with state estimation (Kalman filters, EKF) and sensor fusion
Familiarity with aerospace sensors (IMU, gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetometer, GPS)
Understanding of optimal control principles and algorithm complexity analysis
Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded or robotics applications
Strong math background (linear algebra, quaternions, optimization methods)
Ability to debug complex system interactions and solve analytical problems
Experience with MATLAB/Simulink for modeling and algorithm validation is desirable
Statement from SFU Rocketry
SFU Rocketry is an inclusive and equal-opportunity organization. We welcome, include, and respect all regardless of race, color, ancestry, place of origin, religion, family status, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political belief, or conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offense unrelated to employment.
SFU Rocketry is Simon Fraser University’s largest comprehensive design team in the University’s history, and has a strong reputation to uphold. Our members are highly sought-after and have been actively recruited for permanent and co-op intern industry positions. We operate as a professional organization, where professional conduct is required and expected from all SFU Rocketry members at all times.
