Principal Engineer, Brake System Control Algorithms

POSITION SUMMARY:
 
Our client is a premier chassis supplier that designs and manufactures brake and suspension systems for the global transportation market.  We are seeking a Principal / Sr. Engineer that is highly experienced with Brake System Control Algorithm to lead the development of next-generation vehicle motion control and brake system functions.  This role is ideal for engineers with backgrounds in Tier 1 suppliers or OEMs who have hands-on experience delivering production brake control algorithms (ESC, One-Box, EMB) and thrive in a fast-moving, technically deep environment.  You will own algorithm development from concept through production and play a key role in advancing our braking and vehicle dynamics capabilities.  This individual will work on site at the primary North American technical center of a major automotive OEM in support of BWI controlled brakes products.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

We are a Tier 1 supplier specializing in braking and chassis control systems, delivering safety-critical products to global OEM customers. We are looking for a Principal Engineer that can design, develop and enhance algorithms for new and existing systems and applications.

As a principal engineer, you are the senior technical leader who owns direction, solves the hardest problems, and multiplies the impact of entire teams or departments. Set technical vision and high-level architecture for key systems or a product area, so many teams’ work fits together coherently over time. Act as the expert “sounding board” and escalation point when senior engineers hit issues they cannot resolve, becoming the final technical reviewer and fixer. Bridge engineering and business strategy, helping executives choose which projects to prioritize and which approaches best support long-term goals.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
 

  • Lead end-to-end algorithm development for brake and vehicle motion control systems (ESC, One-Box, Two-Box, EMB), from requirements to production deployment.
  • Design and implement control algorithms for core functions (ABS, TCS, VDC, brake assist, stability control) with strong focus on vehicle dynamics performance.
  • Develop and validate models using MATLAB/Simulink, including MIL/SIL, and support HIL and vehicle-level testing.
  • Define AUTOSAR-based software components (SW-Cs), interfaces, and calibration strategies; ensure smooth integration with embedded software.
  • Drive algorithm calibration, tuning, and optimization through simulation and real-world vehicle testing (including winter/summer programs).
  • Lead root-cause analysis and issue resolution during development, validation, and customer application phases.
  • Ensure compliance with ISO 26262 (up to ASIL-D), including safety concept implementation and monitoring strategies.
  • Establish and scale best practices, reusable models, and algorithm libraries to enable platform-based development.
  • Mentor engineers and act as a technical leader across cross-functional teams (systems, software, calibration, testing).
  • Track emerging trends (e.g., EMB, integrated motion control) and drive next-generation algorithm innovation.

REQUIREMENT QUALIFICATIONS:
 

  • Bachelor’s or higher in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Controls, Software, or related)
  • 5+ years of experience in automotive brake system or vehicle dynamics control algorithm development
  • Proven track record delivering production-level ESC / braking functions
  • Strong expertise in vehicle dynamics and control theory
  • Proficiency in: MATLAB/Simulink (modeling, simulation, validation)
  • TargetLink or Embedded Coder (production code generation)
  • MIL / SIL / HIL validation workflows
  • CAN tools (e.g., CANoe, CANalyzer)
  • Working knowledge of AUTOSAR architecture and embedded systems integration
  • Experience with functional safety (ISO 26262), preferably ASIL-D
  • Background with leading Tier 1 suppliers or OEMs in the Detroit ecosystem
  • Hands-on experience with EMB, integrated brake systems, or vehicle motion control.
  • Experience supporting vehicle testing and calibration (winter/summer testing)
  • Leadership experience (technical lead, mentoring, or project ownership).