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Project Engineer - Actuation

Mountain View, CA

Kodiak Robotics, Inc. was founded in 2018 and has become a leader in autonomous ground transportation committed to a safer and more efficient future for all. The company has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) powered technology stack purpose-built for commercial trucking and the public sector. The company delivers freight daily for its customers across the southern United States using its autonomous technology. In 2024, Kodiak became the first known company to publicly announce delivering a driverless semi-truck to a customer. Kodiak is also leveraging its commercial self-driving software to develop, test and deploy autonomous capabilities for the U.S. Department of Defense.

We are looking for a Project Engineer focused on actuation systems - steering, braking, powertrain, and vehicle control - to help us deliver on the promise of safe and scalable autonomous trucks. This role sits at the intersection of engineering execution, supplier collaboration, and program management. You’ll be responsible for driving the development and integration of key vehicle systems that enable Kodiak’s autonomous platform.

In this role, you will:

  • Own Actuation System Programs
    • Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of technical programs related to steering, braking, powertrain, and vehicle control systems
    • Scope actuation system needs in collaboration with engineering and product teams
    • Manage internal and external milestones to ensure timely delivery of subsystem components and complete vehicle integration
    • Evaluate supplier technologies through trade studies and technical/commercial assessments
  • Manage Strategic Suppliers
    • Identify, develop, and manage key suppliers
    • Build and maintain relationships with key technical stakeholders within partner organizations
    • Act as the primary technical interface between Kodiak and actuation system vendors
    • Coordinate with the systems engineering team to define and track requirements
    • Monitor supplier performance and ensure milestones and deliverables are met
  • Coordinate Cross-Functional Execution
    • Work with hardware, software, systems, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of actuation systems
    • Communicate schedules, status, risks, and priorities clearly across all levels of the organization
    • Proactively identify and resolve blockers related to supplier execution, technical dependencies, or internal priorities

What you’ll bring:

  • 3+ years of experience in project engineering, ideally in commercial vehicle, automotive, or autonomy-related domains
  • Background in mechatronics, mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering
  • Proven experience managing technical programs that span hardware/software boundaries and involve complex supplier relationships
  • Deep understanding of vehicle systems, with a preference for experience in steering, braking, or drivetrain technologies
  • Excellent communication skills—comfortable navigating between technical details and big-picture program goals
  • Strong organizational skills—able to manage multiple stakeholders, priorities, and timelines
  • A self-starter attitude—you take ownership, lead from the front, and drive progress independently

What we offer:

  • Competitive compensation package including equity and biannual bonuses
  • Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision plans through Kaiser Permanente, Anthem, and Guardian (including a medical plan with infertility benefits)
  • Flexible PTO and generous parental leave policies
  • Our office is centrally located in Mountain View, CA
  • Office perks: dog-friendly, free catered lunch, a fully stocked kitchen, and free EV charging
  • Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance
  • Wellbeing Benefits - Headspace, One Medical, Gympass, Spring Health
  • Fidelity 401(k)
  • Commuter, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, HSA
  • Various incentive programs (referral bonuses, patent bonuses, etc.)

Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Please note that the compensation details listed above are base salary only and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.

California Pay Range

$145,000 - $183,000 USD

Actual salary ranges will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the role location. Please note that the compensation details listed above are base salary only and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits.
 
At Kodiak, we strive to build a diverse community working towards our common company goals in a safe and collaborative environment where harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. Kodiak is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
 
In alignment with its business operations, Kodiak adheres to all relevant statutes, regulations, and administrative prerequisites. Accordingly, roles that carry more sensitive requirements may be limited to candidates that can satisfy additional scrutiny and eligibility for such positions may hinge on verification of a candidate’s residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status. Should the position require, and Kodiak determines that a candidate’s residence, U.S. person status, and/or citizenship status necessitate an export license, bar the candidate from the position, or otherwise fall under national security-related restrictions, Kodiak will consider the candidate for alternative positions unaffected by such restrictions, under terms and conditions set forth at Kodiak’s sole discretion, or, as an alternative, opt not to proceed with the candidate’s application. If applicable, Kodiak may provide visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.

 

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