Autonomy Localization Engineer

Company Description Code19 Autonomy is building the next generation of autonomous systems designed to move faster, think smarter, and win in contested environments. Born from the world’s first professional autonomous racing team, we use motorsports as an extreme testing ground for AI, robotics, and autonomous mobility technologies that can transition from the racetrack to real-world defense and commercial applications. Founded by military veterans and former intelligence professionals, Code19 combines operational experience with elite engineering talent to develop autonomy systems built to outpace, outmaneuver, and defeat robotic threats. Our work spans autonomous mobility, AI-driven decision making, control systems, path planning, and advanced human-machine interaction.Role Description As a Robotics Localization Engineer (contract, remote), you will design, implement, and test localization algorithms that enable autonomous race vehicles to accurately estimate their position and orientation in real time. You will integrate sensor data to build robust state estimation pipelines for high-speed, dynamic environments. Day to day, you will develop and optimize localization modules, run simulations, analyze logs, and tune parameters to improve accuracy, robustness, and latency. You will collaborate closely with perception, planning, controls, and systems engineers to ensure localization performance meets racing and safety requirements, and you will support field tests by preparing localization software, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting issues. You will also contribute to documentation, code reviews, and continuous improvement of development and testing workflows.QualificationsLocalization Engineering and Localization Testing skills, including design, implementation, and validation of state estimation and sensor fusion algorithms.Quality Assurance experience in robotics or autonomy systems, with a focus on test planning, regression testing, and performance benchmarking.Desktop Publishing and technical documentation skills to clearly present localization architectures, test results, and operational procedures.Translation and cross-functional communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to stakeholders across engineering and operations teams.Proficiency with C++ and/or Python, and experience with ROS/ROS2 or similar robotics middleware.Hands-on experience with localization technologies (e.g., EKF/UKF, particle filters, SLAM, visual-inertial odometry, RTK-GPS, map-based localization).Strong background in linear algebra, probability, and estimation theory; Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (advanced degree preferred or equivalent practical experience).Comfort working with distributed teams and on-site with customers. Experience in high-dynamics or safety-critical domains (autonomous vehicles, drones, racing, defense, or similar) is a plus.Opportunity & BenefitsRetirement savings plan with company IRA matchHealth, dental, and vision coverage optionsOpportunities for domestic and international travelFlexible work schedule focused on performance and mission outcomesWork alongside elite engineers, operators, and innovators at the forefront of autonomy and roboticsDirect impact on next-generation autonomous systems operating in real-world, high-consequence environmentsFast-paced, mission-driven culture shaped by motorsports, defense, and advanced technology innovation