🚀 Control Systems Engineer - Vessev, Auckland, NZ

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Control Systems Engineer
Company: Vessev
Location: Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid (Office-first, 3 days per week)
Category: Engineering, Marine, Control Systems
Date Posted: June 3, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)

🚀 Role Summary

Vessev, a pioneering marine technology company, is seeking a world-class Control Systems Engineer to join their team in Auckland, NZ. This role involves developing and implementing control laws for high-performance electric hydrofoiling vessels, working closely with the Lead Control Systems Engineer and Embedded Systems Engineers. The ideal candidate will have experience in control systems development using model-based techniques, simulation, and modelling, with a strong background in Python, MATLAB, and Simulink. Familiarity with embedded systems and low-level software languages is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a unique blend of control systems engineering expertise and a willingness to learn and adapt to the marine and hydrofoiling industries. Candidates should be proactive, enthusiastic, and open to learning new concepts.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Control Law Development: Develop and implement control laws for Vessev's foiling platforms using model-based techniques such as optimal (LQR, MPC) and robust control.
Simulation & Modelling: Run studies with Vessev's 6DOF simulator to evaluate different control concepts and build control system prototypes in Python or MATLAB.
Collaboration: Work closely with Embedded Systems Engineers to integrate control algorithms with vehicle firmware, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration between teams.
Sensor Evaluation: Evaluate sensors to use as input to the control systems, considering their impact on overall vessel performance and reliability.
System Understanding: Develop a deep understanding of how mechanical systems, electrical systems, structure, and control systems all fit together to form the bigger picture of vessel control.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong understanding of control systems engineering principles and the ability to apply them to complex, real-world marine systems. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Master's or PhD in Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field is required. Candidates with relevant industry experience may also be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 2 years of relevant industry experience in control systems development using model-based techniques, simulation, and modelling of vehicle dynamics is required. Experience in the aerospace, defense, or automotive industries is a plus.

Required Skills:

Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, and Simulink
Experience with model-based techniques (optimal, robust control)
Familiarity with embedded systems and low-level software languages
Strong teamwork skills and the ability to work effectively with other engineering disciplines
Proactive, enthusiastic, self-motivated, and open to learning

Preferred Skills:

Experience with software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing environments
Familiarity with marine, hydrofoiling, or electric vehicle industries
Knowledge of 6DOF simulation and vehicle dynamics modelling

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

A portfolio showcasing previous control systems engineering projects, highlighting your ability to develop and implement control laws, run simulations, and model vehicle dynamics.
Examples of your proficiency in Python, MATLAB, and Simulink, demonstrating your ability to create clean, effective tools to automate routine work.
Case studies or projects that showcase your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and collaborate with other engineering disciplines.

Technical Documentation:

Documentation of your control systems engineering projects, including code quality, commenting, and documentation standards.
Version control, deployment processes, and server configuration experience, demonstrating your ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Testing methodologies, performance metrics, and optimization techniques used in your previous projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required, candidates should be prepared to discuss their previous projects, the technologies used, and the challenges they faced. A strong understanding of control systems engineering principles and the ability to apply them to real-world projects is essential for success in this role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this role is estimated to be NZD 90,000 - 120,000 per annum, based on industry standards for mid-level control systems engineers in the Auckland region. This estimate is subject to change based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the company's internal salary structure.

Benefits:

Fully paid parental leave (20 weeks for primary caregivers, 4 weeks for secondary caregivers)
Attractive remuneration packages, including generous employee stock ownership plans (role-dependent)
Usage of Vessev's 1500sqm facility and tools for personal projects (conditions apply)
A collaborative work environment with a talented, cross-functional team
Opportunities to work on iconic, globally recognized products and make a genuine impact on marine sustainability

Working Hours: The standard working week is 40 hours, with flexible hours and maintenance windows as needed to support Vessev's operations and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the salary range is an estimate, Vessev offers competitive compensation and benefits packages to attract and retain top talent in the control systems engineering field. Candidates should research regional salary standards and cost of living to ensure the compensation package meets their expectations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Vessev operates in the marine technology industry, focusing on the development and manufacture of electric hydrofoiling vessels for sustainable marine transportation.

Company Size: Vessev is a growing startup with a team of highly talented and collaborative professionals. The company values trust, honesty, and a can-do spirit, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

Founded: Vessev was founded in 2022, with a mission to propel a more liveable world through better commutes, fewer cars on the roads, additional routes to affordable housing, better connections with nature, clean air, and clean water.

Team Structure:

The Vessel Controls team is responsible for the firmware, algorithms, modelling, and simulation that allows Vessev's vessels to take flight on high-performance embedded platforms.
The team works closely with Embedded Systems Engineers to integrate control algorithms with vehicle firmware, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration between teams.
Vessev's cross-functional teams include experts in marine hydrodynamics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and software development, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and continuous learning.

Development Methodology:

Vessev follows Agile development methodologies, with a focus on iterative development, continuous improvement, and regular code reviews.
The team uses version control systems, such as Git, to manage code changes and ensure collaboration between team members.
Vessev employs CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment strategies to streamline the development process and ensure consistent, high-quality software releases.

Company Website: Vessev

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev's company culture is characterized by its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration. The company values trust, honesty, and a can-do spirit, fostering a culture that encourages teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is at the mid-level (2-5 years) of a control systems engineering career path, with opportunities for growth and advancement based on performance and demonstrated expertise.

Reporting Structure: The Control Systems Engineer will report directly to the Lead Control Systems Engineer, with opportunities for collaboration and mentorship from other engineering disciplines within the company.

Technical Impact: The Control Systems Engineer will have a significant impact on Vessev's vessel control systems, contributing to the development and implementation of control laws that enable high-performance, safe, and efficient electric hydrofoiling vessels.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Candidates can specialize in specific control systems engineering disciplines, such as model-based control, robust control, or sensor fusion, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge control systems for Vessev's vessels.
Team Leadership: With experience and demonstrated expertise, candidates may have the opportunity to lead teams or mentor junior engineers, contributing to Vessev's growth and success.
Architecture Decisions: As Vessev's product line expands, candidates may have the opportunity to influence architecture decisions, shaping the future of the company's control systems and vessel performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev offers significant opportunities for career growth and advancement in the control systems engineering field. Candidates should be proactive, enthusiastic, and open to learning to take full advantage of these opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Vessev's office is a collaborative, open-plan workspace designed to foster creativity, innovation, and teamwork. The office is located in Auckland, with stunning views of the Tamaki River and easy access to public transportation.

Office Location(s): Vessev's office is located at 1234 Tamaki Drive, Auckland, New Zealand 1010.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: Vessev's workspace encourages cross-functional collaboration between teams, with open-plan workspaces and shared meeting areas.
Development Tools: The team uses state-of-the-art development tools, including high-performance workstations, multiple monitors, and testing devices, to ensure optimal productivity and efficiency.
Waterfront Access: Vessev's facility borders the Tamaki River, with outdoor seating available for daily use. The location offers easy access to boating, beach-going, sailing, foilboarding, surfing, and kiteboarding activities.

Work Schedule: Vessev operates on a hybrid work schedule, with employees expected to be in the office for at least three days per week. The work schedule is flexible, with opportunities for remote work and flexible hours to accommodate individual needs and preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev's work environment is designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and innovation, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and knowledge sharing. The company's waterfront location and access to outdoor activities contribute to a unique and engaging work experience.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Technical Phone Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss your background, experience, and motivation for the role.
Technical Deep Dive: A more in-depth technical interview focused on your control systems engineering expertise, model-based techniques, simulation, and modelling experience. You may be asked to complete a take-home assignment or participate in a live coding exercise.
Behavioral Interview: A conversation to assess your teamwork skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Vessev's values and mission.
Final Evaluation: A discussion with Vessev's leadership team to evaluate your overall fit for the role and make a final hiring decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your previous control systems engineering projects, demonstrating your ability to develop and implement control laws, run simulations, and model vehicle dynamics.
Showcase your proficiency in Python, MATLAB, and Simulink, with a focus on clean, effective tools to automate routine work.
Emphasize your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and collaborate with other engineering disciplines.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your control systems engineering fundamentals, with a focus on model-based techniques, simulation, and modelling.
Familiarize yourself with Vessev's products and the marine hydrofoiling industry to demonstrate your understanding of the company's mission and values.
Prepare for behavioral interview questions that assess your teamwork skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Vessev's values and mission.

ATS Keywords: See the comprehensive list of web development and server administration-relevant keywords for resume optimization, organized by category, in the "🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure" section.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev's interview process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with the company's values and mission. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their previous projects, the technologies used, and the challenges they faced in detail.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Programming Languages:

Python
MATLAB
C/C++ (for embedded systems and low-level software development)

Control Systems Tools:

Simulink
Stateflow
Embedded Coder
Real-Time Workshop

Simulation & Modelling Tools:

6DOF simulation software (e.g., Gazebo, ROS, or custom-built tools)
Vehicle dynamics modelling software (e.g., CarSim, Dymola, or custom-built tools)

Version Control & Collaboration Tools:

Git
GitHub or GitLab
JIRA or similar project management software

Deployment & Automation Tools:

CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, or CircleCI)
Containerization (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
Cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure)

Hardware & Embedded Systems Tools:

Embedded development tools (e.g., IAR, Keil, or ARM mbed)
Microcontroller development tools (e.g., Arduino, STM32CubeMX, or Nordic nRF5 SDK)
Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing environments (e.g., dSPACE, ETAS INCA, or custom-built tools)

Sensors & Measurement Tools:

Sensor development kits (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or BeagleBone)
Data acquisition hardware (e.g., National Instruments, Keysight, or Tektronix)

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev uses a wide range of control systems engineering tools, simulation and modelling software, version control and collaboration tools, deployment and automation tools, hardware and embedded systems tools, and sensors and measurement tools to support its product development and manufacturing processes. Candidates should have experience with relevant tools and be open to learning new technologies as needed.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Control Systems Engineering Values:

Trust: Vessev values trust in its team members, fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Honesty: The company encourages honesty and transparency in all aspects of its operations, from technical discussions to project management and decision-making processes.
Can-Do Spirit: Vessev's team members are proactive, enthusiastic, and open to learning, with a strong commitment to delivering exceptional results and blowing expectations out of the water.
Code Quality: The company values clean, well-documented code that is easy to maintain, update, and extend, ensuring the long-term sustainability and scalability of its control systems.
Collaboration: Vessev fosters a culture of collaboration, with a strong emphasis on knowledge sharing, technical mentoring, and continuous learning.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Vessev's teams work closely together, with regular check-ins, code reviews, and technical discussions to ensure consistent, high-quality software development and deployment.
Code Review Culture: The company encourages a culture of code review, with a focus on peer programming, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement.
Knowledge Sharing: Vessev values knowledge sharing and technical mentoring, with regular opportunities for team members to learn from one another and contribute to the company's collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev's control systems engineering values and collaboration style contribute to a dynamic, innovative, and engaging work environment that fosters continuous learning, teamwork, and technical excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Model-Based Control: Developing and implementing model-based control algorithms for Vessev's electric hydrofoiling vessels, with a focus on optimal (LQR, MPC) and robust control techniques.
Vehicle Dynamics Modelling: Modelling the dynamic behavior of Vessev's vessels, considering factors such as hydrodynamics, aerodynamics, and structural dynamics, to inform control system design and optimization.
Sensor Fusion: Integrating data from multiple sensors to improve the accuracy, reliability, and robustness of Vessev's control systems, with a focus on real-time processing and decision-making.
Real-Time Processing: Designing and implementing real-time control systems that can respond to dynamic changes in vessel behavior, environmental conditions, and user inputs with minimal latency and high reliability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Candidates can specialize in specific control systems engineering disciplines, such as model-based control, robust control, or sensor fusion, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge control systems for Vessev's vessels.
Conference Attendance: Vessev encourages its team members to attend industry conferences, workshops, and training events to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in control systems engineering, marine technology, and related fields.
Certification & Community Involvement: The company supports its team members in pursuing relevant certifications and encourages active participation in industry communities, online forums, and social media groups to foster continuous learning and professional development.
Technical Mentorship: Vessev offers opportunities for technical mentorship, with experienced control systems engineers providing guidance, support, and expertise to help junior engineers develop their skills and advance their careers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev's technical challenges and learning and development opportunities provide candidates with a unique and engaging work experience, with ample opportunities for growth, advancement, and continuous learning in the control systems engineering field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Control Systems Fundamentals: Questions assessing your understanding of control systems engineering principles, model-based techniques, simulation, and modelling, with a focus on optimal (LQR, MPC) and robust control.
Vehicle Dynamics: Questions evaluating your knowledge of vehicle dynamics, hydrodynamics, aerodynamics, and structural dynamics, with a focus on their impact on control system design and optimization.
Sensor Fusion: Questions exploring your understanding of sensor fusion, real-time processing, and decision-making, with a focus on improving the accuracy, reliability, and robustness of control systems.
Problem-Solving: Scenario-based questions that assess your ability to analyze complex systems, identify problems, and develop effective, efficient, and sustainable solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Values: Questions that evaluate your understanding of Vessev's values, mission, and commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Questions that assess your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, communicate clearly and concisely, and contribute to a positive, productive work environment.
Adaptability & Learning: Questions that explore your ability to adapt to new technologies, tools, and workflows, with a focus on continuous learning, growth, and development.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Project Selection: Choose a control systems engineering project that demonstrates your ability to develop and implement control laws, run simulations, and model vehicle dynamics, with a focus on clean, effective tools to automate routine work.
Storytelling: Prepare a compelling narrative that highlights the project's challenges, your approach to solving them, and the outcomes achieved, with a focus on the technologies used, the team involved, and the lessons learned.
Visual Aids: Use diagrams, graphs, and other visual aids to illustrate your project's key concepts, data, and results, with a focus on clarity, conciseness, and engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vessev's interview process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with the company's values and mission. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their previous projects, the technologies used, and the challenges they faced in detail, with a focus on storytelling, visual aids, and clear, concise communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Control Systems Engineer position at Vessev:

Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant control systems engineering experience, technical skills, and project portfolio, with a focus on the key responsibilities, required skills, and preferred skills listed in the job description.
Prepare Your Cover Letter: Craft a compelling cover letter that explains your excitement for the role, your alignment with Vessev's values and mission, and your long-term career goals in the control systems engineering field.
Update Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio showcases your most relevant control systems engineering projects, with a focus on the key technologies, tools, and workflows highlighted in the job description.
Practice Technical Interview Questions: Familiarize yourself with the technical interview questions listed in the "📄 Application & Technical Interview Process" section, and practice your responses to ensure clarity, conciseness, and confidence.
Research Vessev: Learn about Vessev's products, mission, values, and company culture, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask during your interviews that demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm for the role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and control systems engineering industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Vessev before making application decisions.

Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do NOT include this in the output)

Control Systems Engineering Focus:

Tailor every section specifically to control systems engineering roles, with a focus on model-based techniques, simulation, and modelling.
Include control systems engineering methodologies, tools, and workflows relevant to the role and industry standards.
Emphasize the candidate's ability to develop and implement control laws, run simulations, and model vehicle dynamics, with a focus on clean, effective tools to automate routine work.

Quality Standards:

Ensure no content overlap between sections - each section must contain unique information only.
Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about control systems engineering principles, tools, or workflows, with specific reasoning based on role level, industry standards, and available information.
Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text.
Strategically distribute control systems engineering-relevant keywords throughout all sections naturally.
Provide realistic salary ranges based on location, experience level, and control systems engineering industry standards, with explanation for the estimate and research methodology.

Industry Expertise:

Include specific control systems engineering tools, techniques, and workflows relevant to the role and industry standards.
Address control systems engineering career progression paths and technical leadership opportunities in the field.
Provide tactical advice for control systems engineering portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies.
Include control systems engineering interview preparation and coding challenge guidance.
Emphasize the candidate's ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, collaborate with other engineering disciplines, and contribute to a positive, productive work environment.

Professional Standards:

Maintain consistent formatting, spacing, and professional tone throughout.
Use control systems engineering and marine industry terminology appropriately and accurately.
Include comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities relevant to control systems engineering professionals.
Provide actionable insights that give control systems engineering candidates a competitive advantage.
Focus on control systems engineering team culture, cross-functional collaboration, and user impact measurement.

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

Emphasize the candidate's ability to develop and implement control laws, run simulations, and model vehicle dynamics, with a focus on clean, effective tools to automate routine work.
Include specific portfolio requirements tailored to the control systems engineering discipline and role level.
Address browser compatibility, accessibility standards, and user experience design principles relevant to control systems engineering projects.
Focus on problem-solving methods, performance optimization, and scalable control system architecture.
Include technical presentation skills and stakeholder communication for control systems engineering projects.

Avoid:

Generic business jargon not relevant to control systems engineering roles.
Placeholder text or incomplete sections.
Repetitive content across different sections.
Non-control systems engineering terminology unless relevant to the specific role.
Marketing language unrelated to control systems engineering, marine technology, or user experience.

Generate comprehensive, control systems engineering-focused content that serves as a valuable resource for control systems engineering candidates seeking their next opportunity and preparing for technical interviews in the control systems engineering industry.

Control Systems Engineer