Automotive Functional Safety Architect (AI)

TL;DR

Automotive Functional Safety Architect (AI): Designing and leading safety architecture for automotive-grade AI chips with an accent on ISO 26262 compliance at the semiconductor level. Focus on implementing fault-tolerant safety mechanisms and driving technical alignment across external automotive partnerships and European consortia.

Location: Must be based in Europe (Germany, Belgium, Italy, or Netherlands preferred). The role is open to remote work with a hybrid preference in Munich, Germany.

Company

hirify.global is a high-growth, deep-tech company developing next-generation AI platforms to improve global efficiency, backed by a world-class team and significant venture funding.

What you will do

• Define and own ISO 26262-compliant safety architecture for AI-enabled SoCs (ASIL B to D).
• Collaborate with hardware and RTL teams to integrate fault-tolerant features like ECC, BIST, and watchdogs.
• Conduct safety analyses including HARA, FMEDA, FTA, and DFA to ensure robust diagnostic coverage.
• Lead external technical engagements with automotive partners, customers, and regulatory consortia.
• Support certification audits and integrate cybersecurity standards like ISO/SAE 21434 and SOTIF.
• Develop and document comprehensive safety cases, plans, and manuals.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in semiconductor functional safety (ISO 26262).
• Proven expertise in hardware-level safety architecture and RTL fault detection design.
• Proficiency in HARA, FMEDA, FTA, and DFA methods.
• Experience interacting with certification bodies and safety assessors.
• Strong communication skills for leading external technical discussions.
• Must be authorized to work in and based in Europe.

Nice to have

• Experience with NPU or high-performance AI accelerator architectures.
• Working knowledge of ISO/SAE 21434 and ISO/PAS 21448 (SOTIF).
• Background in AI/ML-based automotive perception systems.
• Proficiency in safety tooling such as Medini Analyze or Ansys.

Culture & Benefits

• Attractive compensation package including pension and insurance plans.
• Equity options and ownership-focused team culture.
• Collaborative environment with a strong emphasis on creativity and continuous innovation.
• Support for an inclusive, diverse, and flexible working atmosphere.