Perceptual Audio Engineer (Research)

TL;DR

Perceptual Audio Engineer (Research): Develops metrics, methods, and evaluation frameworks that connect algorithms to user perception with an accent on timbre, artifacts, clarity, spatial realism, and comfort. Focus on designing listening tests, creating perceptual datasets, developing ML-based metrics, and establishing quality gates to prevent perceptual regressions in products.

Location: Northridge, California, USA. Flexible work environment allowing full-time remote work globally for positions that can be performed outside a hirify.global or customer location. #LI-hybrid

Salary: $134,250 - $196,900

Company

Global leader in connected technologies across automotive, lifestyle, and digital transformation solutions.

What you will do

• Create perceptual metrics and evaluation methodologies correlating with human preference and quality judgments.
• Design and execute subjective listening studies including stimulus generation, statistical analysis, and repeatability checks.
• Develop ML-based quality prediction and artifact detection tools for rapid iteration.
• Define acceptance criteria and regression tests for productization workflows.
• Build and maintain perceptual datasets, labeling strategies, and experiment tracking.
• Collaborate with DSP, acoustics, ML, and system testing teams to cover edge cases.

Requirements

• MS or PhD in EE/CS/Acoustics/Psychoacoustics/Statistics or equivalent.
• 5+ years in perceptual audio, audio quality evaluation, or related research/engineering.
• Strong psychoacoustics knowledge and statistical analysis for human-subject experiments.
• Python and/or MATLAB for analysis; familiarity with ML frameworks and DSP concepts.
• Experience with AI-assisted tools in reproducible workflows.
• Complete background investigation and drug screen post-offer.

Nice to have

• Perceptual evaluation for spatial audio, headphone tuning, or automotive cabin audio.
• Creating objective metrics that become organizational standards.
• Familiarity with embedded ML deployment constraints.
• Patents/publications in perceptual audio or quality evaluation.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible work environment with full-time remote globally where possible.
• Employee discounts on JBL, hirify.global Kardon, AKG products.
• Extensive training via hirify.global University and tuition reimbursement.
• Competitive wellness benefits, medical/dental/vision, HSA/FSA, retirement with match.
• Paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, volunteer leave, bonding/caregiver leave.
• Inclusive culture with recognition programs and professional development.