Senior Software Engineer (Motion Planning)

TL;DR

Senior Software Engineer (Motion Planning): Developing and optimizing motion planning algorithms for automated driving systems with an accent on trajectory generation, decision-making, and performance-critical C++ development. Focus on solving complex navigation challenges, ensuring safety in dynamic environments, and scaling autonomy software for Ford vehicles.

Location: Must be based in Pittsburgh, PA, Palo Alto, CA, or Dearborn, MI

Salary: $179,200 - $268,800 USD

Company

A Ford Motor Company subsidiary developing automated driving technology at the speed of a startup.

What you will do

• Design and develop algorithms for route planning, behavior planning, and trajectory optimization.
• Test algorithms through unit testing, cloud simulation, log playback, and on-vehicle testing.
• Optimize runtime and memory efficiency of onboard motion planning software.
• Develop visualization and debugging tools to analyze fleet testing logs.
• Analyze metrics from fleet testing to prioritize development tasks.
• Coordinate with autonomy teams to ensure robust integration of motion planning inputs.

Requirements

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field with 4+ years of experience (or Master's with 2+ years, or PhD).
• Deep expertise in motion planning or software engineering.
• Strong proficiency in modern C++ programming.
• Experience writing production-quality, performance-critical code.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Nice to have

• Experience with graph or sampling-based planning, computational geometry, or planning under uncertainty.
• Knowledge of reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or model-predictive control.
• Python programming experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with employer-matched 401(k).
• Unlimited vacation policy and 15 paid holidays.
• Paid parental and medical leave.
• Daily lunches, snacks, and beverages provided in office.
• Professional development reimbursement and monthly wellness stipend.
• Support programs including backup child/elder care and adoption/surrogacy assistance.