Senior Software Engineer (Performance)

TL;DR

Senior Software Engineer (Performance): Architecting and implementing high-performance software solutions for autonomous driving systems with an accent on C++/CUDA optimization, heterogeneous computing, and AI model deployment. Focus on squeezing maximum efficiency out of on-vehicle compute resources to ensure deterministic, real-time vehicle reactions.

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

• Architect and implement software solutions scaling from lab prototypes to customer-facing production systems.
• Optimize C++/CUDA algorithms for PyTorch models using parallel programming and smart data structures.
• Develop infrastructure and tools to evaluate and optimize AI model performance on embedded platforms.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate algorithms across the autonomy stack.
• Drive projects end-to-end while maintaining high standards for safety and code quality.

Requirements

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis.
• Bachelor's degree in a technical field with 4+ years of experience (or Master's with 2+ years, or PhD).
• Expertise in GPU/DSP architecture and heterogeneous computing.
• Fluency in modern C++ and Python (PyTorch, numpy, pandas).
• Strong understanding of AI deployment flows on embedded platforms.
• Experience writing performance-critical, production-quality code.

Nice to have

• Master’s or PhD in Robotics, ECE, or Computer Science.
• Experience with model compression, quantization, pruning, and kernel fusion.
• Knowledge of perception data flows and autonomous vehicle software stacks.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA options.
• Employer-matched 401(k) plan with immediate vesting.
• Unlimited vacation policy and 15 paid holidays.
• Professional development reimbursement and wellness stipends.
• Support programs including backup child/elder care and adoption/surrogacy assistance.