Principal Software Engineer - Autonomous Vehicles

$272,000 - $419,750/Yr

Nvidia - Santa Clara, CA

Full-time - Senior

Santa Clara, CA

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Principal Software Engineer for Autonomous Vehicles at Nvidia will lead the development of algorithms and engineering solutions for the DRIVE Road structure and Online mapping team. This role focuses on creating a comprehensive 3D world model that integrates map and perception signals, enabling autonomous driving in complex environments. The position requires collaboration with perception and planning teams to enhance navigation capabilities in challenging scenarios across various geographies.

Responsibilities

• Develop core functionality for autonomous driving based on the fusion of perception DNN and map signals.
• Generate real-time 3D world models utilized by planning, incorporating inputs from sensors and external sources.
• Enable HD mapless driving in complex urban scenarios by creating enriched BEV models.
• Build fused static obstacles and occupancy grids, and create occlusion masks to enhance AV scenarios.
• Provide technology leadership and guidance to the team on solving complex AV problems.
• Hire and mentor strong engineers within the team.
• Ensure algorithms perform well on large datasets in diverse environments and conditions.
• Produce code and designs that adhere to automotive quality and safety standards.

Requirements

• BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science or related fields or equivalent experience.
• 12+ years of experience, with at least 5+ years in the AV or robotics industry.
• 3+ years of experience technically leading teams.
• Passion for robotics and autonomous vehicles.
• Drive to learn new things and tackle meaningful problems.
• Outstanding communication and cross-team collaboration skills, especially with multinational teams.
• Independent and analytical software engineering skills.
• Software development experience on embedded or automotive platforms.

Nice-to-haves

• Background in 3D geometry, computer vision, sensor calibration, or state estimation algorithms like Kalman filters and particle filters.
• Significant industry experience in the AV area, especially with self-driving cars.
• Experience developing real-time Computer Vision systems.
• Strong API and framework design skills.

Benefits

• Equity options
• Comprehensive health insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Flexible work hours
• Professional development opportunities