Sr Software Engineer, Embedded Machine Learning

We are CARIAD, an automotive software development team with the Volkswagen Group. Our mission is to make the automotive experience safer, more sustainable, more comfortable, more digital, and more fun. We’re building the leading tech stack for the industry and creating a unified software platform for over 10 million new vehicles per year. Join us as we shape the future of the car and everyone around it.

The Sr Software Engineer, Embedded Machine Learning is responsible for designing, optimizing, and deploying machine learning models on high‑performance embedded hardware platforms. This role focuses on translating models from training environments into production‑ready implementations on embedded ML accelerators, including efficient architecture selection, quantization, runtime performance analysis, and functional validation. The engineer works independently on complex technical problems and collaborates closely with software, hardware, and systems teams to ensure reliable, real‑time performance of machine learning workloads in production embedded systems.

• Design, train, and optimize machine learning models for execution on embedded ML accelerators
• Quantize and convert models from training frameworks to embedded runtime environments
• Analyze and optimize runtime performance to meet real‑time and hardware constraints
• Develop and maintain production‑quality code and artifacts supporting deployment on embedded systems

• Verify functional correctness and performance of deployed models on target hardware
• Debug and resolve performance and accuracy issues across the deployment pipeline
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate models into embedded systems
• Support deployed models in production, including performance monitoring, issue triage, and iterative improvement

• Contribute to continuous improvement of machine learning workflows, tools, and best practices
• Share technical knowledge and lessons learned with peers
• Document model behavior, performance characteristics, and deployment considerations to support collaboration and long‑term maintainability

• 6+ years of experience in machine learning, embedded systems, or performance‑critical software development
• Production experience deploying and optimizing ML models on embedded or constrained hardware platforms

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering

• Master’s degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills applied to complex, real‑time systems
• Ability to work independently on complex technical problems with limited supervision
• Clear written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with cross‑functional partners
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to production‑quality outcomes
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and share knowledge with peers

• Training modern machine learning networks, including transformer‑based architectures, for high‑performance embedded hardware accelerators
• Quantization, deployment, and optimization of models for production embedded systems
• Profiling, debugging, and optimizing runtime performance of machine learning workloads on embedded accelerators
• Supporting machine learning models through deployment, validation, and iterative improvement on target hardware

• Experience with Qualcomm Hexagon NPUs
• Experience working in ADAS or automotive embedded systems environments

• Some on‑site work with embedded hardware required, driving test car

Salary range in Mountain View, CA is $149,350 – $215,785.

CARIAD, Inc. provides performance‑based merits, an annual bonus, and a competitive benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with employer match, defined‑contribution plan, short- and long‑term disability, basic life and AD&D insurance, an employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, student‑loan repayment plans, maternity and non‑primary caregiver leave, adoption assistance, a referral program, and vacation with paid holidays. A unique vehicle lease program covers registration and insurance fees.

CARIAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.