Contract Engineer, Advanced Engineering & Research

Job Summary

Supports verification and validation of Level 4 autonomous driving technologies and robotic systems using state-of-the-art approaches and methodologies such as generative AI, vision-language-action models and world models. Works closely with Isuzu US and Japan teams, well-known external autonomous driving partner companies, and reputed research institutes on the validation and deployment of autonomous systems. Works at the intersection of vehicle engineering and cutting-edge autonomous technology within a collaborative and passionate environment. Works with direction from manager and guidance from more senior staff.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborates with global ISUZU teams and research partners to deploy generative AI and state-of-the-art methods to validate L4 autonomous driving technologies and robotic systems.
• Analyzes open source and on-road driving data and use data-driven insights to enhance simulations.
• Supports simulation of edge case scenarios to test and validate AV systems.
• Participates in cross-functional discussions and contributes ideas toward improving safety and reliability of AV systems.
• Prepares and communicates findings and technical updates to internal and external research teams across the U.S. and Japan.

Organizational Relationships

Reports to: Manager, Autonomous Driving & MBD

Education, Experience & Training

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Data Science or related field
• Minimum one (1) year of prior internship or project experience in AI, VLM, world models, data analysis, programming, or automotive systems

Knowledge

• Foundational understanding of data analysis, statistics, or simulation
• Basic knowledge of autonomous driving or vehicle safety systems is a plus

Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong in Python, C++, or Java
• Proficient with simulation and machine learning / reinforcement learning tools
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Able to work independently and collaboratively within a team

Physical Standards

• The employee must be able to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer.
• This is primarily a sedentary position in a controlled office environment which requires only occasional reaching, stooping, and lifting of office files, reports or records, typically weighing 5 lbs. or less.
• Requires occasional light lifting (5-25 lbs) and on rare occasions, heavy lifting (60 lbs).
• Must be able on rare occasions to bend, crawl, climb, crouch, kneel and reach above shoulder level in the performance of job duties.
• Must be able to work in hot and cold weather extremes.