Vehicle Integration Engineer

Responsibilities

• Analyze vehicle hardware and networks through OEM documentation (e.g., wiring diagrams, ECU specifications) to integrate Tern’s GPS-free positioning system across diverse vehicle makes and models, ensuring compatibility with civilian and military architectures.
• Design hardware components (OBD-II/J1939 connectors, IMUs, ESP32-based systems) and contribute to PCB design, including schematic capture, layout, and validation, to support accurate CAN bus data collection for speed and heading.
• Set up manufacturing processes for US-based hardware production, ensuring scalability, quality control, and compliance with automotive standards.
• Document and design integration/installation methods (e.g., harnesses, adapters) for vehicle connection points, ensuring clarity for Tern’s hardware and software teams.
• Perform diagnostics via OBD-II (J1979) and J1939, and conduct rigorous testing to validate system performance in offline scenarios, resolving potential issues.
• Develop sensor fusion and localization algorithms for dead reckoning and map-matching, using vehicle sensor data to ensure precise positioning without GPS.
• Ensure reliable Bluetooth transmission of speed and heading data to Tern’s Android app, optimizing for low latency and data integrity.
• Assist in reverse engineering vehicle systems through manual and automated data collection to support integration and troubleshoot compatibility.
• Test and evaluate third-party products (e.g., sensors, modules) for integration, ensuring compatibility and performance.
• Execute test plans to identify adverse interactions between Tern’s system and vehicles, proposing solutions to enhance reliability.
• Resolve complex technical issues through virtual or in-person site visits for customers, including car manufacturers and government/military clients.
• Contribute to software tools for vehicle integration and stay updated on advancements in navigation, sensor technology, and automotive systems.
• Use SQL queries and Python scripts to analyze data (e.g., Google BigQuery) to assess device health and evaluate new functionality.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, Automotive Engineering, Robotics or a related field.
• Experience: 5+ years in automotive vehicle systems, including sensors, actuators, control systems, diagnostics, and electrical/communications architecture design and operation.
• Technical Skills: Proven expertise in vehicle integration using CAN bus, OBD-II (J1979), and J1939 protocols across civilian and military vehicles. Extensive experience in hardware design, PCB development (schematic design, layout, validation), and production for automotive applications. Demonstrated ability to set up and manage manufacturing pipelines, preferably in the US, with a focus on quality and scalability. Relevant experience in positioning/navigation systems, autonomous driving, or GPS-free technologies. Proficiency in vehicle diagnostics via OBD-II (J1979), J1939, and standards like KWP, UDS; familiarity with legacy systems (ISO 9141, ISO 14230, SAE J1850, J1708). Expertise in vehicle architecture, embedded systems, CAN bus protocols, and PCB design tools. Familiarity with Automotive Ethernet and Diagnostics over IP (DoIP). Proficiency in programming/debugging embedded systems, including microcontrollers (e.g., ESP32) and Bluetooth protocols. Knowledge of sensor fusion, inertial navigation, and map-matching for dead reckoning and localization.
• Soft Skills: Strong analytical skills for complex problem-solving and decision-making. Excellent verbal and written English communication to convey technical concepts to diverse stakeholders. Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic startup. Comfort working independently and collaboratively in a fully remote team across US time zones.