Systems Engineer, Behavioral Requirements

As a Systems Engineer at Waymo, your primary responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and align system requirements that focus on safety and regulatory compliance. You'll analyze and gather critical data to create metrics for system evaluation, maintain precise documentation of system designs, and drive discussions around design trade-offs, ensuring a collaborative approach to engineering.

To become a Systems Engineer at Waymo, candidates need a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field such as Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Robotics. It's essential to demonstrate an ability to tackle technical challenges, exhibit strong data analysis skills, and possess proficiency in technical documentation, with experience in tools like Python or MATLAB being a plus.

Waymo ensures safety and performance by setting high performance standards throughout the systems engineering process. The team collaborates closely to craft requirements that meet stringent safety regulations and product needs, and engages in rigorous testing and validation to ensure these standards are consistently met across all systems.

As a Systems Engineer at Waymo, familiarity with data analysis and statistical tools like Python or MATLAB is crucial. Experience with large-scale system architecture, integrating hardware and software in safety-critical environments, and knowledge of machine learning models for system optimization are also highly valued.

The work culture for a Systems Engineer at Waymo is collaborative, innovative, and driven by a mission-oriented approach. Teamwork is highly emphasized, with efforts made to ensure alignment among different stakeholders, fostering an environment that supports sharing ideas and problem-solving in a dynamic manner.

When answering this question, focus on a specific problem, the approach you took to analyze it, the solutions you proposed, and the impact it had on the project or team. Highlight your technical skills and the collaboration involved, demonstrating how you contributed to the success of your team.

Discuss your method for prioritizing tasks, such as assessing project impact, deadlines, and resource availability. Emphasize the importance of communication with your team and stakeholders to ensure alignment on priorities while maintaining a clear focus on project goals.

Detail your experience writing clear and concise technical documentation. Mention the types of documents you have created and how they supported project outcomes. Share examples that illustrate your ability to present complex information effectively to diverse audiences.

Explain the tools and methods you utilize for data analysis, such as statistical software or programming languages. Discuss how you identify meaningful metrics, analyze data trends, and use insights to influence system design decisions effectively.

Provide a specific instance where you led a cross-functional initiative, highlighting your leadership style, how you coordinated between various teams, and the outcome of the project. Emphasize collaboration and strategies used to achieve stakeholder engagement.

Share your methods for staying informed on the latest trends in systems engineering, such as attending industry conferences, reading journals, contributing to online forums, or participating in professional organizations. This showcases your commitment to professional growth and staying relevant.

Discuss your experience in integrating hardware and software systems, particularly in safety-critical environments. Highlight specific projects, the challenges you faced, and how you ensured compatibility and optimal performance in these integrations.

Explain your process for evaluating different design options and trade-offs, focusing on safety, efficiency, and regulatory requirements. Describe how you facilitate discussions with stakeholders to ensure that all viewpoints are considered and integrated into the final design decisions.

Discuss strategies you employ to foster clarity and collaboration, such as regular check-ins, establishing open lines of communication, and creating a culture of feedback. Emphasize the importance of teamwork and shared goals in achieving high-quality engineering output.

This is an opportunity to express your passion for autonomous technology and innovation. Discuss how Waymo's mission to enhance mobility aligns with your professional goals and values, and why you believe your background and skills make you a perfect fit for the team.