Software Engineer - Fail Operational Planning

As a Software Engineer - Fail Operational Planning at Zoox, you will be responsible for creating algorithmic improvements related to driving behavior and integrating these changes into our code base. Your role will also involve collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify system failure modes and devising strategies to mitigate performance degradation, ensuring the vehicle operates effectively even in challenging situations.

To qualify for the Software Engineer - Fail Operational Planning position at Zoox, you should possess a Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field, demonstrate fluency in C++, and have extensive experience with programming and algorithm design. Ideally, candidates will have at least four years of relevant experience and a solid understanding of vehicle kinematics.

A PhD in Computer Science or Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, experience in shipping commercial products like robotics or drones, and proficiency in creating real-time motion planning algorithms within a cross-functional team could significantly enhance your application for the Software Engineer - Fail Operational Planning role at Zoox.

Candidates for the Software Engineer - Fail Operational Planning role at Zoox can expect a competitive salary ranging from $180,000 to $256,000, along with Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may also be included, depending on factors like geographic location, knowledge, skills, and experience.

Zoox offers its Software Engineers in the Fail Operational Planning team a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off (such as sick leave and vacation), health and long-term care insurance, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and options for unpaid time off. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in Zoox's stock appreciation programs.

When answering this question, detail the projects you've worked on that required algorithm design, specifically focusing on the autonomous systems domain. Highlight specific algorithms you've developed, their purpose, and the impact they had on the system's performance, including any challenges and how you overcame them.

Start by discussing your methodical approach to identifying failure modes, such as using data analysis or logging to detect issues. Explain how you'd collaborate with cross-functional teams to brainstorm and implement strategies to mitigate these failures, ensuring to mention specific tools or techniques you would use.

Focus on your proficiency in C++ and any other languages relevant to the role. Discuss specific projects where you've utilized these languages, mentioning the tasks you completed and how your contributions enhanced the project's success.

Emphasize the importance of collaboration in your work by citing specific examples where you partnered with diverse teams like Hardware, Validation, or Algorithm development. Describe how effective communication and teamwork led to successful project outcomes.

Explain your knowledge of vehicle kinematics, defining key concepts such as dynamics and motion. Highlight why understanding these principles is crucial for developing algorithms that ensure smooth operation and accurate navigation of autonomous vehicles.

Discuss best practices you follow to ensure code quality, such as writing unit tests, conducting code reviews, and utilizing version control effectively. Mention any specific metrics you track to assess code maintainability.

Prepare a specific example where you encountered a technical challenge. Describe the context, the strategies you implemented to address it, and the successful outcome, emphasizing your problem-solving skills.

Share the sources you rely on for staying updated, such as industry publications, conferences, online courses, or networks. Explain your strategies for applying new knowledge to your work and discuss any recent advancements you’re excited about.

Outline your testing strategy, including the types of tests you would run (unit tests, system tests) and how you would measure success. Discuss the use of simulations and real-world validation to ensure robustness in the algorithm's performance.

Emphasize that a Software Engineer's role in enhancing customer satisfaction is vital, as the performance and safety of autonomous systems directly affect user experience. Discuss how your work impacts reliability and usability, which ultimately leads to improved customer satisfaction.