Sr. Staff Autonomy Sensor Engineer

Rivian • Palo Alto, CA

1d

About The Position

Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract.
As a company, we constantly challenge what’s possible, never simply accepting what has always been done. We reframe old problems, seek new solutions and operate comfortably in areas that are unknown. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our team shares a love of the outdoors and a desire to protect it for future generations.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced candidate to help lead the state-of-the-art RADAR systems for next-generation autonomy. This role requires deep expertise in advanced RADAR architectures with a rounded hardware, software and system design expertise. As the lead, you will be responsible for defining the technology roadmap, leading cross-functional teams, and ensuring the seamless integration of RADAR perception into autonomy stacks.

Requirements

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in RADAR system design, including hardware, firmware, and signal processing.
• Strong proficiency in RF and microwave engineering & digital signal processing (DSP).
• Experience with DSP simulation, modeling, and validation tools such as MATLAB, Python, or C++
• Hands-on experience with embedded systems and real-time RADAR data processing.
• Familiarity with sensor fusion techniques, integrating RADAR with LiDAR, cameras, and IMUs.
• Proven track record of leading technical teams and delivering high-impact projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of high-resolution RADAR systems for autonomous perception, with a deep understanding of the state of the art RADARs and the trade-offs in different approaches to the solution.
• Define and drive technical requirements, system architecture, and performance benchmarks.
• Define and drive performance characterization, including electrical, RF, mechanical and thermal.
• Drive productization cycle, including prototypes, design validation builds, module verification / validation, regulatory certifications for large volume production.
• Work closely with hardware, firmware, and signal processing teams to ensure optimal integration of RADAR sensors into the autonomy perception stack.
• Optimize real-time RADAR processing pipelines to achieve ultra-low latency and high accuracy in dynamic environments.
• Evaluate and implement state-of-the-art signal processing techniques, including MIMO, beamforming, and sensor fusion.
• Collaborate with AI/ML teams to develop and deploy deep learning models for RADAR-based perception tasks.
• Guide and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers, fostering innovation and technical excellence.
• Drive research and development efforts to stay ahead of industry trends and advancements in RADAR technology.
• Coordinate with external partners, suppliers, and research institutions to leverage cutting-edge technologies

Benefits

• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including but not limited to paid vacation, paid sick leave, and a competitive portfolio of insurance benefits including life, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance to eligible employees.
• You may also have the opportunity to participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet certain eligibility requirements.
• Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment.
• Part-time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment.
• More information about benefits is available at rivianbenefits.com.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior