Contract Engineer, Advanced Engineering & Research

ISUZU NORTH AMERICA CORPORATION; Plymouth (MI); On-site; USD 60,614 - 66,124; Full time

Job summary

ISUZU NORTH AMERICA CORPORATION is seeking an Entry-level position in Plymouth, MI, focusing on validating autonomous driving technologies. This role involves collaboration with global teams and using state-of-the-art methodologies in a dynamic environment.

Ideal candidates will have a Master's degree in a relevant field and prior experience in AI or automotive systems. Strong analytical and programming skills in Python, C++, or Java are essential for this role, which also involves working closely with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree preferred in a technical field.
• Minimum one year of relevant internship or project experience.
• Basic knowledge of autonomous driving systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with global teams on AI validation methods.
• Analyze driving data to enhance simulations.
• Support testing and validating autonomous systems.
• Participate in discussions on AV safety improvements.
• Prepare findings for U.S. and Japan research teams.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Python

C++

Java

Machine learning tools

Reinforcement learning tools

Education

Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Job description

Job Details

Level: Entry

Location: Plymouth - Plymouth, MI 48170

Salary Range: $44.00 - $48.00 Hourly

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

• 30% – Collaborates with global ISUZU teams and research partnership to deploy generative AI and state-of-the-art methods to validate L4 autonomous driving technologies and robotic systems.
• 20% – Analyzes open source and on‑road driving data and uses data‑driven insights to enhance simulations.
• 20% – Supports simulation of edge‑case scenarios to test and validate AV systems.
• 20% – Participates in cross‑functional discussions and contributes ideas toward improving safety and reliability of AV systems.
• 10% – Prepares and communicates findings and technical updates to internal and external research teams across the U.S. and Japan.
• Miscellaneous job‑related duties as assigned.

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 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.
• Ability 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.