Principal Engineer, Audio System Validation Specialist

HARMAN International; Novi (MI); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 184,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

HARMAN University training

Wellness benefits

Tuition reimbursement

Be Brilliant program

Inclusive culture

Hybrid work three days in office

Job summary

HARMAN Automotive in Novi, Michigan is seeking an Audio System Validation Specialist to serve as the technical authority for System Trust. You will lead cross‑domain DSP and system integrity investigations, evolve validation methodologies, and mentor engineers during critical phases.

The role requires 10+ years in DSP, audio processing, and embedded constraints, with a degree in Sound Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Signal Processing.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in DSP algorithms, audio processing, and embedded constraints.
• Bachelor's or master's in Sound Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Signal Processing or equivalent.
• Experience diagnosing complex issues across software and system layers.
• Ability to lead others and influence cross-disciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve System Trust validation methodologies and standards.
• Lead resolution of complex DSP and system integrity issues.
• Evaluate architectural decisions for performance and integrity risks.
• Design scalable regression protection and automation frameworks.
• Mentor team members in DSP validation techniques.

Skills

DSP algorithms

Audio processing

Embedded performance

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

System integrity

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Sound Eng. / Electrical Eng. / Signal Processing

Job description

Introduction: A Career at HARMAN Automotive

We’re a global, multi-disciplinary team that’s putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.

• Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience
• Combine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence
• Advance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoyment

What You'll Be Part Of

As an Audio System Validation Specialist, you are the technical authority for System Trust within a group that defines the future of technology for car audio. You'll lead complex root-cause investigations, set and evolve validation methodologies, and influence architectural decisions to prevent integrity risks at scale. Working independently across Domain and Cross Brand initiatives, you'll mentor others and serve as the technical escalation point during critical phases.

How You'll Make An Impact

• Define and evolve System Trust validation methodologies and technical standards
• Lead resolution of complex, cross-domain DSP and system-level integrity issues
• Evaluate architectural decisions for potential performance and integrity risks
• Design scalable regression protection strategies and automation frameworks
• Interpret business and performance trade-offs while protecting non-negotiable integrity boundaries
• Mentor team members in advanced DSP validation techniques and analytical reasoning
• Drive cross-functional collaboration to resolve systemic technical risks
• Act as technical authority during critical development and pre-release validation phases

What Makes You A Strong Fit

• Deep expertise (10+ years) in DSP algorithms, audio processing systems, and embedded performance constraints
• Academic background with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Sound Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Signal Processing or equivalent
• Extensive experience diagnosing complex technical issues across software and system layers
• Strong understanding of architectural trade-offs and scalability considerations
• Demonstrated ability to lead others in solving complex technical problems
• Experience influencing cross-disciplinary teams in technically challenging environments
• Ability to interpret business drivers while maintaining integrity standards

Bonus Points if You Have

• Experience designing large-scale automated validation frameworks
• Background in real-time embedded or automotive systems
• Experience working in cross-brand or platform-based product organizations
• Exposure to psychoacoustic implications of system-level design decisions
• Experience mentoring or acting as technical lead in complex projects
• Valid driver's license
• Proficiency in on site native language

Things To Know

• Willingness to travel up to 10%, domestic and international travel
• Willingness to work in a hybrid office environment at our Novi, MI location, requiring a minimum of 3 days per week in office.
• Successfully complete a background investigation and drug screen as a condition of employment

What We Offer

• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman and Samsung products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.)
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
• Competitive wellness benefits
• Tuition reimbursement
• “Be Brilliant” employee recognition and rewards program
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development
• A hybrid work environment that balances flexibility with in-person collaboration, with most office-based roles onsite three days a week.

Pay Transparency

$ 125,250 - $ 183,700

Dependent on the position offered, other forms of compensation are also available, such as bonuses or commission.

Pay is based on a wide range of factors, including, without limitation, skill set, experience, training, location, and business need. While the above range is a reasonable estimate of the wage range for this position, please note the disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographical differential associated with the location where the position may be filled.

Benefits

HARMAN is interested in the health and wellbeing of you and your family and offers a range of benefits designed to support your needs for holistic wellbeing. Benefits and perks may vary depending on the nature of your employment with HARMAN, and may include paid vacation and holidays, paid sick leave, volunteer leave, and paid bonding and care giver leave. Employees may also be eligible to participate in comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, fertility support and adoption assistance, Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan with employer match, short and long term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

You Belong Here

HARMAN is committed to making every employee feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. No matter what role you play, we encourage you to share your ideas, voice your distinct perspective, and bring your whole self with you – all within a support-minded culture that celebrates what makes each of us unique. We also recognize that learning is a lifelong pursuit and want you to flourish. We proudly offer added opportunities for training, development, and continuing education, further empowering you to live the career you want.

About HARMAN: Where Innovation Unleashes Next-Level Technology

Ever since the 1920s, we’ve been amplifying the sense of sound. Today, that legacy endures, with integrated technology platforms that make the world smarter, safer, and more connected.

Across automotive, lifestyle, and digital transformation solutions, we create innovative technologies that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Our renowned automotive and lifestyle solutions can be found everywhere, from the music we play in our cars and homes to venues that feature today’s most sought-after performers, while our digital transformation solutions serve humanity by addressing the world’s ever-evolving needs and demands. Marketing our award-winning portfolio under 16 iconic brands, such as JBL, Mark Levinson, and Revel, we set ourselves apart by exceeding the highest engineering and design standards for our customers, our partners and each other.

If you’re ready to innovate and do work that makes a lasting impact, join our talent community today!

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. HARMAN strives to hire the best qualified candidates and is committed to building a workforce representative of the diverse marketplaces and communities of our global colleagues and customers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. HARMAN attracts, hires, and develops employees based on merit, qualifications and job-related performance.(www.harman.com)