Principal Engineer, DSP

re-zoo-me; Stamford (CT); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work environment

Employee discounts on Harman brands

Harman University training

Wellness benefits

Job summary

HARMAN Automotive is seeking an embedded software engineer to design, develop, and integrate advanced automotive audio solutions. You will work across the full software lifecycle to deliver high‑quality audio systems and DSP algorithms on Qualcomm platforms and other SoCs.

You will port and optimize audio DSP routines, integrate third‑party solutions, and validate performance metrics such as latency, THD, and frequency response.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related fields.
• At least 3 years of embedded software development experience.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming.
• Hands-on experience in audio embedded systems including I2S/TDM, DSP processing, fixed‑point and floating‑point implementations.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate automotive audio software components using C/C++.
• Deliver complete audio solutions including Branded Audio (BA) and Noise Management (RNC, Engine Order Cancellation, ESS/EVSE).
• Integrate HARMAN audio solutions on Qualcomm platforms using AudioReach, AMS, and AWE frameworks.
• Perform audio algorithm porting and optimization across DSP and heterogeneous compute platforms (Hexagon, HiFi, ARM, SHARC, x86).
• Integrate third‑party audio and DSP solutions such as Cerence, Arkamys, and AWEinto the HARMAN platform.
• Develop and validate customer audio solutions, including signal flow design and audio performance tuning (latency, THD, frequency response).
• Build and maintain reference audio platforms on emulators and target SoCs.
• Adapt audio frameworks into Android and QNX IVI systems (AudioManager, Audio HAL, ALSA).
• Conduct feasibility studies, PoC development, and support proposals for customer projects.
• Collaborate with global teams including PM, Hardware, QA, Manufacturing, and suppliers.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Embedded software

Audio systems

Debugging

English communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering

Tools

AudioReach

AMS

AWE

Qualcomm Hexagon DSP

I2S/TDM drivers

Job description

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

About The Role

This position is part of HARMAN’s Software as a Product organization, focused on delivering end-to-end automotive audio solutions

The role involves designing, developing, and integrating HARMAN branded audio (BA) and Noise Management (NM) solutions (RNC, EOC, ESS/EVSE) on Qualcomm (e.g., SA8797/SA8255) and other SoC platforms, leveraging modern audio frameworks such as AudioReach, AMS, and AWE

You will work across the full software lifecycle—from requirement analysis to system integration—contributing to production programs for global OEM customers

What You Will Do

• Design, develop, and integrate automotive audio software components using C/C++
• Deliver complete audio solutions including Branded Audio (BA) and Noise Management (RNC, Engine Order Cancellation, ESS/EVSE)
• Integrate HARMAN audio solutions on Qualcomm platforms (SA8797, SA8255) using AudioReach, AMS, and AWE frameworks.
• Perform audio algorithm porting and optimization across DSP and heterogeneous compute platforms, including Qualcomm Hexagon (aDSP/mDSP), Tensilica HiFi series, ARM, SHARC, and x86
• Integrate third-party audio and DSP solutions such as Cerence, Arkamys, and AWE into the HARMAN platform
• Develop and validate customer audio solutions, including signal flow design and audio performance tuning covering latency, THD, and frequency response
• Build and maintain reference audio platforms on both emulators and target SoCs
• Adapt and integrate audio frameworks into Android and QNX IVI systems, including AudioManager, Audio HAL, and ALSA
• Conduct feasibility studies, proof-of-concept development, and support technical proposals for customer projects
• Collaborate closely with global cross-functional teams including Program Management, Hardware, QA, Manufacturing, and suppliers
• Lead or actively participate in technical discussions with global teams and customers

What You Need To Be Successful

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related fields
• At least 3 years of embedded software development experience.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming
• Hands‑on experience in audio embedded systems including audio drivers such as I2S and TDM, DSP processing with fixed‑point and floating‑point implementation, and audio frameworks
• Familiarity with Qualcomm audio architecture is preferred, especially AudioReach and Hexagon DSP
• Solid debugging capability and system‑level troubleshooting experience
• Experience in performance optimization including MIPS, MCPS, and memory usage
• Familiarity with lab instruments such as oscilloscopes, Audio Precision analyzers, and signal generators
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical topics clearly and concisely
• Good English communication skills

Bonus Points if You Have

• Extensive experience (8–10 years or more) in automotive audio or embedded DSP development
• Experience working with real‑time operating systems
• Strong background in DSP platforms including Qualcomm Hexagon, Tensilica HiFi, TI C66, or ADI SHARC/SigmaDSP
• Knowledge of audio signal processing such as FFT, filter design, ASRC, and ANC/RNC algorithms
• Experience with automotive audio interfaces including TDM, I2S, PDM, A2B, AVB, and SPDIF
• Familiarity with Audio Weaver (AWE) or similar signal flow tools.
• Knowledge of Automotive SPICE development processes
• Experience supporting global OEM or Tier 1 automotive programs

What Makes You Eligible

• You have a working knowledge of English
• You are willing to travel, if necessary
• Due to the nature of global infrastructure, you understand that flexibility in working hours is required
• You can obtain a government security clearance; You are eligible to work in China

What We Offer

• Flexible work environment
• Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.)
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
• Competitive wellness benefits
• Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria
• “Be Brilliant” employee recognition and rewards program
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development

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.

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)