Principal Hardware Engineer, Radar Systems

Motional; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); Hybrid; USD 176,000 - 242,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) with company match

Health savings accounts

Life insurance

Pet insurance

Job summary

Motional is looking for a Principal Hardware Engineer for Radar Components to lead the development of cutting-edge radar technology in Pittsburgh. You will own radar design from concept to production, drive integration efforts, and manage supplier relationships.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of relevant automotive experience, strong technical skills in radar hardware, and a Bachelor's degree in Engineering. The position offers a hybrid work environment and comprehensive benefits including health insurance and a 401(k) plan.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in the automotive or related industry.
• Comfortable working within design, integration, and time constraints.
• Hands-on vehicle integration experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical supplier management and coordinate activities.
• Compile and maintain sets of requirements for radar components.
• Support testing for ML-based algorithms and drive vehicle integrations.

Skills

Understanding of radar hardware

Experience in automotive radar components

Debugging electrical and mechanical systems

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (STEM)

Job description

Mission Summary

Our Component Engineering Team in Pittsburgh is seeking a Principal Hardware Engineer for Radar Components to lead the development of next‑generation radar technology powering advanced mobility systems. In this role, you’ll take ownership of radar component design from concept to production, defining requirements, selecting and managing suppliers, integrating systems, driving testing and validation, resolving issues, and ensuring production readiness.

This is an onsite, hybrid position based in Pittsburgh, PA.

What you'll be doing:

• Lead technical supplier management, coordinating technical activities and project milestones across internal and external stakeholders.
• Compile, define, and maintain complete sets of requirements for radar components.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Perception, Systems, Mechanical, Vehicle, Manufacturing, Quality, Software, Cybersecurity, Diagnostics, and Reliability teams.
• Develop and support testing for ML‑based algorithms, including test design, planning, execution, and data collection.
• Lead radar acceptance, performance, and characterization testing to ensure robust system performance.
• Support and drive vehicle integration efforts for radar systems.
• Conduct root cause analysis and oversee issue resolution to maintain quality and reliability.
• Lead continuous improvement projects focused on radar components and processes.

What we're looking for:

• Deep understanding of radar hardware, radar DSP, and radar testing and performance.
• Proven experience developing automotive radar components and radar system design.
• 5+ years of experience in the automotive or a related industry.
• Experience with multi‑domain controllers, secure gateways, or ADAS controller development.
• Comfortable debugging, disassembling, modifying, and installing electrical and mechanical systems in vehicles.
• Strong ability to operate within rigid design, integration, and time constraints.
• Basic knowledge of vehicle electrical and networking systems (CAN, LIN, Ethernet, etc.).
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate globally across teams and levels to drive project success.
• Self‑motivated, organized, and flexible individual with the ability to balance and prioritize multiple diverse projects.
• Creative and resourceful problem‑solver who ensures quality results independently and in teams.
• Hands‑on vehicle integration experience, including wiring harnesses and packaging, is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (STEM) or a related field.

The role may require the use of power tools, as defined by OSHA (electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel, hydraulic, or powder‑actuated tools). While performing job duties, employees may be required to convey and detect communication, remain stationary for up to 50% of the time, move within designated areas, and operate office equipment. The role may occasionally involve moving objects up to 50 pounds.

Salary Range: $176,000 – $242,000 USD

Motional’s benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with a company match, health savings accounts, life insurance, pet insurance, and more.

Motional AD Inc. is an EOE. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. To comply with Federal Law, we participate in E‑Verify. All newly‑hired employees are queried through this electronic system established by the DHS and the SSA to verify their identity and employment eligibility.