Research Engineer Intern - Mapping & Localization

Plus 2; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 48,216; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free lunch

Snacks and beverages

401(k) plan

Competitive salary

Job summary

PlusAI in Silicon Valley is seeking a Summer Intern to help design and implement an automated, end-to-end Map Change Detection Pipeline for HD LiDAR maps powering our autonomous trucks.

You will process data from our active testing fleet, compare it with base maps, and help distinguish permanent changes from daily clutter, enabling safe, scalable map updates.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics or related field.
• Proven project involvement in LiDAR-based localization and mapping within autonomous vehicles or robotics.
• Deep understanding of sensor fusion with LiDAR, GPS, IMU and camera data.
• Solid experience in C++ and ROS.
• Strong communication across multidisciplinary teams, including non-technical members.
• Nice-to-have: Gaussian splatting/NeRF experience.
• Nice-to-have: Deep learning techniques for localization and mapping.

Responsibilities

• LiDAR Algorithm Development: design, develop, and optimize LiDAR-based localization and mapping algorithms.
• Map Support: refine online and offline map generation algorithms to improve localization precision.
• Map Interface Enhancement: improve LiDAR map interface and manage map versions.
• Sensor Fusion Development: merge LiDAR data with GPS, IMU, and cameras for real-time mapping.
• Grow within the team by taking on more complex projects.

Skills

LiDAR localization

Sensor fusion

C++

ROS

Communication

Gaussian splatting

Deep learning for localization

Education

MS or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics

Tools

C++

ROS

Job description

PlusAI is a Physical AI company pioneering AI-based virtual driver software for factory-built autonomous trucks. Headquartered in Silicon Valley with operations in the United States and Europe, Plus was named by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies. Partners including TRATON GROUP’s Scania, MAN, and International brands, Hyundai Motor Company, Iveco Group, Bosch, and DSV are working with Plus to accelerate the deployment of next-generation autonomous trucks. If you’re ready to make a huge impact and drive the future of autonomy, Plus is looking for talented individuals to join its fast-growing teams.

Our Localization & Mapping team is responsible for ensuring our autonomous vehicles always know precisely where they are and what the world around them looks like. High-definition (HD) LiDAR maps are the foundation of this safety, but the real world changes constantly—roads get repaved, construction zones appear overnight, and new buildings reshape the horizon.

As a Summer Intern, you will contribute to the design and implementation of an automated, end-to-end Map Change Detection Pipeline. Your mission will be to process incoming data from our active testing fleet, compare it against our base HD maps, and isolate permanent structural changes from daily clutter (like parked cars or pedestrians). This pipeline will directly drive our automated map-updating engine, keeping our fleet safe and scalable.

Responsibilities

• LiDAR Algorithm Development: Design, develop, and optimize cutting‑edge LiDAR‑based localization and mapping algorithms to enhance the autonomy of vehicles.
• Map Support: Refine both online and offline map generation algorithms to improve and sustain localization precision.
• Map Interface Enhancement: Advance the functionality and user experience of the LiDAR map interface, focusing on robust management of various map versions.
• Sensor Fusion Development: Skillfully merge LiDAR data with other sensory inputs (e.g., GPS, IMU, cameras) to devise integrated real‑time mapping and localization solutions.
• Continue to grow within the team, taking on more complex projects and pushing the boundaries of autonomous vehicle technology.

Qualifications

• Education: MS or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related discipline.
• Technical Experience: Proven project involvement in LiDAR‑based localization and mapping within autonomous vehicles or robotics.
• Sensor Fusion Expertise: Deep understanding of integrating various sensors like LiDAR, GPS, IMU, and camera data.
• Software Proficiency: Solid experience in C++ and ROS.
• Communication: Exceptional ability to communicate complex technical details effectively across multidisciplinary teams and concepts to non‑technical team members.
• Experience with Gaussian splatting/NeRF is a plus.
• Experience with deep learning techniques applied to localization and mapping is a plus.

Benefits

• Work, learn and grow in a highly future‑oriented, innovative, and dynamic field.
• Wide range of opportunities for personal and professional development.
• Catered free lunch, unlimited snacks and beverages.
• Highly competitive salary and benefits package, including a 401(k) plan.