Senior Software Engineer - Planner GPU Compute

Lever, Inc.; Foster City (CA); On-site; USD 237,000 - 298,000; Full time

Job summary

Zoox seeks an expert in GPU performance to instrument, monitor, analyze and optimize GPU-based algorithms for the motion planner. You will tackle latency-critical workloads, from ML inference to custom CUDA kernels, across multiple GPU architectures.

You will collaborate with the Planner team, optimize ML models for latency and memory, and serve as a CUDA & GPU performance SME for supporting engineers. A BS plus 3+ years in relevant fields is expected, with strong C++ and Linux proficiency.

Qualifications

• BS in computer science or related field and 3+ years of experience.
• Strong knowledge of CUDA as applied to recent GPU microarchitectures (e.g., Ampere, Blackwell) and experience debugging/optimizing GPU kernels using tools like Nsight.
• Strong knowledge of C++ and experience in large code bases, comfortable in Linux development environments.
• Experience in development, debugging, and profiling of complex multiprocess systems (e.g., robotic systems, game engines).

Responsibilities

• Analyze performance metrics to identify GPU hotspots and optimizations
• Contribute to the adaptation of our current planner to multiple GPU architectures with different resources
• Optimize ML models for latency and GPU memory usage
• Support engineers within Planner as a subject matter expert on CUDA & GPU performance

Skills

CUDA knowledge

C++ expertise

Linux development

GPU performance debugging

Multiprocess systems

Education

BS in computer science or related field

Tools

Nsight

CUDA toolkit

Job description

Zoox made the world’s first purpose-built commercial robotaxi, combining advanced self-driving hardware and software. In order to ensure safe operation, low latency and consistent resource utilization are critical. The Planner Compute team is responsible for the performance of the largest single software component within the autonomy stack, the motion planner.

The Planner Compute team is looking for an expert in GPU performance. You will instrument, monitor, analyze and optimize GPU-based algorithms that are performance-critical for our solution. The scope for GPU usage ranges from machine learning inference to custom CUDA kernels written specifically for the motion planner.

In this role, you will:

• Analyze performance metrics to identify GPU hotspots and optimizations
• Contribute to the adaptation of our current planner to multiple GPU architectures with different resources
• Optimize ML models for latency and GPU memory usage
• Support engineers within Planner as a subject matter expert on CUDA & GPU performance

Qualifications

• BS in computer science or related field and 3+ years of experience.
• Strong knowledge of CUDA as applied to recent GPU microarchitectures (e.g., Ampere, Blackwell) and experience debugging/optimizing GPU kernels using tools like Nsight.
• Strong knowledge of C++ and experience in large code bases, comfortable in Linux development environments.
• Experience in development, debugging, and profiling of complex multiprocess systems (e.g., robotic systems, game engines).

Bonus Qualifications

GPU kernel development experience

$237,000 - $298,000 a year

There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign‑on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.

Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long‑term care insurance, long‑term and short‑term disability insurance, and life insurance.