Tech Lead Manager, Core Middleware Components

As a Tech Lead Manager of the Core Robotics Middleware APIs team at Zoox, you will lead a team of engineers while maintaining significant hands-on technical contribution in developing the middleware framework for our autonomous vehicle software stack. This role requires a unique balance of technical expertise, hands-on coding, and people management skills. You'll be expected to spend approximately 50% of your time on direct technical contribution including coding, design, and implementation, while also building and developing a high-performing team that delivers robust, scalable, and safety-critical software solutions.
This position demands strong technical background in robotic middleware systems and real-time computing, coupled with proven people management experience. You'll actively participate in technical implementation while guiding team direction and fostering individual growth. Your ability to translate strategic objectives into actionable plans, while maintaining technical excellence through personal contribution, will be crucial for success.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of 3+ software engineers, providing career growth opportunities, performance feedback, and mentorship
• Maintain significant hands-on technical contribution (50% of time) including coding, debugging, and implementing core middleware framework
• Drive technical strategy and architecture decisions for the robotics middleware platform while ensuring alignment with organizational goals
• Build and maintain strong cross-functional relationships, representing the team in technical forums and architecture review boards
• Manage team execution, including sprint planning, resource allocation, and delivery of high-quality solutions on schedule
• Lead by example through direct technical contribution while establishing engineering best practices and technical standards
• Balance coding and implementation work with people management responsibilities, ensuring both personal technical excellence and team growth

Qualifications

• 8+ years of software development experience with 1+ years of people management experience
• Strong technical background in C++ and distributed systems development
• Experience leading teams in developing complex software systems, preferably in robotics or autonomous systems
• Proven track record of delivering complex software systems through both personal implementation and team leadership
• Proven ability to translate strategic objectives into actionable technical plans
• Experience in building inclusive teams and fostering a collaborative engineering culture

CompensationThere are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. The salary range for this position is $217,000 to $273,000. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. 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.

About ZooxZoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
Follow us on LinkedIn
AccommodationsIf you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com or your assigned recruiter.
A Final Note:You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.