Engineering Manager, ML Data - Prediction & Behavior ML

The Prediction & Behavior ML team is responsible for developing machine-learned models that understand the full scene around our vehicle and forecast the behavior for other agents, our own vehicle’s actions, and for offline applications. To solve these problems we develop deep learning algorithms that can learn behaviors from data and apply them on-vehicle to influence our vehicle’s driving behavior and offline to provide learned models to autonomy simulation and validation. Given the tight integration of behavior forecasting and motion planning, our team necessarily works very closely with the Planner team in the advancement of our overall vehicle behavior. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Engineering Manager to lead our ML data optimization team. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the design, development, and implementation of data optimization strategies that drive efficiency and performance across our data infrastructure. You will collaborate closely with Perception, Simulation, and Systems Engineering teams on many cross-team initiatives. 

In this role, you will:

• Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and grow a team of machine learning engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Strategy Development: Develop and implement strategies to optimize data storage, retrieval, and processing, ensuring the efficient use of resources and improving system performance. You’ll be setting the short and long term technical direction for the team and collaborate on the broader company-wide directions.
• Technical Oversight: Provide technical guidance and leadership in the design and implementation of data optimization solutions, including database tuning, query optimization, and data pipeline efficiency.
• Performance Monitoring: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of optimization strategies and drive continuous improvement.
• Resource Management: Manage the allocation of resources within the team, ensuring that projects are staffed appropriately and that team members have the necessary tools and support to succeed.

Qualifications

• Fluency in C++ or Fluency in Python with a basic understanding of C++
• Extensive experience with programming and algorithm design, strong mathematics skills
• BS, MS, or PhD degree in computer science or related field
• 5+ years of experience with production Machine Learning pipelines, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
• Proficiency with SQL, NoSQL databases, ETL processes, and big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark). Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure is highly desirable.

Bonus Qualifications

• Conference or Journal publications in Machine Learning or Robotics related venues
• Prior experience with Prediction and/or autonomous vehicles or robotics in general
• Prior experience in managing engineers and building a team and proven ability to lead and motivate a team, with a track record of delivering successful data optimization projects.
• Expertise in building and maintaining ML pipelines at scale
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and execute methodically.

Compensation and BenefitsThere 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 $240,000 to $266,000. 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.