Staff Behavior Planning Engineer, Autonomous Driving
Lucid Motors is seeking a Staff Behavior Planning Engineer to join its Autonomous Driving team in Newark, CA. This role focuses on developing advanced behavior planning algorithms that enhance the safety and intelligence of Lucid's autonomous and assisted driving systems. The position requires on-site presence five days a week.
The engineer will be responsible for designing, prototyping, testing, and deploying state-of-the-art behavior planning algorithms. Key tasks include developing decision-making frameworks, trajectory and route planning, and optimization-based planning. Collaboration with perception, controls, localization, and systems teams is essential to ensure robust integration of planning software. Additionally, the role involves supporting validation and verification of behavior planning components through simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and on-road testing environments.
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience. A minimum of two years of professional experience or a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline is required. Strong C++ programming skills and a solid understanding of software engineering best practices are essential. Deep knowledge of decision-making algorithms, such as graph/tree search methods or AI-based planners, and experience with motion and behavior planning concepts, including decision-making under uncertainty, optimization techniques, trajectory generation, and route planning, are also necessary. Hands-on experience with embedded systems integration in robotics or automotive domains, along with strong communication and problem-solving skills, is expected.
Preferred qualifications include experience with middleware systems like ROS or DDS, proficiency in scripting languages such as Python and Bash, and familiarity with simulation tools like Gazebo or CARLA. Knowledge of deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), imitation/reinforcement learning techniques, version control systems (e.g., Git), and modern development workflows is advantageous. Prior work on scenario-based testing, MIL/SIL/HIL environments, or automated test frameworks, as well as exposure to CI tools like Jenkins or GitLab CI, is also beneficial.
Lucid Motors offers a competitive base salary ranging from $179,400 to $263,120 USD annually. Additional compensation and benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, vacation, and a 401(k) plan. Successful candidates may also be eligible to participate in Lucid’s equity program and/or a discretionary annual incentive program, subject to company and individual performance.