Senior Staff Lidar Systems Architect

Who We Are Aurora’s mission is to deliver the benefits of self‑driving technology safely, quickly, and broadly. Role Summary The Senior Staff Lidar Sensor Architect will define the next‑generation architecture of high‑performance lidar systems, translating performance requirements into practical hardware implementation, and leading electrical and firmware partitioning and interface design between photonic modules and supporting systems. In this role you will Be responsible for the lidar sensor system architecture including functional decomposition, module definition, and electrical to photonic interface definition. Translate top‑level functional requirements into detailed requirements for design teams including EE, ME, and FW. Partner and collaborate with EE, Embedded FW/SW, integrated photonics, and ME design teams to balance tradeoffs between mechanical, electrical, thermal, and optical requirements. Lead strategy for architectural evolution between lidar generations, particularly in EE and FW domains, to reduce cost, power, and size of sensor. Drive initial bring‑up and debugging for key electrical‑to‑photonic interfaces and modules. Author technical documentation including architecture diagrams, theory of operation documents, hardware/software interfaces, DFMEA, etc. Required Qualifications PhD or MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 8+ years of relevant experience, or a BS with 12+ years of experience. Deep understanding of active sensors including lidar, radar, or spectral imaging systems. Proven track record of architecting complex sensing systems, specifically defining EE/FW partitions and high‑speed data interfaces. Proficiency in system simulation and modeling and familiarity with high‑performance FPGA/SoC architectures. Desirable Qualifications Experience with Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICS) and the unique challenges of integrating them with standard electronics or experience with defining system architecture and specifications for sensor ASICs / ROICs and working with vendors on physical implementation. Experience taking high‑performance sensors from initial R&D through mass manufacturing and field validation. Familiarity with ISO26262, ASIL requirements, and AEC‑Q100/200 component qualification. Compensation The base salary range for this position is $197,000 – $285,000 per year. Aurora’s pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location; the successful candidate’s starting base pay will be based on skills, experience, and market conditions. The successful candidate will also be eligible for an annual bonus, equity compensation, and benefits. Working at Aurora We operate in a hybrid work environment; Aurorans are required to be in the office at least three days per week. Our Commitment to Safety We expect every employee to adhere to our safety policies and actively contribute to building a trustworthy, safety‑first culture. Our Commitment to Inclusion We consider candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, ancestry, political affiliation, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by law. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. For California applicants, information collected and processed as part of your application is subject to Aurora’s California Employment Privacy Policy. #J-18808-Ljbffr Aurora CO