Software Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Software Engineer – R&D (Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Automated Driving)

Job Description

This role focuses on research and advanced development in machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and automated driving. You will design and implement state-of-the-art algorithms, build robust software pipelines, and contribute to new technologies that align with the organization’s strategic direction. Working under moderate direction, you will document findings, present results to senior engineers and leadership, and help shape next-generation automated driving solutions while mentoring less experienced colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to scientific research, development, and testing of new concepts, technologies, applications, products, and processes in automated driving and robotics.
• Research and develop state-of-the-art machine learning models and pipelines to enhance automated driving solutions.
• Design, prototype, and evaluate machine learning algorithms for automated driving applications, including perception, prediction, and control components.
• Collaborate closely with hardware teams to integrate complete software and hardware systems into test vehicles.
• Develop verification and validation test plans, execute tests, and clearly demonstrate results and performance.
• Prepare, document, and present technical reports and findings to senior engineers and management.
• Develop and define test strategies and plans under the supervision of senior engineers or managers, ensuring thorough coverage and traceability.
• Conduct market research and benchmarking to support technical reviews and inform technology choices and roadmaps.
• Perform patent searches, create and submit new patent requests, and research and review existing patents to support intellectual property strategy.
• Stay abreast of worldwide technical trends in machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and automated driving, and propose improvements to processes, tools, and methodologies.
• Analyze current processes, systems, and equipment, recommend improvements, and implement approved changes to enhance performance and efficiency.
• Act as a mentor to less experienced engineers, providing guidance, code reviews, and on-the-job training.
• Collaborate with academic partners and research institutions on advanced projects that may lead to new products or spin-off initiatives.
• Perform other engineering and research duties as assigned to support broader R&D objectives.

Essential Skills

• Master’s or PhD degree in Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 2–5+ years of relevant experience in machine learning, computer vision, robotics, automated driving, or closely related areas.
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of general engineering principles and methodologies in a research or advanced development environment.
• Extensive experience in machine learning, computer vision, robotics, or other relevant areas applied to real-world systems.
• Excellent software engineering skills in Python and/or C++, with a strong emphasis on Python.
• Hands-on experience with Python and MATLAB for algorithm development, data analysis, and prototyping.
• Familiarity with localization concepts and mapping for automated driving (determining vehicle position).
• Experience with CAN protocol and robotics engineering concepts.
• Familiarity with CUDA or OpenCL for accelerating compute-intensive workloads.
• Familiarity with ROS and ROS2 for robotics and automated driving software integration.
• Familiarity with LiDAR, camera, radar, and other sensing components used in automated driving systems.
• Comfort working in Linux and other Unix-based environments for development and deployment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to interpret complex technical information and present it clearly to diverse audiences.
• Ability to negotiate and resolve fundamental technical issues and build support for projects and technical decisions.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to independently evaluate complex situations and develop innovative solutions.
• Relevant industry experience in automated driving or robotics projects.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience combined with a Master’s degree is considered ideal for this role.
• Strong preference for candidates with a Master’s degree, especially with a focus on machine learning, computer vision, or robotics.
• Experience integrating software with embedded or vehicle hardware systems.
• Experience collaborating with academic institutions or research labs on advanced technology projects.
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies, frameworks, and tools in a fast-evolving domain.
• Experience preparing technical documentation, research reports, and patent submissions.
• Interest in autonomous vehicles and a desire to work on cutting-edge projects that may evolve into new products or startups.

Work Environment

The role is based in a high-tech innovation lab located in a vibrant urban district. The facility has been recently renovated and offers a modern, clean, and well-equipped environment that combines the energy of a tech startup with the stability of a larger organization. The lab operates like a startup within a larger corporation, providing access to advanced tools, test vehicles, and a collaborative workspace. The culture emphasizes innovation, continuous learning, and close collaboration with colleagues, including international team members and visiting experts. The environment features typical tech startup amenities, including plentiful snacks and informal gathering spaces that encourage teamwork and idea sharing. Engineers have opportunities to engage with leading academic institutions and work on cutting-edge autonomous driving and robotics projects in a setting that values work–life balance more than traditional startup cultures.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Pittsburgh, PA.

The pay range for this position is $48.00 - $62.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a hybrid position in Pittsburgh,PA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.