Software Engineer - Planner GPU Compute at Zoox (Boston, MA)
Zoox· Boston, MA· $209k–$263k·
Role details
Job description
Zoox made the world’s first purpose-built commercial robotaxi, combining advanced self-driving hardware and software. In order to ensure safe operation, low latency and consistent resource utilization are critical. The Planner Compute team is responsible for the performance of the largest single software component within the autonomy stack, the motion planner. The Planner Compute team is looking for an expert in GPU performance. You will instrument, monitor, analyze and optimize GPU-based algorithms that are performance-critical for our solution. The scope for GPU usage ranges from machine learning inference to custom CUDA kernels written specifically for the motion planner.
In this role, you will:
- Analyze performance metrics to identify GPU hotspots and optimizations
- Contribute to the adaptation of our current planner to multiple GPU architectures with different resources
- Optimize ML models for latency and GPU memory usage
- Support engineers within Planner as a subject matter expert on CUDA & GPU performance
Qualifications
- BS in computer science or related field and 6+ years of experience.
- Strong knowledge of CUDA as applied to recent GPU microarchitectures (e.g., Ampere, Blackwell) and experience debugging/optimizing GPU kernels using tools like Nsight.
- Strong knowledge of C++ and experience in large code bases, comfortable in Linux development environments.
- Experience in development, debugging, and profiling of complex multiprocess systems (e.g., robotic systems, game engines).
Bonus Qualifications GPU kernel development experience
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. 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.
Why work at Zoox
- Culture: Diverse, supportive community with inclusion‑focused strategy. Crew‑led groups for personal and professional development. Emphasis on trust, humility, and openness zoox.com/careers
- Work environment: Hybrid? The careers page lists many roles as “On‑site” in Foster City, CA, with other office locations available. In‑office perks include a famous food program with daily changing local and sustainable dishes, plus a busy calendar of events and sports teams.
- Benefits: Comprehensive health plans (Cigna), mental health support, wellbeing program, flexible time off, generous family planning and caregiver support, and a commitment to work‑life balance.
- Growth opportunities: Work on cutting‑edge autonomous vehicle technology alongside some of the brightest minds in AI, engineering, computer vision, and more. Offers internships and re‑entry programs (via Path Forward) for career returners.
- Recruitment process: Uses AI tools to assist in reviewing applications but final decisions are human. No fees are charged at any stage – watch for recruitment scams zoox.com/journal/landing-a-job-zoox