Software Engineer - Perception (All Levels)
At a glance
Mid-level Machine Learning Engineering role at Overland AI. Seattle · full-time · $150,000–$300,000 base.
aimlroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Build and deploy real-time perception models for tasks such as object tracking, surface reconstruction and visual odometry
- Choose metrics that reflect vehicle behavior, then implement them and act on their results
- Test and integrate the perception stack with new sensor setups
- Work across disciplines and the wider software stack to improve system reliability and performance
What you bring
- A degree in computer science or a similar field, plus at least two years implementing perception algorithms in industry or academia
- Strong Python or C++ skills and hands-on work with a deep learning framework
- Expertise in ROS 2 or comparable robotics middleware, and the ability to obtain and keep a DOD security clearance
Who this fits
This role suits a perception engineer comfortable owning problems and collaborating across disciplines in a small team. Seattle is the preferred location, though experienced, well-qualified remote candidates who can work Pacific Time business hours will be considered.
From the employer
About Overland AI
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Overland AI is transforming land operations for modern defense. The company leverages over a decade of advanced research in robotics and machine learning, as well as a field-test forward ethos, to deliver combined capabilities for unit commanders. Our OverDrive autonomy stack enables ground vehicles to navigate and operate off-road in any terrain without GPS or direct operator control. Our intuitive OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precise coordination capabilities essential for mission success.
Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors including 8VC and Point 72, and built trusted partnerships with DARPA, the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. Backed by eight-figure contracts across the Department of Defense, we are strengthening national security by iterating closely with end users engaged in tactical operations.
Role Summary
Overland AI is building autonomous ground vehicles that navigate the world's hardest terrain without GPS, roads, or prior maps. Our OverDrive autonomy stack is already operating under contract with DARPA, the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command, and the perception challenges we face look nothing like a self-driving car on a highway.
We're looking for perception engineers who want to make vehicles see and understand environments where there are no lane markings, no traffic signs, and no structured surfaces to rely on.
Experienced, well-qualified remote candidates able to work during Pacific Time Zone business hours will be considered.
What You'll Do
- Design, prototype, and deploy perception/deep learning algorithms (e.g., object detection and tracking, surface reconstruction, visual odometry) that run real-time on our autonomous vehicles.
- Identify, implement, and respond to meaningful metrics that affect vehicle behavior.
- Support experimentation and integration of the perception stack with new sensors and configurations.
- Collaborate closely with experts across disciplines to work across the entire stack to improve the reliability and performance of the system.
Desired Experience & Qualifications
- BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science or similar and 2+ years of experience (industry or academia) implementing perception algorithms
- Preferred: top-tier publications in CV and Robotics conferences and/or past experience working with lidars and cameras
- Expert in ROS 2 or other similar robotics middleware.
- Strong programming (Python or C++) skills and experience in a deep learning framework such as Pytorch, JAX, Tensorflow, etc.
- You excel in a small-team atmosphere, taking ownership of problems and working with your colleagues to solve problems across disciplines.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD Security Clearance.
Location:
The preferred location for this position is Seattle, WA
Compensation And Benefits
Pay Range:
Software Engineer: $150,000 - $300,000
Actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day.
Benefits Incldue:
- Equity compensation
- Best-in-class healthcare, dental and vision plans.
- Flexible PTO
- 401k with company match
- Parental leave
Overland AI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, protected veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
This position may involve access to export-controlled technology. Employment is contingent on the ability to comply with U.S. export control laws.
Overland AI provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans during the application process. Please contact [peopleops@overland.ai] to request an accommodation.