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Senior/Staff Software Engineer - Embedded Linux Operating Systems

Summary

Build and maintain the embedded Linux OS that runs Zoox’s autonomous vehicles, configuring Yocto/U-Boot, writing kernel drivers in C/C++, and collaborating with hardware teams.

Zoox's Robot Software Infrastructure team is seeking a passionate software engineer to help develop and advance the common performant operating system that powers several devices on our vehicle including Autonomy systems. This team develops platform-level software and services, including operating systems that enable complex, hardware-accelerated workloads critical for autonomous driving on automotive-grade hardware.


We work closely with cross-functional teams—including developers, release management, hardware engineering, manufacturing and operations—to support vehicle development and deployment at scale. You'll have the opportunity to influence the next generation of our platform, hardware, and robotaxi. If you are excited to explore a broad problem space and are mindful of how components fit within a larger system, you may be a great fit!

In this role, you will:

  • Design, develop, and maintain the operating system platform that powers various on-bot devices and applications
  • Architect and implement platform-level software to support robust and scalable robotics infrastructure
  • Configure and manage embedded Linux build systems (e.g., Yocto) and bootloader processes (e.g., U-Boot) to ensure reliable system startup and maintenance
  • Develop and optimize device drivers and kernel-space components using C, C++, or Rust to meet performance and reliability requirements
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to support seamless integration and delivery of the OS platform, triage issues, support new hardware bring-up and manufacturing functions
  • Qualifications

  • 8+ years delivering production systems and software applications, 2+ years of delivering custom Embedded Linux operating systems
  • Have a deep understanding of Linux, build systems like Yocto, and bootloaders like U-Boot
  • Be familiar with Linux init systems (e.g., systemd), containerization concepts (e.g., chroot, cgroups, Linux namespaces), and filesystems
  • Understand device drivers and kernel-space code and proficiency in a language without automatic memory management (e.g., C or C++), and in multiple scripting languages like bash and Python
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills along with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience
  • Bonus Qualifications

  • Experience with embedded Linux in a robotics application
  • Familiarity with security software: PKI, secure boot, OTA software update, hardware key storage, etc.
  • Familiarity with Nvidia GPUs, Nvidia Thor/Orin, Cuda, TRT, etc.
  • Graduate degree with a focus on networking, operating systems, or firmware
  • About Zoox
    Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.

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    Accommodations
    If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com or your assigned recruiter.

    A Final Note:
    You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

    What this application asks

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    Resume/CV, Full name, Pronouns, Email, Phone, Current location, Current company, LinkedIn URL, Other website

    • What is your preferred first name and last name? If your legal first and last name is your preferred name, you do not need to respond. written answer · optional
    • Export Control and Compliance: For the sole purpose of determining export licensing requirements, please list any countries of which you are a citizen or legal permanent resident, and when you obtained such status. written answer
    • Sponsorship: Do you require sponsorship, or will you require sponsorship in the future for employment authorization in the United States? choose one · optional
    • How did you hear about us? yes / no · optional
    • If you attended an on-campus or virtual event, which did you attend? optional

    See also