📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Staff Systems Engineer
Company: Stack AV
Location: Pittsburgh, PA & Remote
Job Type: On-site & Remote
Category: Systems Engineering
Date Posted: 2025-06-17
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: Hybrid (On-site & Remote)

🚀 Role Summary

Develop safe, reliable, and performant self-driving systems for autonomous trucks.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create detailed safety and functional engineering requirements.
Analyze system designs from a hazard analysis and system safety perspective.
Identify and implement methodologies for discovering new/unique behavior scenarios from test data.
Develop and guide simulation scenario test case development for evaluating system performance and behavior.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong systems engineering background with a focus on safety and hazard analysis. Experience in autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies and components is appreciated but not required.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Product Requirements & Safety Case Development:
- Work with product stakeholders to understand and map product requirements to detailed safety and functional engineering requirements.
- Contribute to the development of the safety case for the complete system, ensuring it is comprehensive and complete.
Systems & Software Analysis:
- Analyze system, software, and hardware designs from holistic system design, hazard analysis, and system safety standpoints.
- Critique software requirements, designs, implementations, analysis, and software test plans and results.
Behavior Scenario Discovery & Simulation Testing:
- Identify and implement methodologies for discovering new/unique behavior scenarios from test data.
- Develop and guide simulation scenario test case development for evaluating system performance and behavior.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Mentorship:
- Provide guidance, subject matter expertise, and mentorship to the broader product development organization on systems and safety engineering topics.
- Collaborate closely with software teams developing algorithms, detailed designs, and implementations of autonomy software and machine learning models.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong cross-functional collaboration skills, with a focus on working with software teams to develop technical approaches, designs, and test strategies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Experience: 5-10 years of experience working across highly cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high degree of engineering rigor. Prior experience developing software or working closely with software teams is required.

Required Skills:

Demonstrated experience working across highly cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high degree of engineering rigor.
Exposure to, and familiarity with, software engineering across the full lifecycle, including software requirements development, software design, implementation, and unit & integration testing.
Ability to constructively and critically critique software requirements, designs, implementations, analysis, and software test plans and results.
Experience conducting safety analyses such as Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessments (HARAs), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
Experience conducting root cause analysis to determine underlying causes of issues and faults.
Work products are developed in a detail-oriented and quantitative approach.
Clear, concise communication of technical topics.
Working knowledge of safety standards applicable to on-road autonomy such as ISO-26262, ISO 21448 (SOTIF), UL 4600, or equivalent.

Preferred Skills:

Experience applying ISO 21448, Safety of the intended functionality (SOTIF).
Background or exposure to autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies and components.
Familiarity with simulation tools for autonomous vehicle testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with experience in autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies and components, as well as familiarity with simulation tools for autonomous vehicle testing, will have an advantage in this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate a strong understanding of systems engineering principles and their application to autonomous vehicle systems.
Showcase experience in hazard analysis, risk assessment, and safety standard application.
Highlight cross-functional collaboration skills and experience working with software teams.
Provide examples of root cause analysis and problem-solving in complex systems.

Technical Documentation:

Documented safety analyses, including Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessments (HARAs), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
Detailed system and software design documents, including requirements, architecture, and test strategies.
Code samples or snippets demonstrating software development experience and proficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should focus on demonstrating their systems engineering expertise and cross-functional collaboration skills in their portfolio, with a strong emphasis on safety and hazard analysis.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $180,000 per year (based on experience and location)

Benefits:

Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Flexible time off and company holidays.
Employee stock option plan.
Professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
Wellness programs and fitness reimbursement.

Working Hours: Full-time, with flexible hours and the option to work remotely part-time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research for systems engineering roles in the autonomous vehicle industry in Pittsburgh, PA. The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Autonomous vehicle technology and AI for modern operations, focusing on the trucking industry.

Company Size: Medium-sized, with a focus on growth and innovation.

Founded: 2020, with a mission to develop revolutionary AI and advanced autonomous systems for enhancing safety, reliability, and efficiency in modern operations.

Team Structure:

Cross-functional teams consisting of software engineers, hardware engineers, machine learning specialists, and systems engineers.
A flat organizational structure that encourages collaboration and innovation.
A strong focus on safety, quality, and customer success.

Development Methodology:

Agile development processes, with a focus on rapid iteration and continuous improvement.
Collaborative development environments that encourage knowledge sharing and mentorship.
A strong emphasis on safety and quality assurance throughout the development lifecycle.

Company Website: stackav.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Stack AV is a growing company with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to change.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior Systems Engineer, focusing on safety and hazard analysis for autonomous vehicle systems.

Reporting Structure: This role will report directly to the Director of Systems Engineering and work closely with cross-functional teams, including software engineers, machine learning specialists, and hardware engineers.

Technical Impact: This role will have a significant impact on the safety, reliability, and performance of Stack AV's autonomous truck systems. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring that the company's products meet the highest standards of safety and quality.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Expand expertise in autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies, machine learning, and safety standards.
Leadership Growth: Develop mentoring and leadership skills by providing guidance and expertise to junior team members and cross-functional teams.
Career Progression: As the company grows, there will be opportunities for career progression into roles such as Principal Systems Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Director of Engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for technical and leadership growth, as well as career progression within the company. Candidates should be eager to take on new challenges and expand their skillset.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with a focus on open communication and knowledge sharing.

Office Location(s): Pittsburgh, PA & Remote

Workspace Context:

Collaboration: Open workspaces that encourage collaboration and teamwork.
Equipment: Modern hardware and software tools for systems engineering, including simulation tools, modeling software, and data analysis tools.
Accessibility: Conveniently located near public transportation and amenities.

Work Schedule: Flexible hours with the option to work remotely part-time. Core hours are 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM EST.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at Stack AV is designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Candidates should be comfortable working in an open, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to change.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone/Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss the role, qualifications, and cultural fit.
Technical Deep Dive: A comprehensive technical interview focused on systems engineering principles, hazard analysis, and safety standards. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with software development, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving.
On-site/Video: A full-day on-site or video interview consisting of technical presentations, case studies, and behavioral interviews. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies, simulation tools, and data analysis.
Final Decision: A final decision will be made based on the candidate's technical expertise, cultural fit, and alignment with the company's mission and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight experience with hazard analysis, risk assessment, and safety standard application.
Showcase cross-functional collaboration skills and experience working with software teams.
Provide examples of root cause analysis and problem-solving in complex systems.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on systems engineering principles, hazard analysis, and safety standards.
Review experience with software development, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving.
Familiarize yourself with autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies, simulation tools, and data analysis.

ATS Keywords: Systems Engineering, Safety Engineering, Hazard Analysis, Risk Assessment, Software Development, Machine Learning, Simulation Testing, Autonomous Vehicles, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Root Cause Analysis, Safety Standards, Technical Mentorship, Product Requirements, Autonomous Trucks

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process at Stack AV is designed to assess the candidate's technical expertise, cultural fit, and alignment with the company's mission and values. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with systems engineering, safety, and hazard analysis in detail.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Systems Engineering Tools:

Modeling & Simulation: MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C++
Data Analysis: Excel, JIRA, Confluence, Git
Safety Standards: ISO-26262, ISO 21448 (SOTIF), UL 4600

Autonomous Vehicle Technologies:

Perception: LiDAR, Radar, Camera, Sensor Fusion
Pose Estimation: GPS, IMU, Visual Odometry
Decision Making: Path Planning, Behavior Planning, Trajectory Generation
Motion Control: Vehicle Dynamics, Actuator Control, Trajectory Tracking

Software Development Tools:

Version Control: Git, GitHub
Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD): Jenkins, CircleCI
Containerization: Docker, Kubernetes
Cloud Platforms: AWS, Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be familiar with the systems engineering tools, autonomous vehicle technologies, and software development tools listed above. Experience with specific tools and technologies is a plus but not required.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

Safety-First: Prioritize safety in all aspects of the development process.
Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that products meet the highest standards of quality and customer success.
Innovation: Embrace a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Quality: Strive for excellence in all aspects of the development process.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with software engineers, machine learning specialists, and hardware engineers to ensure that products meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer success.
Code Review Culture: Encourage knowledge sharing and mentorship through code reviews and pair programming.
Knowledge Sharing: Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement by sharing knowledge and expertise with team members and cross-functional teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture at Stack AV is focused on safety, collaboration, innovation, and quality. Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic, collaborative environment and be eager to embrace a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Safety & Hazard Analysis: Develop and maintain a comprehensive safety case for the autonomous truck system, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of safety and quality.
Behavior Scenario Discovery: Identify and implement methodologies for discovering new/unique behavior scenarios from test data, ensuring that the system can handle unexpected situations and edge cases.
Simulation Testing: Develop and guide simulation scenario test case development for evaluating system performance and behavior, ensuring that the system can handle a wide range of scenarios and edge cases.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Expand expertise in autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies, machine learning, and safety standards through training, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
Career Progression: As the company grows, there will be opportunities for career progression into roles such as Principal Systems Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Director of Engineering.
Conference Attendance & Certification: Attend industry conferences and obtain relevant certifications to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in autonomous vehicle technology and safety engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant technical challenges and growth opportunities. Candidates should be eager to take on new challenges and expand their skillset in the field of autonomous vehicle technology and safety engineering.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Safety & Hazard Analysis: Describe your experience with safety analyses such as Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessments (HARAs), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA). How have you applied these techniques to ensure the safety of complex systems?
Behavior Scenario Discovery: How have you identified and implemented methodologies for discovering new/unique behavior scenarios from test data? Can you provide an example of a complex system where you had to handle unexpected situations or edge cases?
Simulation Testing: How have you developed and guided simulation scenario test case development for evaluating system performance and behavior? Can you provide an example of a complex system where you had to ensure that the system could handle a wide range of scenarios and edge cases?

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: How do you see yourself fitting into Stack AV's culture of collaboration, innovation, and quality? Can you provide an example of a time when you worked effectively in a dynamic, collaborative environment?
Technical Mentorship: How have you provided guidance, subject matter expertise, and mentorship to junior team members or cross-functional teams? Can you provide an example of a time when you helped someone develop their skills or advance their career?
User Experience Impact: How have you ensured that the systems and software you've developed meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer success? Can you provide an example of a time when you had to balance technical requirements with user experience considerations?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Live Demonstration: Prepare a live demonstration of your experience with hazard analysis, risk assessment, and safety standard application. Highlight your ability to work closely with cross-functional teams and provide examples of root cause analysis and problem-solving in complex systems.
Code Walkthrough: Prepare a code walkthrough of a project that showcases your software development experience and proficiency. Highlight your ability to work with software teams and provide examples of collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Behavior Scenario Discovery: Prepare a presentation that demonstrates your experience with behavior scenario discovery and simulation testing. Highlight your ability to identify and implement methodologies for discovering new/unique behavior scenarios from test data and ensure that the system can handle unexpected situations and edge cases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process at Stack AV is designed to assess the candidate's technical expertise, cultural fit, and alignment with the company's mission and values. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with systems engineering, safety, and hazard analysis in detail and provide specific examples of their work.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Staff Systems Engineer position at Stack AV:

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with systems engineering, safety, and hazard analysis. Include specific examples of your work with autonomous vehicle autonomy technologies, simulation tools, and data analysis.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Showcase your experience with hazard analysis, risk assessment, and safety standard application. Include examples of cross-functional collaboration, root cause analysis, and problem-solving in complex systems.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Stack AV's mission, values, and culture. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the company and the role.
Practice Technical Interview Questions: Review the technical interview questions provided and practice your responses. Be prepared to discuss your experience with systems engineering, safety, and hazard analysis in detail and provide specific examples of your work.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web development/server administration industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Staff Systems Engineer