Senior Software Engineer - Time Synchronization & Embedded Networking

Latitude AI (lat.ai) develops automated driving technologies, including L3, for Ford vehicles at scale. Were driven by the opportunity to reimagine what its like to drive and make travel safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone.

When you join the Latitude team, youll work alongside leading experts across machine learning and robotics, cloud platforms, mapping, sensors and compute systems, test operations, systems and safety engineering all dedicated to making a real, positive impact on the driving experience for millions of people. 

As a Ford Motor Company subsidiary, we operate independently to develop automated driving technology at the speed of a technology startup. Latitude is headquartered in Pittsburgh with engineering centers in Dearborn, Mich., and Palo Alto, Calif.

Meet the team:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Software Engineer specializing in Time Synchronization and Embedded Networking for autonomous systems. You will be responsible for the hands-on design, development, and technical problem-solving for critical timing and networking solutions. This role requires deep expertise in precision timing protocols and functional safety standards to ensure the robust, reliable, and safe operation of our next-generation autonomous platforms.

What youll do: 

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of high-precision time synchronization solutions for autonomous systems, utilizing IEEE 1588 (PTP) and IEEE 802.1AS (gPTP), including architecting clock distribution, leveraging hardware timestamping, and implementing efficient time distribution mechanisms
• Design and execute comprehensive testing, validation, and performance optimization strategies for timing systems, ensuring sub-microsecond accuracy, and diagnose and resolve complex timing, latency, and synchronization issues (e.g., task starvation, offset deviations)
• Design, develop, and validate safety-critical time synchronization and networking components in compliance with functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262), including creating safety monitors, contributing to safety analyses (HARA, FMEA), and developing verification plans
• Design, develop, and optimize embedded networking solutions, including configuring Ethernet switches and their forwarding mechanisms (e.g., Address Lookup Engines), managing multicast, unicast, VLANs, static ARP/MAC entries, and debugging network traffic flows
• Actively contribute to technical and architectural discussions, collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners, and contribute to technical documentation and industry standards related to timing and networking

What you'll need to succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics or a related field and 4+ years of relevant experience (or Master's degree and 2+ years of relevant experience, or PhD)
• 5+ years of experience in embedded systems software development, with a significant focus on time synchronization
• Expert-level knowledge and hands-on experience with IEEE 1588 (PTP) and IEEE 802.1AS (gPTP) in real-world embedded systems
• Strong understanding of time synchronization architectures, measurement methodologies, and standards (e.g., NTP, GNSS-based synchronization)
• Proven hands-on experience with timing measurement instrumentation and analysis tools
• Strong understanding and practical experience with functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262) for software and systems
• Proficiency in C and modern C++ programming for embedded systems, particularly in RTOS or embedded Linux environments
• Proven experience in designing, implementing, and analyzing network protocols and embedded Ethernet switches
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills for both time synchronization and networking
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts and collaborate effectively

Nice to have: 

• Experience with other automotive or industrial communication protocols (e.g., CAN, Automotive Ethernet)
• Knowledge of broader Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) standards beyond PTP/gPTP
• Experience with simulation tools
• Scripting proficiency (e.g., Python) for automation, testing, and data analysis
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) or software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing
• Familiarity with various System-on-Chips (SoCs) and their networking peripherals
• Knowledge of network security concepts like MACSec in embedded systems
• Experience with kernel-level programming, device drivers, and/or real-time systems software

What we offer you:

• Competitive compensation packages
• High-quality individual and family medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings account with available employer match
• Employer-matched 401(k) retirement plan with immediate vesting
• Employer-paid group term life insurance and the option to elect voluntary life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Paid medical leave
• Unlimited vacation
• 15 paid holidays
• Daily lunches, snacks, and beverages available in all office locations
• Pre-tax spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Monthly wellness stipend
• Adoption/Surrogacy support program
• Backup child and elder care program
• Professional development reimbursement
• Employee assistance program
• Discounted programs that include legal services, identity theft protection, pet insurance, and more
• Company and team bonding outlets: employee resource groups, quarterly team activity stipend, and wellness initiatives

Learn more about Latitudes team, mission and career opportunities at lat.ai!

The expected base salary range for this full-time position in California is $179,200 - $268,800 USD. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Latitude employees are also eligible to participate in Latitudes annual bonus programs, equity compensation, and generous Company benefits program, subject to eligibility requirements.

Candidates for positions with Latitude AI must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is available for this position.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status.

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