Senior Deep Learning Engineer (Perception)
The Job:
We are seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Deep Learning Engineer to join our fast-moving and innovative team. In this role, you will leverage your expertise to research, develop, and deploy cutting-edge perception algorithms for our next-generation autonomous systems. You will play a pivotal part in building the "eyes" of our technology, enabling it to robustly perceive and understand the surrounding world.
This is a hands-on, systems-level role where you will bridge fundamental research and real-world deployment, tackling complex challenges. As a key early member of our technical team, you will have significant ownership and the opportunity to directly shape our product's perception capabilities.
What You'll Do:
Algorithm development: Research, design, and implement advanced deep learning algorithms for core perception tasks, such as 2D/3D object detection, semantic segmentation, tracking, and classification.
Multimodal sensor fusion: Develop and optimize algorithms to fuse data from multiple sensor modalities, including cameras, LiDAR, and radar, to build a robust and comprehensive perception system.
Data-centric development: Take a rigorous, data-driven approach to model development. This includes designing training and validation pipelines, curating large-scale datasets, and prioritizing data collection and labeling efforts.
System integration: Work cross-functionally with embedded, hardware, and systems engineers to seamlessly integrate perception software into the larger autonomous stack.
Performance analysis and debugging: Analyze logged field data to identify performance bottlenecks and edge cases, and rapidly iterate on solutions to improve model accuracy and robustness in challenging real-world conditions.
Stay current on research: Keep abreast of the latest academic research and industry trends in deep learning and computer vision to propose and implement innovative solutions.
What You Bring:
EITHER PhD & 2+ years work experience: PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field AND 2+ years of hands-on industry experience developing and deploying deep learning models for perception tasks, ideally in a fast-paced startup environment.
OR Masters & 5-8+ years work experience: Masters in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field AND 5-8+ years of hands-on industry experience developing and deploying deep learning models for perception tasks, ideally in a fast-paced startup environment.
Extensive experience with at least one deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, Tensorflow, Jax)
Expert proficiency in Python; software engineering skills in C++ is a significant plus.
Demonstrated experience with one or more of the following: 3D perception, multi-modal sensor fusion, BEV (Bird's Eye View) models, or end-to-end learning
Excellent problem-solving skills, with a pragmatic and outcome-oriented approach.
High level of ownership and comfort operating independently within an ambiguous, quickly evolving startup environment.
Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across technical specialties.
Bonus Points For:
Prior experience in autonomous vehicles, robotics, or other safety-critical systems.
Experience with specific optimization tools like TensorRT.
What We Offer:
Competitive Salary – Reflective of your skills and experience
Equity Compensation – Be a part-owner in the company's future
Comprehensive Health Coverage – Including medical, dental, and vision plans
Health Savings Account (HSA) – Optional pre-tax savings for medical expenses
Unlimited PTO – Flexible time off to recharge, plus paid company holidays
About Us
Seneca is eliminating the $1 trillion threat of wildfire across 500 million acres with AI-powered autonomous drone systems. Imagine a world where firefighters can respond to a blaze in under 6 minutes using autonomous suppression technology. That's the world Seneca is building. We’re combining the deep expertise of seasoned fire professionals with the innovation of billion-dollar technology builders to create advanced systems that save lives, property, and natural resources.
This is more than a job—it's a mission to transform safety across 500 million acres. Whatever your background, if you’re a builder, an innovator, or a problem-solver, you belong here.
Don’t meet every single requirement? If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification, we encourage you to apply — you may still be the right fit for our team.