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.