Research Engineer - Reinforcement Learning, Self-Driving

About this role

Applied Intuition seeks Research Engineers to advance reinforcement learning and training infrastructure for autonomous driving and robotics. You'll conduct cutting-edge research on large-scale self-play RL and closed-loop simulation while collaborating with world-class researchers and deploying algorithms to production systems serving top global automakers and defense organizations.

What you'll do

• Conduct research on reinforcement learning, self-play RL, and large-scale closed-loop RL for autonomous driving applications
• Develop and optimize RL training infrastructure for neural simulation and VLA post-training
• Collaborate with Research Scientists and interns to produce high-quality publications for top-tier conferences
• Partner with engineering teams to deploy end-to-end algorithms for production autonomous vehicles
• Work on neural simulation and generation tools supporting autonomy development
• Contribute to best practices in autonomy and robotics within a customer-focused environment

What they're looking for

• Reinforcement learning (self-play, imitation learning, behavior learning)
• Large-scale RL training infrastructure (Ray experience preferred)
• Python and PyTorch
• Computer vision
• Distributed machine learning
• Robotics systems
• Closed-loop RL simulation for driving
• VLA post-training for autonomy

Benefits

• Base salary, equity (options/RSUs), and comprehensive health/dental/vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance coverage
• 401k retirement plan with employer match
• Learning and wellness stipends
• Paid time off
• Flexible work arrangements with primary in-office presence in Sunnyvale