Software Engineer, Computational Geometry; Autonomy

Overview

Kodiak Robotics, Inc. seeks a Software Engineer with deep expertise in computational geometry to join the core algorithms team. You will design and implement the geometric foundations that power mission-critical systems across our stack and build a high-performance geometry library optimized for modern hardware, enabling advanced applications in autonomy, simulation, and beyond.

• Build the core library:
  Design, implement, and maintain a library of computational geometry algorithms in modern C++.
• Develop primitives:
  Create and optimize fundamental operations, such as distances, intersections, projections, polygon operations, and convex hulls for complex geometries.
• Maximize performance:
  Profile and optimize code for CPU architectures (especially x86), leveraging cache-efficient data layouts and instruction-level parallelism.
• Ensure reliability:
  Establish a testing framework to guarantee numerical stability, robustness, and correctness at scale.
• Enable visibility:
  Develop tools for visualizing, debugging, and validating geometric computations.
• Collaborate & integrate:
  Partner with other engineering teams to design clean APIs and integrate the geometry library into larger systems.
• Innovate:
  Research and apply state-of-the-art methods from academia and industry to tackle novel geometric challenges.

• Strong background in computational geometry, linear algebra, and applied mathematics (MS, PhD, or equivalent experience).
• Expert-level modern C++ skills with production-quality, high-performance libraries.
• Deep grasp of CPU/GPU architecture, cache/memory layouts, SIMD, and parallel algorithms.
• A rigorous, test-driven mindset with high standards for software quality and mathematical correctness.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills, able to work across teams and explain complex ideas clearly.
• Hands-on, proactive approach to problem-solving and performance tuning.

• GPU programming experience with CUDA or OpenCL.
• Proficiency in Python or Type Script for prototyping, tooling, or bindings.
• Familiarity with SIMD instruction sets (AVX, SSE).
• Experience with libraries like Clipper or Boost.
  
  Geometry.
• Robotics/AV background (planning, mapping, SLAM, 3D graphics/CAD/physics sim).

• Competitive compensation package including equity and biannual bonuses
• Medical, dental, and vision plans (various providers), including infertility benefits
• Flexible PTO and parental leave
• Office in Mountain View, CA; dog-friendly with amenities
• Free lunch, stocked kitchen, and free EV charging
• Fidelity 401(k) and retirement benefits
• Commuter benefits, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, and HSA

Salary range: $150,000 – $200,000 USD. Actual starting pay will be based on location, experience, training, and qualifications. This range is base salary and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits.

Kodiak is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to build a diverse, safe, and collaborative environment, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. We comply with applicable laws and export controls as required.