Forward Deployed Software Engineer
The Forward Deployed Software Engineer at Confidential Client works directly with customers to deploy and integrate advanced vehicle intelligence products in real-world operational environments. This role requires a strong engineering background to tackle diverse technical challenges spanning software, hardware, and system deployment, ensuring successful project execution and customer satisfaction. The position emphasizes technical ownership, collaboration, and adaptability within a fast-evolving industry focused on physical AI and autonomy.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, in the Software Development industry.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
About the Role
Confidential Client is seeking a Forward Deployed Software Engineer to join a customer-facing engineering team in Sunnyvale, CA. In this role you'll own end-to-end technical execution on high-impact customer projects — integrating software, operating systems, and hardware into real-world environments to deliver vehicle-intelligence and autonomy solutions. You will work closely with product and engineering teams to design repeatable deployment patterns and deliver mission success for commercial and government customers.
What You’ll Do
- Work directly with customers to deploy, integrate, and operationalize vehicle intelligence and autonomy products.
- Implement, configure, and troubleshoot software and operating system components in customer environments.
- Bridge customer-built systems and Confidential Client solutions to deliver measurable value.
- Design and implement scalable, repeatable approaches for customer engagement and project execution.
- Develop architectural solutions to improve consistency and scalability across projects.
- Collaborate with internal engineering, product, and customer teams to ensure successful outcomes.
- Take ownership of technical outcomes and drive projects to completion while adapting to changing requirements.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Strong software engineering skills, including proficiency in C++ and Python.
- Broad technical background spanning software engineering, OS configuration, system deployment, and some hardware integration.
- Experience supporting integration and deployment of complex systems in production or field environments.
- Exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to operate independently in ambiguous, fast-moving operational contexts.
- Excellent communication skills with a customer-first mindset.
- Proven track record driving customer engagements and delivering results.
- References who describe you as low-ego, highly motivated, thoughtful, and communicative.
Nice to Have
- Prior experience working directly with customers or in customer-facing engineering roles.
- Familiarity with system architecture and designing scalable solutions.
- Experience in automotive, robotics, defense, trucking, or adjacent industries.
Travel Requirements
- Willingness to travel between offices and to customer sites as needed.
Compensation Range
- $130,000 – $200,000 per year (range provided by the client). This role is based in Sunnyvale, CA; actual pay offered may depend on experience, skills, and location.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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