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Perception Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perception Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$125K - $220K/yr

As a Perception Engineer, you will design, train, and deploy state-of-the-art vision and multi-sensor perception systems that enable navigation, targeting, and automatic target recognition on our ...

JOB SUMMARY The Perception Engineer IV develops and advances perception systems that enable ASI's autonomous logistics vehicles to understand their surroundings, detect and track objects, identify ...

Perception Intern

Detroit, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Contribute to the development and assessment of perception algorithms that combine LiDAR and camera data under supervision. * Help collect, preprocess, and analyze camera and LiDAR data for model ...

Lead Perception Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

Build perception algorithms and architecture, fusing multiple sensor modalities and supporting an evolving set of novel object classes, in order to provide safe operations for heavy machinery working ...

Perception Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$90K - $250K/yr

Design and implement robust perception, object detection, and tracking algorithms in C++ * Perform statistical analysis to support algorithm characterization and verification * Test and verify your ...

Sr. Perception Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

Pixmo is powered by AnywareOS, a physical AI software that enables advanced perception and object handling in dynamic, unstructured environments. Pixmo's combination of intelligent software and ...

Job Overview You will design and implement the perception systems that give our automated heavy machinery the awareness needed to operate effectively in complex, unstructured environments. This role ...

Lead Perception Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

They are seeking a Lead Perception Engineer to build perception algorithms and architecture, ensuring safe operations for heavy machinery on construction and mining sites. Responsibilities : • Re ...

Perception Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Job Overview We are seeking a Perception Hardware Engineer to join a team that will integrate and develop the sensing and perception systems that power autonomy on our unmanned surface vessels. In ...

Our perception stack is responsible for building Zoox's world-class 3D environment model from multi-modal sensor data. We create novel AI architectures that combine the latest academic results with ...

Perception Engineer

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

The role As a Perception Engineer you will help develop and deploy next-generation sensing capabilities to fish farms across the world. While our current product utilizes underwater cameras and ...

The Role We are looking for a Robotics Perception Engineer to own the sensing and perception stack on our autonomous mobile robots. You will work across LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, and other sensor ...

Perception Engineer IV

Mendon, UT · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Perception Engineer IV develops and advances perception systems that enable ASI's autonomous logistics vehicles to understand their surroundings, detect and track objects, identify ...

Perception Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

The role As a Perception Engineeryou will help develop and deploy next-generation sensing capabilities to fish farms across the world. While our current product utilizes underwater cameras and ...

Aeva's mission is to bring the next wave of perception to a broad range of applications from automated driving to industrial robotics, consumer electronics, consumer health, security, and beyond.

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Perception information

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$30K

$158.2K

$239K

How much do perception jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for perception in the United States is $158,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,000.00 and $185,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are perception jobs?

Perception jobs typically refer to roles within the fields of robotics, autonomous vehicles, and artificial intelligence that focus on enabling machines to interpret and understand sensory data from the environment. Professionals in perception roles develop algorithms and systems that process information from cameras, LiDAR, radar, and other sensors to help machines recognize objects, obstacles, and their surroundings. These positions are crucial for applications like self-driving cars, robotics, and advanced computer vision systems.

What is a Perception job?

A Perception job typically involves developing and improving a system's ability to interpret and understand sensory data, often in fields like robotics, autonomous vehicles, and computer vision. Professionals in this role work with sensor fusion, machine learning, and computer vision algorithms to detect, track, and classify objects in an environment. Their goal is to enable machines to perceive and react to their surroundings accurately, enhancing safety and efficiency.

How to become a perception engineer?

A perception engineer designs and develops systems that interpret sensory data, often requiring a background in computer science, robotics, or electrical engineering. Gaining skills in machine learning, computer vision, and programming languages like Python or C++ is essential, along with experience using tools such as ROS or OpenCV. Relevant certifications and hands-on experience through projects or internships can also support career advancement.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in perception roles within autonomous vehicle development teams?

Professionals in perception roles often encounter challenges related to processing large volumes of sensor data, such as lidar, radar, and cameras, in real time to ensure accurate object detection and scene understanding. Balancing the need for high accuracy with the computational limitations of embedded systems can be demanding. Additionally, perception engineers frequently collaborate with teams in sensor fusion, mapping, and planning, requiring strong communication and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills. Adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and continuously improving algorithms to handle edge cases in complex environments are also key aspects of the role.

What careers use visual intelligence?

Careers that utilize visual intelligence include roles such as graphic designers, architects, surgeons, and pilots, all of which require strong spatial awareness and the ability to interpret visual information. These jobs often involve working with visual tools, diagrams, or images and may require relevant training or certifications in design, engineering, or medical fields.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or specialized certifications.

What professions require good depth perception?

Professions such as pilots, surgeons, electricians, and drivers require good depth perception to perform tasks accurately and safely. These roles often involve operating complex equipment or navigating in three-dimensional space, making depth perception a critical skill. Visual acuity tests and certifications may be required to verify this ability for certain jobs.

What is the difference between Perception vs Data Analyst?

AspectPerceptionData Analyst
Required CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification requiredBachelor's degree in statistics, data science, or related field; certifications like CAP or Microsoft Data Analyst
Work EnvironmentResearch, consulting, or strategic planning settingsBusiness, finance, healthcare, and tech industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in marketing, psychology, and strategic rolesCommon in corporate, finance, and tech sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding how perceptions influence decisionsAnalyzing data to inform business strategies

Perception focuses on how individuals interpret and understand information, often in psychological or strategic contexts. Data Analysts interpret and analyze data sets to support business decisions. While perception is more subjective and qualitative, Data Analysts rely on quantitative data analysis. Both roles are essential in decision-making processes but serve different functions within organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Perception Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Perception Engineer, you need strong foundations in computer vision, robotics, and sensor fusion, typically supported by a degree in computer science, robotics, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like ROS, OpenCV, TensorFlow, and experience working with LiDAR, radar, or camera systems are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication help you collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and tackle complex technical challenges. These skills are crucial for developing reliable perception systems that enable autonomous machines to interpret and interact safely with real-world environments.
More about Perception jobs
What cities are hiring for Perception jobs? Cities with the most Perception job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Perception jobs? The most popular types of Perception jobs are:
What states have the most Perception jobs? States with the most job openings for Perception jobs include:

Perception Engineer

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$125K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach Industries is building an AI-forward autonomy stack for contested environments where GPS and other sensing are unavailable or unreliable. As a Perception Engineer, you will design, train, and deploy state-of-the-art vision and multi-sensor perception systems that enable navigation, targeting, and automatic target recognition on our product lines. You'll work across deep learning, computer vision, and embedded systems to bring research-grade algorithms to real-world deployments.
Key Responsibilities
  • Build and refine detection/segmentation/tracking architectures (CNN/Transformer) for EO/IR and multi-spectral imagery; drive foundation-scale datasets, training recipes, and robust generalization to long-tail and degraded conditions.
  • Stand up training/eval pipelines (PR/ROC, mAP, latency, robustness suites); implement continuous regression testing and model-update loops from field data.
  • Optimize models for real-time embedded inference (quantization/pruning, TensorRT/ONNX Runtime), profile CPU/GPU, and meet tight throughput/latency targets on Jetson-class hardware.
  • Combine vision outputs with auxiliary sensing (e.g., radar/LiDAR/RF cues) for confirm/deny, association, and track management using decision-level fusion.
  • Create visualization, triage, and root-cause tools for rapid insight from simulation, HITL, and flight logs; define end-to-end test plans with hardware and flight teams.
  • Instrument health metrics, drift detection, and graceful degradation; write clear tests and documentation mapped to performance requirements.
  • Perform simulation-based testing with high-fidelity sensor models and validate algorithms using real-world datasets.

Required Qualifications
  • Production C++ on Linux and Python for ML/tooling; profiling, optimization, and rigorous testing discipline. Experience diving into CUDA backends for performance optimization and debugging.
  • Strong with modern detection/segmentation/tracking (e.g., Retina/FCOS/DETR/Mask2D/Video models) and training/fine-tuning in PyTorch.
  • Proven experience building large, diverse datasets; labeling/QA pipelines; augmentation; experiment tracking; and reproducible training.
  • Hands-on with model compression (INT8/FP16), runtime optimization, and real-time constraints.
  • EO/IR imagery experience and working with real flight/test data in challenging environments.
  • 7+ years of experience with either a BS/MS/PhD in CS/EE/Robotics or similar, or equivalent experience; track record shipping ML models to production.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Multi-modal perception experience (EO/IR + radar/LiDAR/RF) at the decision or feature level.
  • Robustness and safety: adversarial/rare-event testing, long-horizon reliability metrics, dataset shift/drift monitoring.
  • Physics-aware imaging: radiometric correction, NUC/FFC, atmospheric effects modeling; synthetic data/simulation for coverage.
  • MLOps and data infra: SQL/Parquet, dataset/versioning tools, CI-based validation; scalable training on multi-GPU.

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!