New Platform Enablement Manager (HW/Ops Design Excellence)
About this role
Professionals who thrive in complex hardware-software integration environments will find this platform enablement position engaging. Waymo operates an autonomous driving technology company focused on deploying the Waymo Driver across multiple vehicle platforms and product use cases. The selected candidate will drive operations for new sensor suites and base vehicles, ensuring maturity and large-scale deployment readiness. Reporting to the Platform & Systems Enablement Lead, the individual bridges engineering and operations by translating field observations into hardware design improvements. The role exists to scale autonomous fleet operations and requires close collaboration with external automotive partners, internal engineering teams, and cross-functional stakeholders from prototype through production.
What you will do
- Bring up and enable the deployment of new and upcoming Waymo platforms across all program phases, moving from prototype requirements to full deployment.
- Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional stakeholders to facilitate fast feedback loops, issue discovery, and resolution.
- Manage and drive operations for new sensor suites and base vehicles to guarantee maturity and readiness for large-scale deployment.
- Partner with automotive partners and test drivers to review operational observations, gather feedback, and deliver training.
- Contribute to the creation and advancement of hardware design and platform feature needs by optimizing for operations and scale.
What you need
- Hold a BA or BS degree in a related technical subject such as engineering, manufacturing, or automotive, or possess equivalent practical experience in a technical field.
- Bring 7 or more years of experience working in an automotive-based or related transportation industry like aviation or space development.
- Demonstrate deep operations experience in assisting with the bring-up of hardware and platforms within critical mission environments.
- Showcase documented experience working within program or product-based environments alongside large cross-functional teams and external partners.
- Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills tailored for senior stakeholders and cross-functional audiences.
Nice to have
- Engineering or technical degree in a related field
- Systems engineering experience or background with requirement-based analysis in a transportation-related industry
- Hands-on experience and exposure to the full product development life cycle from prototype to production
- Early prototype testing experience in automotive, aviation, mobility, or hardware industries
- Ability to build strong cross-functional relationships while working directly with hardware, system engineering, technicians, product, operations leads, and end-user teams
Benefits
- Discretionary annual bonus program
- Equity incentive plan
- Company benefits program
Questions candidates ask
What is the expected salary range for this position?
The expected base salary range for this full-time position across US locations is $159,000 to $196,000 USD. Actual starting pay depends on job-related factors including exact work location, experience, relevant training, education, and skill level.
Does this role require travel?
Yes, there is a flexibility requirement to travel to OEM, vendor, partner, and deployment locations, as well as test environments.
Who does this role report to?
This role will report to the Platform & Systems Enablement Lead.
What additional compensation programs are available?
Waymo employees are eligible to participate in Waymo’s discretionary annual bonus program, equity incentive plan, and company benefits program, subject to eligibility requirements.