Principal Engineer, AI & Data Platforms – Onsite Role with Focus on Cutting-Edge Research and Development

The Role: Principal Engineer/Researcher – AI and Data Platforms

Are you passionate about AI, data platforms , and next-generation mobility technologies? We are looking for a highly motivated Principal Engineer/Researcher to join our Information Technology Lab, specializing in AI research, data infrastructure , and advanced mobility services. In this role, you will lead research initiatives, collaborate with top academic and industry experts, and develop innovative data solutions that will drive future mobility.

Location: Mountain View, California – Onsite daily. Travel: Limited domestic travel (up to 10%).

Work Schedule: Daily onsite presence for hands-on collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Research & Development: Define and lead research projects in AI and data technologies , focusing on next-generation data platforms for multi-service business applications like battery management, supply chain, marketing, and mobility services .
• Academic Collaboration: Partner with university researchers and industry experts to explore emergent AI technologies, contributing to advancements in AI and data algorithms .
• Platform Development & Innovation: Research and develop data platforms (open-source, commercial) and innovate data capabilities that enhance performance, scalability, and efficiency. Lead discussions and provide technical expertise in multiple data and AI product areas.
• PoC and Benchmarking: Conduct proof-of-concept (PoC) and benchmarks for data services, analyzing performance, costs, scalability, and reliability.
• Technology Transfer & Leadership: Mentor junior researchers, ensure successful technology transfer from research to advanced development, and present findings to senior leadership.
• AI Advocacy: Evangelize AI and data platforms , create a strategic roadmap, and influence the adoption of AI technologies within the organization.

Must-Haves

• Education: PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Math, Statistics, or a related field .
• Hands-on R&D Experience: Minimum of 5 years in R&D with a strong record of patents and publications .
• AI and Data Expertise: Strong familiarity with end-to-end data services and domains —including data ingestion (ETL, streaming), data integration, data processing, data analytics , and data management . This includes working with databases (SQL, NoSQL, Vector) and understanding data storage technologies like SSD and HDD.
• Software Proficiency: Expertise in tools and programming languages such as Python, SQL/NoSQL, Kafka, Spark for data and AI prototyping.
• Data Infrastructure Experience: 3+ years of experience in advanced data platforms , distributed cloud architecture , IoT systems , and data management .
• Project Management & Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead research projects, including planning, reporting, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Corporate Lab & Cross-Functional Experience: Background in working with corporate R&D labs and proven track record of cross-functional collaboration.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in computer vision, machine learning architecture, natural language processing, clustering, regression, recommendation systems, big data, and time series analysis.

Nice-to-Haves

• Advanced Experience: PhD in Engineering (e.g., Computer Science, Data Science, Information/Data Management).
• IoT and Cloud Systems: Hands-on experience with IoT, distributed cloud architecture , and connected systems .
• Programming & Embedded Systems: Proficiency in Python, Rust , and embedded systems (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson, Arduino).

What We Offer

• Innovation & Research Opportunities: Work on leading-edge AI and data research , creating impactful solutions for next-generation mobility.
• Hands-On Collaboration: Daily onsite work at our Mountain View, CA location, collaborating with a dynamic, innovative team.
• Career Growth: Opportunities to lead projects, partner with leading academic experts, and develop new AI capabilities for global impact.

Who We Are

ADAPT Technology is a boutique engineering and technical recruitment firm, specializing in Engineering, Metrology, Prototyping, Manufacturing, and Talent Resources . We serve diverse industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer products, defense, forensic, heavy truck & equipment, medical, tooling, and automation . Our expertise lies in providing customized solutions, from concept to production , leveraging rapid prototyping, and creating high-quality engineering solutions.

Our staffing division is non-traditional, offering a personalized experience that ensures a quality match between candidates and clients. We build long-term partnerships, provide hands-on project development, and ensure exceptional results through dedicated support and innovative technologies.