JOB DESCRIPTIONWe are building the next-generation ECU simulation platform that powers software-defined vehicle development across multiple vehicle programs. Using state-of-the-art CPU, GPU, and NPU simulation / emulation / virtualization technologies, our team enables hyper-realistic, high-throughput, and scalable simulation environments that dramatically accelerate vehicle software validation, integration, and deployment.
As a
Staff Simulation Software Engineer, you will design and deliver the foundational low-level software that makes this possible - working at the intersection of hypervisor technology, hardware architecture, and automotive real-time systems. This is a high-visibility, high-impact role with direct influence on vehicle programs that will shape the future of mobility.
Roles and Responsibilities:•
Own the end-to-end design and delivery of low-level emulation and virtualization software for high-performance, high-throughput ECU simulation across multiple cross-platform vehicle initiatives, ensuring industry-leading reliability, scalability, and efficiency.
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Architect and optimize CPU, GPU, NPU simulation / emulation / virtualization technologies continuously pushing the boundaries of functionality, performance, efficiency, and reliability.
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Deliver production-grade simulation components that precisely meet product definitions, customer specifications, and vehicle platform requirements, maintaining full traceability to requirements.
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Design and implement high-performance Linux guest drivers and libraries for CPU, GPU, NPU, and peripheral components, enabling seamless virtualized hardware access in a virtualized environment.
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Partner closely with application and system development, validation, and integration teams to translate real-world automotive constraints into robust, high-quality simulation solutions that accelerate vehicle product SW development, validation, and integration.
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Drive high-quality, on-time delivery of software deliverables across multiple vehicle programs while championing best practices in testing strategies, traceability, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications:• 7+ years of hands-on experience building complex, high-performance software systems (embedded systems, virtualization, or large-scale simulation preferred).
• 3+ years of deep expertise in QEMU or similar simulation / emulation / virtualization software development on Linux (KVM experience highly valued).
• Strong architectural background in CPU, GPU, and NPU architectures, modern SoC designs, software stacks, and virtualization technologies (including virtualization extensions and performance optimization techniques).
• Solid mastery of Linux kernel internals, embedded / real-time operating systems (real-time OS), and low-level driver development.
• Proven experience with ARM platform bring-up and bare-metal / low-level software development.
• BS / MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality, production-grade code on aggressive timelines, with excellent technical documentation and communication skills.
• Organized mindset and a passion for delivering high-quality software in a collaborative environment.
Preferred Qualifications:• Deep expertise in QEMU or simulator architecture and development (contributor or maintainer experience is a strong plus).
• Hands-on experience with Linux hypervisors and virtualized driver stacks in environments such as QEMU, KVM, VMware, VirtualBox, or Xen.
• Familiarity with Linux hypervisor, middleware, and application frameworks.
• Experience in automotive platforms (AUTOSAR, functional safety ISO 26262, or vehicle virtualization frameworks) is a significant advantage.
• Exposure to cloud computing, databases, and logging techniques for large-scale simulation/validation pipelines is a plus.
Compensation:The US base salary range for this full-time position is $163,500.00 - $212,400.00.
- Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
- Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only. It does not include discretionary bonus, equity, or benefits.
Benefits:Along with competitive pay, as a full-time NIO employee, you are eligible for the following benefits on the first day you join NIO:
- Anthem Blue Cross, HSA, and Kaiser HMO medical plans with $0 for Employee Only Coverage.
- Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plan. Both provide options with a $0 paycheck contribution covering you and your eligible dependents.
- Company Paid HSA (Health Savings Account) Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Anthem Blue Cross medical plan
- Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- 401(k) with Brokerage Link option
- Company paid Basic Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Sick and Vacation time
- 13 Paid Holidays a year
- Paid Parental Leave for first 8 weeks at full pay (eligible after 90 days of employment with NIO)
- Paid Disability Leave for first 6 weeks at full pay (eligible after 90 days of employment with NIO)
- Voluntary benefits including: Voluntary Life and AD&D options for you, your spouse/domestic partner and dependent child(ren), pet insurance
- Commuter benefits
- Mobile Cell Phone Credit
- Free lunch and snacks
- Onsite gym
- Employee discounts and perks program
