Machine Learning Engineer

• The DUE ML Core London team builds and operates scalable machine learning systems, simulation workflows, and insight tools designed to improve the evaluation and developer onboarding journeys. By combining expert human judgment with advanced machine learning models, we deliver training and evaluation data for hundreds of metrics and components that comprise the Waymo Driver
• By combining expert human judgment with advanced machine learning models, we deliver training and evaluation data for hundreds of metrics and components that comprise the Waymo Driver
• Build scalable systems for training and fine-tuning large-scale generative models to produce realistic and evaluate interesting driving behaviors
• Lead the implementation, and iteration of novel RL algorithms, reward functions, and training paradigms tailored for generating high-fidelity and insightful driving behaviors
• Lead the development of cutting-edge Deep Learning models and Generative AI (LLM/VLM) solutions to enhance human-led triaging, introduce automation for high-volume workflows, and perform nuanced analysis of self-driving behavior to detect critical anomalies
• Oversee the production and optimization of machine learning models aiming to assess Waymo’s expansive fleet of vehicles that cumulatively travel millions of miles
• Proactively monitor and assimilate best practices from within Alphabet and the broader industry to develop a novel Reinforcement Learning from Human Preference (RLHF) based data collection and evaluation system
• Collaborate closely with multiple teams (e.g., Prediction, Planning, Research), other technical leads, and senior leaderships across Waymo to deliver on key strategic efforts

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health
• Personalized workplace adjustments for diverse needs and abilities, including physical, mental, and neurodivergent considerations
• Access to mental health apps
• Onsite wellness centers
• Second medical opinion for you and your loved ones
• Medical advocacy program for transgender employees
• Support programs including menopause benefit
• Counseling services
• Competitive compensation
• Regular bonus and equity performance grant opportunities
• Generous 401(k) and regional retirement plans
• Annual cross-company compensation review and pay equity analysis
• 1-on-1 financial coaching
• Fertility and growing family assistance
• Parental leave and baby bonding leave
• Elder care and support
• Survivor income benefit
• Backup childcare
• Caregiver leave
• Paid time off, including vacation, bereavement, sick leave, parental leave, disability, and holidays
• Jury duty leave
• Military leave
• Hybrid work model with remote work opportunities also available
• Educational reimbursement
• Peer learning and coaching platform
• Donation matching programs
• Employee resource groups
• Volunteer hours
• Internal community groups and local culture clubs
• Inspiring spaces to work, recharge, and collaborate with fellow Waymonauts
• On-site meals and snacks
• Fitness centers, massage programs, and ergonomic support
• On-demand fitness, wellbeing, and cooking classes
• Commuter benefits- We are looking for researchers and software engineers passionate about developing ML techniques for evaluation systems and driving performance improvements across our technology stack
• M.S. or Ph.D. degree Computer Science, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience
• Experience with large-scale distributed training and data processing
• Proficiency in Python and standard ML frameworks (e.g., JAX, TensorFlow)
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in developing and applying Machine Learning models, with a significant focus on Reinforcement Learning
• Demonstrated expertise in deep learning, sequence modeling, and generative models
• Proven ability to lead complex and ambiguous technical projects from conception to completion
• Strong publication record or history of impactful project delivery in RL or related areas
• 7+ years of relevant experience in ML/RL research and application
• Experience in the autonomous vehicles domain, robotics, or complex simulation environments
• Deep understanding of state-of-the-art RL techniques, including those used for fine-tuning large models (e.g., from human feedback/preferences)
• Familiarity with large-scale simulation platforms and their integration with ML training workflows
• Track record of technical leadership, influencing senior stakeholders, and driving innovation across team boundaries
• Experience designing and using metrics for evaluating complex AI systems
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly