2024 Intern, PhD, Research Scientist, Reinforcement Learning for Planning/Behavior Prediction

Key Skills

3D data processing, AI Robotic systems, Deep Learning, Design, JAX framework, Machine learning techniques, NeurIPS, Python Programming, PyTorch, TensorFlow

Job Description

The mission of the Waymo Research team is to develop machine learning solutions addressing open problems in autonomous driving, towards the goal of safely operating Waymo vehicles in dozens of cities and under all driving conditions. As part of our work, we also initiate and foster collaborations with other research teams in Alphabet. Research areas that we are currently focusing on include multi-modal foundation models, learning from demonstration, generative modeling and robust evaluation.

Waymo interns work alongside leaders in the industry on projects that deliver significant impact to the company. We believe learning is a two-way street: leveraging your knowledge while providing you with opportunities to expand your skill-set. Interns are an important part of our culture and our recruiting pipeline. Join us at Waymo for a fun and rewarding internship!

In this research internship, you will:

• Conduct cutting edge research on reliable and generalizable deep learning learning models (reinforcement learning, imitation learning, generative models, etc) of agent behavior, with applications in behavior prediction, planning and simulated agent development.
• Get an opportunity to collaborate with other Waymo teams and Alphabet teams
• Get an opportunity to publish findings in academic conferences and journals

At a minimum we'd like you to have:

• Enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Robotics or similar technical field of study
• Experience in deep learning research and tools such as Jax, TensorFlow, or Pytorch.
• Strong software design and programming,coding experience in Python

It's preferred if you have:

• Publications in top ML conferences such as NeurIPS/ICML/ICLR/CVPR/ICCV/ECCV
• Experience in classic robotic planning algorithms (e.g. search, trajectory optimization)
• Experience in applying ML to behavior modeling (e.g. Imitation Learning, Behavior Prediction, Reinforcement Learning)
• Knowledge of a wide variety of deep learning models and designs
• Previous ML/SWE internships on large-scale deep learning models and systems
• Large-scale data processing and analytical skills

The expected base salary for this full-time position is listed below. The salary will be prorated based on the number of weeks you are employed as an intern. Interns are also eligible to participate in the Company’s generous benefits programs, subject to eligibility requirements.

PhD Pay

$125,000—$125,000 USD

While at Waymo, you will enjoy benefits that cover…

Health and wellness: Our people are at the heart of everything we do. At Waymo, you can enjoy top-notch medical, dental and vision insurance, mental wellness support, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), a Health Saving Account (HSA), on-site physicians and/or nurses in some locations, and special wellness programs.

Financial wellness: Your financial peace of mind is important to us. At Waymo, we offer competitive compensation, bonus opportunities, equity, a generous 401(k) plan or regional retirement plans, 1-on-1 financial coaching, a 529 College Savings Plan and lots of other perks and employee discounts. 

Flexibility and time off: Take the time you need to relax and recharge. Enjoy the flexibility to work from another location for four weeks per year. We support an on-site, hybrid work model and offer remote working opportunities, paid time off, Waymo recharge days, bereavement, sick, and parental leave.