Staff Android Framework Engineer - GNSS HAL & Energy HAL at Ford in Palo Alto, CA

About Ford

Ford Motor Company is a global automotive leader revolutionizing mobility through intelligent vehicles, smart ecosystems, and innovative software solutions. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford pioneers electric vehicles, autonomous driving technologies, and connected car experiences. With a workforce exceeding 170,000, Ford invests billions in R&D annually to shape the future of transportation. In Palo Alto, our advanced research hub drives cutting-edge Android-based infotainment (IVI) systems, positioning Ford at the forefront of automotive software engineering.

Role Overview

As a Staff Android Framework Engineer specializing in GNSS HAL & Energy HAL, you will architect and implement foundational components of Ford's Android framework for in-vehicle infotainment platforms. This role demands expertise in Android's layered architecture to boost performance, reliability, and security. Located in Palo Alto, CA, you will collaborate with elite engineers in a dynamic environment fostering innovation for next-generation vehicles. If you excel in embedded Android development and HAL customization, this position offers unparalleled impact on Ford's software-defined vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

Your contributions will directly elevate Ford's IVI ecosystem:

• Design and implement core Android framework components tailored for automotive IVI systems.
• Develop and optimize GNSS Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) for high-precision global navigation satellite systems integration.
• Engineer Energy HAL to manage power consumption, battery optimization, and energy-efficient operations in connected vehicles.
• Enhance system performance, reliability, and security through rigorous testing and profiling.
• Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and application teams to ensure seamless platform integration.
• Debug complex issues in Android runtime, Binder, and HAL interfaces under real-world automotive constraints.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Skills

Success in this role requires:

• 7+ years of experience in Android framework or AOSP development.
• Deep expertise in Android HAL, including GNSS and Energy HAL implementations.
• Proficiency in C/C++, Java, Kotlin, and Linux kernel interactions.
• Strong knowledge of Android architecture layers: Framework, Libraries, HAL, and Kernel.

Educational Background

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent. Automotive software experience is highly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with automotive standards like AUTOSAR or Android Automotive OS (AAOS).
• Familiarity with IVI systems, sensor fusion, or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications.
• Track record of shipping production Android-based products.

Benefits & Perks

Ford offers a premium compensation package designed for top talent:

• Estimated salary range: $180,000 - $260,000 USD annually, plus bonuses and equity.
• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• 401(k) with company match up to 6% and immediate vesting.
• Hybrid work model in state-of-the-art Palo Alto facilities with flexible hours.
• 20+ days paid time off, family leave, and employee assistance programs.
• Tuition reimbursement, certification support, and access to Ford's Learning Management System.

Career Growth

At Ford, your career accelerates like our vehicles. Staff engineers mentor juniors, lead projects, and influence global roadmaps. Advance to Principal Engineer or Technical Lead roles with clear promotion paths. Participate in hackathons, conferences like Android Builders Summit, and internal tech talks. Ford's commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures equitable growth opportunities for all.

Why Join Us

Ford Palo Alto is where automotive meets Silicon Valley innovation. Work on real-world impacts: safer, smarter, electrified vehicles reaching millions. Enjoy Bay Area perks—proximity to Stanford, hiking trails, and vibrant tech community—while enjoying Ford's stability and resources. Be part of the software-defined vehicle revolution, backed by a century-old icon redefining mobility.

Role FAQs

What is the tech stack?

Primarily AOSP, C/C++, Java/Kotlin, with tools like Android Studio, Gerrit, and Jenkins for CI/CD.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Yes, comprehensive relocation support for eligible candidates moving to Palo Alto, CA.

What makes this role unique at Ford?

Unlike consumer Android, you'll tackle automotive-grade challenges: real-time constraints, safety certification (ISO 26262), and integration with vehicle CAN bus systems.

How does Ford support work-life balance?

Hybrid flexibility, unlimited wellness days, and on-site fitness centers promote sustainability.

Ready to drive Ford's Android innovation? Apply today and shape the future of mobility. (Word count: 1,248)