Application Guide

How to Apply for Software Engineer, Onboard Infrastructure

at Nuro

🏢 About Nuro

Nuro is pioneering autonomous delivery robots that are 100% electric, focusing on last-mile logistics to reduce emissions and traffic congestion. Unlike traditional self-driving car companies, Nuro specializes in smaller, goods-only vehicles operating at lower speeds in complex urban environments, making their technology uniquely positioned for sustainable urban logistics.

About This Role

This Software Engineer role focuses on building the core onboard infrastructure that powers Nuro's autonomous delivery robots across three key areas: Onboard Systems (platform for autonomy integration), Performance (optimizing AV software responsiveness), and Devices Platform (sensor/compute foundation). You'll be creating the reliable, high-performance software foundation that enables safe autonomous operations in real-world delivery scenarios.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves collaborating with autonomy teams to understand their platform needs, optimizing C++ code for real-time performance on Nuro's onboard computers, developing or improving device drivers for sensors, and ensuring the reliability of the software foundation that enables safe autonomous deliveries in diverse urban environments. You'll balance immediate troubleshooting of onboard systems with strategic improvements to the infrastructure platform.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Nuro Is Looking For

  • Has 2+ years of industry experience with strong C++ skills, preferably in robotics, autonomous systems, or embedded software
  • Demonstrates expertise in one or more specific areas mentioned: distributed systems, computer architecture/OS, advanced C++/Python algorithms, or highly-concurrent multi-processor environments
  • Possesses a degree in CS, EE, CE, Robotics or related field with practical experience in performance optimization and system reliability
  • Shows interest in the intersection of robotics, real-time systems, and sustainable technology applications

📝 Tips for Applying to Nuro

1

Highlight specific C++ projects involving real-time systems, robotics, or performance optimization - quantify performance improvements you've achieved

2

Tailor your resume to explicitly mention which of the three areas (Onboard Systems, Performance, Devices Platform) aligns with your experience

3

Include examples of working in highly-concurrent or multi-processor environments, especially if related to autonomous systems or robotics

4

Demonstrate understanding of Nuro's specific focus on delivery robots (not passenger vehicles) and how onboard infrastructure differs for this use case

5

Showcase projects involving sensor integration, device drivers, or inter-device protocols if applying for the Devices Platform focus area

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Explain why you're specifically interested in Nuro's delivery robot focus versus other autonomous vehicle companies", 'Detail which of the three infrastructure areas (Onboard Systems, Performance, Devices Platform) best matches your skills and why', 'Provide concrete examples of C++ optimization work in real-time or robotics contexts', "Connect your experience to Nuro's mission of sustainable urban delivery and efficient logistics"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Study Nuro's specific vehicle designs (R2 and R3) and understand their operational domains and constraints
  • → Research Nuro's partnerships with companies like FedEx, Domino's, and Kroger to understand real-world deployment scenarios
  • → Learn about the regulatory environment for autonomous delivery robots and how it differs from passenger AVs
  • → Review Nuro's technical blog posts or conference presentations about their autonomy stack and infrastructure challenges

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 C++ optimization techniques for real-time autonomous systems - expect questions about memory management, concurrency, and performance profiling
2 System design for reliable onboard infrastructure in delivery robots operating in urban environments
3 Experience with sensor-compute integration, device drivers, or inter-device communication protocols
4 Approaches to ensuring software safety and reliability in autonomous systems
5 Understanding of how onboard infrastructure differs for goods-only delivery robots versus passenger vehicles
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with generic autonomous vehicle experience without tailoring to Nuro's specific delivery robot focus and operational constraints
  • Focusing only on autonomy algorithms rather than the infrastructure/platform aspects this role specifically requires
  • Failing to demonstrate concrete C++ experience with performance optimization or systems programming relevant to robotics

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Nuro!

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