System Lead Engineer

Job title: System Lead Engineer

About the Role We are seeking a highly skilled System Lead Engineer to lead the design and integration of In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) and Cockpit Domain Controller systems for the Japanese automotive market. You will serve as the primary technical interface for local OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, ensuring regional requirements are captured and implemented, while aligning with Harman's global platform strategies to drive innovation, compliance, and scalability.

What You'll Do

• Lead System Architecture: Define and maintain the E/E architecture for IVI and cockpit domain controllers, including domain controllers, ECUs, sensors, and communication networks. Ensure scalability and modularity for future vehicle platforms.
• Collaborate Across Regions: Act as the primary technical interface for Japanese OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers while working closely with Harman’s global engineering teams and architects to align local requirements with global platform strategies.
• Network & Communication Design: Design in-vehicle communication networks (CAN, LIN, Ethernet, MOST), define gateway strategies, bandwidth requirements, and latency constraints. Ensure compatibility with diagnostic protocols (UDS, DoIP) and cybersecurity standards.
• Functional Safety & Compliance: Ensure compliance with ISO 26262 functional safety and ISO/SAE 21434 cybersecurity standards. Collaborate with safety engineers to define ASIL levels and safety mechanisms.
• IVI Platform Integration: Support integration of Android Automotive OS, QNX, and Linux-based IVI platforms into vehicle architectures. Ensure compatibility with displays, touchscreens, audio systems, and connectivity modules.
• Performance Optimization & Debugging: Troubleshoot UI responsiveness, connectivity failures, and system crashes using tools like adb, logcat, CANoe, and Wireshark. Optimize boot time, memory usage, and CPU performance.
• Connectivity & Protocol Validation: Validate wireless interfaces (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular, GNSS) and smartphone projection technologies (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto). Support communication protocols like CAN, LIN, Ethernet AVB, and MOST.
• Cross-Domain Coordination: Align architecture across infotainment, ADAS, powertrain, and connectivity domains. Coordinate hardware-software co-design and interface with mechanical and thermal teams for packaging feasibility.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Lead technical discussions, RFQs, architecture reviews, and platform strategy sessions with OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers. Provide technical leadership in innovation workshops and forums.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in automotive system architecture or embedded systems.
• Strong knowledge of IVI systems, cockpit domain controllers, and automotive electronics.
• Expertise in Linux/QNX, hypervisors, and virtualization technologies.
• Familiarity with AUTOSAR, functional safety (ISO 26262), and cybersecurity.
• Experience with SoC platforms (Qualcomm, NVIDIA, Renesas).
• Fluent in Japanese and English (both written and spoken).
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across global and local teams.

Nice to Have

• Experience with ADAS integration and vehicle networking (CAN, Ethernet).
• Knowledge of cloud connectivity, OTA updates, and HMI frameworks.
• Prior experience working with OEMs or Tier-1 suppliers in Japan.

Compensation & Benefits

• Flexible work environment, allowing for full-time remote work globally for positions that can be performed outside a HARMAN or customer location.
• Access to employee discounts on Harman and Samsung products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG).
• Extensive training opportunities through HARMAN University.
• Competitive wellness benefits.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• “Be Brilliant” employee recognition and rewards program.
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters professional development and personal growth.