System Safety Engineer Jobs for OPT Students
System Safety Engineer jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in systems engineering, aerospace, or mechanical engineering. Many roles qualify for STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of work authorization. Defense contractors and aerospace firms are the most active hirers in this field.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Zoox is on an ambitious journey to develop a full-stack autonomous mobility solution for cities and deploy such a robotaxi solution safely and reliably. We are seeking a System Safety Engineer to perform safety analyses of complex electronic and software-based systems, specifically high performance compute. The ideal candidate will be on the Zoox's System Design and Mission Assurance (SDMA) team to identify opportunities to improve, adapt, and generally refine our safety concept, safety mechanisms to detect and mitigate hardware failures, and residual risk assessments, ensuring the safe deployment of autonomous driving technology.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Execute and own the output of the Compute Safety Analysis (FMEDA) for various compute platforms for each milestone
Respond to and aid in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for safety-related Compute Platform field failures
Collaborate with partner teams to improve diagnostic coverage against single point and multiple point latent failures on our existing hardware platform
Work with other SDMA engineers to ensure requirements are well captured and structured to account for runtime and latent failures in the sensing, perception and compute path
Perform functional safety analysis to ensure the safety concept remains compatible with the core objectives of ISO 26262
Work with partner teams to develop safety- and cost-optimized, next-generation compute architectures. Guide the selection of next-generation compute and related hardware
* Lead cross-functional technical projects, including interactions with teams such as Software, Hardware, Operations, Data Science, V&V to ensure we have the appropriate data to support our arguments and solutions that can meet our requirements
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
BS or MS in a related technical field, such as Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, etc.
Experience as a Design or Systems Engineer for complex or mission-critical systems with high levels of fail-operational redundancy
3+ years of hands-on systems, safety, or related engineering experience with a focus on analysis of safety critical high-integrity systems in Automotive, ADAS, Autonomous vehicles, Aerospace or Robotics industries
Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
PhD in a related technical field
Experience in the application of ISO 26262 (Functional Safety) and ISO 21448 (SOTIF) to L2/L3/L4/L5 ADAS and autonomous vehicles
Experience with FMEDA or FMEA for complete safety critical systems
Experience with hazard analysis, functional decomposition, validation, and verification
Experience in systems with multiple layers of redundancies (including but not limited to SIL 4 / DAL A)
Experience with simulation and modeling of physical hardware/software systems or data-driven modeling and analysis techniques
A reliability modeling background including the analysis of field data
Experience using requirements management tools such as Polarion (preferred), DOORS or Jama
* Experience with Python and/or Databricks for data analysis and visualization
COMPENSATION
- Base Salary Range: $143,000 - $232,000 a year
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position. Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
ABOUT ZOOX
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
ACCOMMODATIONS
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A FINAL NOTE
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
INTRODUCTION
Zoox is on an ambitious journey to develop a full-stack autonomous mobility solution for cities and deploy such a robotaxi solution safely and reliably. We are seeking a System Safety Engineer to perform safety analyses of complex electronic and software-based systems, specifically high performance compute. The ideal candidate will be on the Zoox's System Design and Mission Assurance (SDMA) team to identify opportunities to improve, adapt, and generally refine our safety concept, safety mechanisms to detect and mitigate hardware failures, and residual risk assessments, ensuring the safe deployment of autonomous driving technology.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Execute and own the output of the Compute Safety Analysis (FMEDA) for various compute platforms for each milestone
Respond to and aid in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for safety-related Compute Platform field failures
Collaborate with partner teams to improve diagnostic coverage against single point and multiple point latent failures on our existing hardware platform
Work with other SDMA engineers to ensure requirements are well captured and structured to account for runtime and latent failures in the sensing, perception and compute path
Perform functional safety analysis to ensure the safety concept remains compatible with the core objectives of ISO 26262
Work with partner teams to develop safety- and cost-optimized, next-generation compute architectures. Guide the selection of next-generation compute and related hardware
* Lead cross-functional technical projects, including interactions with teams such as Software, Hardware, Operations, Data Science, V&V to ensure we have the appropriate data to support our arguments and solutions that can meet our requirements
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
BS or MS in a related technical field, such as Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, etc.
Experience as a Design or Systems Engineer for complex or mission-critical systems with high levels of fail-operational redundancy
3+ years of hands-on systems, safety, or related engineering experience with a focus on analysis of safety critical high-integrity systems in Automotive, ADAS, Autonomous vehicles, Aerospace or Robotics industries
Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
PhD in a related technical field
Experience in the application of ISO 26262 (Functional Safety) and ISO 21448 (SOTIF) to L2/L3/L4/L5 ADAS and autonomous vehicles
Experience with FMEDA or FMEA for complete safety critical systems
Experience with hazard analysis, functional decomposition, validation, and verification
Experience in systems with multiple layers of redundancies (including but not limited to SIL 4 / DAL A)
Experience with simulation and modeling of physical hardware/software systems or data-driven modeling and analysis techniques
A reliability modeling background including the analysis of field data
Experience using requirements management tools such as Polarion (preferred), DOORS or Jama
* Experience with Python and/or Databricks for data analysis and visualization
COMPENSATION
- Base Salary Range: $143,000 - $232,000 a year
There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position. Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
ABOUT ZOOX
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
ACCOMMODATIONS
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A FINAL NOTE
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a System Safety Engineer
Target STEM OPT-eligible roles explicitly
System Safety Engineer positions at aerospace and defense firms frequently appear on the STEM OPT eligible occupations list. Confirm your degree CIP code qualifies before applying so you can accurately communicate your three-year authorization window to employers.
Address security clearance requirements early
Many System Safety Engineer roles require or prefer a U.S. security clearance, which F-1 OPT students cannot hold. Filter for roles at companies with cleared and uncleared tracks, and be upfront about your authorization status to avoid wasted applications.
Emphasize MIL-STD and safety methodology experience
Employers sponsoring OPT want demonstrable technical value. Highlight hands-on experience with MIL-STD-882, fault tree analysis, or FMEA in your resume. Specific methodology fluency signals you can contribute immediately and justifies the administrative overhead of OPT.
Focus on commercial aerospace and automotive sectors
Commercial aviation companies and automotive OEMs are more likely to hire OPT students than defense primes with clearance restrictions. Target companies building commercial aircraft, electric vehicles, or industrial systems, where clearance is rarely a hard requirement for safety engineers.
Communicate your full OPT timeline clearly
Many hiring managers underestimate how long STEM OPT authorization lasts. In every conversation, clarify that you have up to three years of work authorization available, giving the company substantial time to file for H-1B sponsorship before your status becomes an issue.
Use your university's engineering alumni network strategically
System Safety Engineer hiring often happens through referrals at aerospace firms and Tier 1 suppliers. Connect with alumni already working in safety-critical industries. A warm introduction from someone inside the organization significantly increases your chances of getting past initial screening filters.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as System Safety Engineers?
Yes. System Safety Engineer is a specialty occupation that typically requires a bachelor's degree or higher in systems engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field. F-1 students on OPT can work in these roles, and most qualify for the STEM OPT extension, giving up to three years of total authorization.
Do System Safety Engineer jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most do. The role falls under engineering and systems analysis CIP codes that appear on the STEM Designated Degree Program list. The key requirement is that your degree matches a qualifying CIP code on your I-20. Confirm this with your DSO before applying, since the extension is tied to your degree classification, not the job title alone.
How do security clearance requirements affect OPT students applying for System Safety Engineer roles?
This is the most common barrier in this field. Many System Safety Engineer positions at defense contractors require an active U.S. security clearance, which F-1 OPT students are not eligible to hold. Focus your search on commercial aerospace, automotive, medical device, and industrial sectors where clearance is rarely required, or look for uncleared roles at larger defense firms.
Which employers are most likely to hire OPT students as System Safety Engineers?
Commercial aerospace manufacturers, electric vehicle companies, rail and transit operators, and medical device firms hire System Safety Engineers without clearance requirements. Companies like these frequently sponsor OPT and later H-1B visas for qualified engineers. Browse System Safety Engineer openings on Migrate Mate to find employers actively hiring international students in this role.
What happens to my OPT authorization if my System Safety Engineer contract ends before my OPT expires?
You enter a 60-day grace period after your employment ends. During that window, you can find a new qualifying employer, change your visa status, or prepare to depart. On STEM OPT, unemployment is capped at 150 cumulative days total, so finding your next role quickly matters. Update your SEVIS record with your DSO as soon as your employment situation changes.
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