System Lead Engineer

HARMAN’s engineers and designers are creative, purposeful and agile. As part of this team, you’ll combine your technical expertise with innovative ideas to help drive cutting-edge solutions in the car, enterprise and connected ecosystem. Every day, you will push the boundaries of creative design, and HARMAN is committed to providing you with the opportunities, innovative technologies and resources to build a successful career.

A Career at HARMAN

As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do everyday.

Introduction: A Career at HARMAN Automotive

We’re a global, multi-disciplinary team that’s putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.

• Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience
• Combine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence
• Advance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoyment

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. In this role, you will act as the primary technical interface for local OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers, ensuring that regional requirements are captured and implemented effectively. You will collaborate closely with Harman’s global engineering teams and system architects to align local solutions with global platform strategies, driving innovation, compliance, and scalability across vehicle programs. This position requires strong technical leadership, cross-cultural communication, and a deep understanding of automotive standards and emerging technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

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.

Required Qualifications

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.

Preferred Qualifications

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.

What We Offer

• 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 world-class Harman and Samsung products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.)
• Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
• Competitive wellness benefits
• Tuition reimbursement
• “Be Brilliant” employee recognition and rewards program
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development

You Belong Here

HARMAN is committed to making every employee feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. No matter what role you play, we encourage you to share your ideas, voice your distinct perspective, and bring your whole self with you – all within a support-minded culture that celebrates what makes each of us unique. We also recognize that learning is a lifelong pursuit and want you to flourish. We proudly offer added opportunities for training, development, and continuing education, further empowering you to live the career you want.

About HARMAN: Where Innovation Unleashes Next-Level Technology

Ever since the 1920s, we’ve been amplifying the sense of sound. Today, that legacy endures, with integrated technology platforms that make the world smarter, safer, and more connected.

Across automotive, lifestyle, and digital transformation solutions, we create innovative technologies that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Our renowned automotive and lifestyle solutions can be found everywhere, from the music we play in our cars and homes to venues that feature today’s most sought-after performers, while our digital transformation solutions serve humanity by addressing the world’s ever-evolving needs and demands. Marketing our award-winning portfolio under 16 iconic brands, such as JBL, Mark Levinson, and Revel, we set ourselves apart by exceeding the highest engineering and design standards for our customers, our partners and each other.

If you’re ready to innovate and do work that makes a lasting impact, join our talent community today!

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HARMAN is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or Protected Veterans status. HARMAN offers a great work environment, challenging career opportunities, professional training, and competitive compensation. (www.harman.com)

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard torace, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.