Software Engineer, BCI Applications

About the role

Neuralink is at the forefront of developing innovative devices that enable a bi-directional connection with the brain. Our mission is to create technology capable of restoring mobility to individuals who are paralyzed, providing sight to the visually impaired, and transforming how humans interact with digital environments. As a Software Engineer in the BCI Applications team, you will work on developing and refining software systems that interface directly with brain-computer interfaces. This role involves close collaboration with clinical trial participants and cross-disciplinary teams to design, implement, and improve applications that decode brain signals and translate them into meaningful commands. The position is based on-site at our facilities in Austin, Texas, and South San Francisco, California, and requires a hands-on approach to software development, testing, and validation.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Collaborate directly with clinical trial participants to understand their needs and develop software applications that improve their interaction with BCI devices.
• Lead the development of innovative brain-computer interface applications, including designing new features, optimizing existing functionalities, and troubleshooting software issues to ensure reliable performance.
• Design, implement, and validate software systems through rigorous testing and iterative development processes to meet high standards of safety and efficacy.
• Work closely with cross-disciplinary teams, including hardware engineers, neuroscientists, and clinicians, to conceptualize and develop new features and user interfaces for BCI applications.
• Engage with study participants during testing phases to gather feedback, refine software, and ensure the applications meet user needs and safety requirements.
• Conduct code reviews, provide technical mentorship, and lead team discussions to uphold engineering best practices and maintain high-quality code standards.
• Develop and optimize algorithms for decoding brain activity signals, ensuring accurate and real-time processing of neural data.
• Create user experiences that enable intuitive control through brain signals, focusing on safety, reliability, and ease of use.
• Contribute to the documentation of software systems, including design specifications, testing protocols, and user manuals.
• Participate in planning, sprint reviews, and project management activities to ensure timely delivery of software milestones.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in neurotechnology, software engineering, and related fields to continuously improve application performance and safety.
• Support the integration of software with hardware components, ensuring operation across all system elements.
• Assist in troubleshooting issues during clinical trials and provide technical support to ensure smooth operation of BCI applications.
• Contribute to the development of protocols for software validation and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Work in an environment that emphasizes rapid iteration, innovation, and cross-team collaboration to accelerate the development of transformative neurotechnology.

Requirements

• Proven experience in full-stack software development, particularly in native applications for desktop, Android, or iOS platforms.
• Strong understanding of operating systems, with expertise in low latency concurrency programming, memory management, and networking.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Swift, Objective-C, Kotlin, or Java.
• Experience designing and developing user-facing software applications that are elegant, maintainable, and reliable.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver impactful projects with measurable outcomes within fast-paced development cycles.
• Exceptional engineering skills, with a track record of solving complex technical problems.
• Solid understanding of core engineering principles, including software architecture, data structures, and algorithms.
• Resourceful, adaptable, and willing to take on tasks of varying sizes and complexities.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience working in regulated environments or familiarity with medical device software standards is a plus.
• Knowledge of neural signal processing or neuroengineering is advantageous but not required.

Nice to have

• Experience in machine learning, neural networks, or neuro-engineering applications.
• Familiarity with user interface design principles, especially for medical or neurotechnology devices.
• Knowledge of software validation, verification, and compliance processes relevant to medical devices.
• Experience working with hardware integration and embedded systems.
• Understanding of ITAR regulations and handling of sensitive or export-controlled technology.

Skills & tools

• Full-stack development expertise
• Programming languages: Swift, Objective-C, Kotlin, Java
• Software testing, validation, and debugging
• Algorithm development for neural data decoding
• Experience with cross-platform development tools and frameworks
• Version control systems such as Git
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies
• Knowledge of hardware-software integration processes

Practical notes

Expected

Compensation: The anticipated base salary for this role ranges from $150,000 to $281,000 USD. Actual compensation will be determined based on individual skills, experience, and educational background. In addition to the base salary, Neuralink offers equity compensation in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to all full-time employees.

Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid holidays, commuter benefits, provided meals, a 401(k) plan (with eligibility criteria), parental leave, and flexible time off policies. The role requires on-site presence at our facilities in Austin, Texas, and South San Francisco, California, as the development involves close collaboration with hardware and clinical teams. Candidates should be prepared for a fast-paced environment that emphasizes innovation, rapid iteration, and cross-disciplinary teamwork. This position may involve working with sensitive neurotechnology data and adhering to regulatory standards, including ITAR regulations, to ensure compliance and security.