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Job Analysis:
This Research Engineer role at Meta FAIR is fundamentally about advancing the frontier of AI by developing sophisticated world models that enable machines to understand and predict physical environments, particularly through video inputs. The candidate is expected not only to contribute technically but also to push research innovations that blend machine learning, computer vision, reinforcement learning, and control systems within a robotics context. Success hinges on the ability to operate at the intersection of theory and scalable system design — designing experiments, managing large datasets, and building optimized tooling to accelerate research outcomes. Strong collaboration across diverse scientific and engineering teams is essential, given the cross-functional nature of FAIR’s projects. The role also demands a high level of autonomy in decision-making around research direction, experimental methods, and software infrastructure, while balancing the need for open dissemination of results and reproducibility. Candidates with a solid mix of software engineering skills (Python, PyTorch, optionally C++ and CUDA), hands-on research experience, and deep domain expertise in areas like self-supervised learning or model-based planning will thrive. Performance within the first year likely involves demonstrating new algorithmic innovations, contributing to top-tier publications, mentoring peers, and developing infrastructure that improves both the fidelity and efficiency of embodied AI models.
Company Analysis:
Meta, particularly through its Fundamental AI Research division, stands as a globally recognized leader in large-scale AI innovation and foundational research with a strong focus on long-term impact. This environment is highly dynamic, intellectually rigorous, and mission-driven, aiming to pioneer next-generation AI paradigms like world models for embodied agents. The culture favors deep technical excellence, continuous learning, collaboration, and openness — reflected in its emphasis on publishing research and releasing high-quality open-source code. Working at Meta FAIR means engaging with some of the brightest minds in the AI research community, implying a high-performance climate that can be simultaneously challenging and rewarding. The Seattle role connects to a larger cross-disciplinary ecosystem, providing visibility to both engineering leadership and scientific peers, thus amplifying influence across the research landscape. Meta’s strategic direction suggests this role is pivotal in progressing AI models that could redefine how intelligent agents perceive and interact with the world, making this not just an engineering position but a key contributor to Meta’s future AI vision and product applicability.