About this role
At WHOOP, we’re on a mission to unlock human performance and healthspan. WHOOP empowers members to perform at a higher level and live longer through a deeper understanding of their bodies and daily lives.
We are seeking an Associate Director of Engineering, Core Algorithms to define and lead WHOOP’s strategy for transforming physiological sensor data into real-time, production-grade intelligence. This role owns the technical vision and execution for core algorithm systems that power member-facing experiences across generations of WHOOP devices.
You will operate at the intersection of machine learning, signal processing, and embedded systems, defining multi-year technical direction, scaling high-performing teams, and shaping how WHOOP delivers differentiated edge intelligence at scale. You will lead teams driving innovation in on-device intelligence, translating complex physiological data into scalable, high-quality insights while navigating tradeoffs across accuracy, latency, and efficiency. Your leadership will directly influence how WHOOP delivers meaningful, member-centric experiences across product generations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Lead and scale high-performing teams of machine learning and signal processing engineers, including senior ICs and tech leads
Define and drive the roadmap for core algorithm systems and on-device intelligence
Guide key architectural and technical tradeoffs across accuracy, latency, power, and system constraints
Deliver end-to-end sensor-driven features from research through production deployment
Drive cross-functional execution across Firmware, WHOOP Labs, and Product; align stakeholders and manage complex dependencies Establish best practices for algorithm development, validation, integration, and lifecycle management
Balance long-term innovation with near-term product delivery
Develop technical leaders and foster a culture of execution excellence
QUALIFICATIONS:
Proven experience leading engineering teams in machine learning, signal processing, or embedded systems, including managing senior ICs or tech leads
Strong track record of delivering sensor-driven algorithms or systems into production environments
Experience working across hardware, firmware, and data science boundaries, with a systems-level mindset
Demonstrated ability to define and communicate technical strategy and guide teams through ambiguity
Experience driving cross-functional programs, aligning stakeholders, and influencing without direct authority
Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Passion for building teams, developing talent, and scaling engineering organizations
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience with physiological sensing (e.g., PPG, IMU, ECG) or wearable technologies
Experience optimizing models for edge deployment (e.g., quantization, latency, power constraints)
Background in health, fitness, or consumer hardware products
Experience balancing long-term innovation vs. near-term product delivery