Senior Advanced Development Engineer

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is seeking an advanced development engineer to lead early proof-of-concept work, integrating components and software into test assets and supervising hands-on prototype efforts.

You will collaborate with software and hardware engineers to mature concepts, while traveling as needed to support project goals and cross-functional teams across automotive systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive systems, or related fields.
• At least 5 year of experience with automotive systems
• Extensive hands-on experience with early prototypes
• Familiarity with software development processes and debugging
• Familiarity with ecu development and debugging
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Willingness to travel

Responsibilities

• Assist with the design and build of advanced development bucks, mules, and benches
• Lead integration of new components and software into advanced development test assets
• Work hands on with early prototype integration
• Test performance of early prototypes
• Work closely with software and hardware engineers to mature proof of concepts

Skills

Automotive systems

Prototype testing

Cross-functional collaboration

Software debugging

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive systems, or related fields

Job description

About Us

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is a joint venture between two industry leaders with a clear vision for automotive’s next chapter. From operating systems to zonal controllers to cloud and connectivity solutions, we’re addressing the challenges of electric vehicles through technology that will set the standards for software-defined vehicles around the world.

The road to the future is uncharted. By combining our expertise across connectivity, AI, security and more, we’ll map a new way forward. Working together, we’ll create a future that’s more connected, more intelligent, more sustainable for everyone.

Role Summary

As an advanced development engineer you will be responsible for the execution of early proof of concepts required to prove feasibility of new architectures or features. This includes the integration, commissioning, and on-going support of early mules, bucks, or benches required to demonstrate functionality. This role will be responsible for the leadership and execution of these proof of concepts but will work closely with domain experts as needed per project.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the design and build of advanced development bucks, mules, and benches
• Lead integration of new components and software into advanced development test assets
• Work hands on with early prototype integration
• Test performance of early prototypes
• Work closely with software and hardware engineers to mature proof of concepts

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive systems, or related fields
• At least 5 year of experience with automotive systems
• Extensive hands-on experience with early prototypes
• Familiarity with software development processes and debugging
• Familiarity with ecu development and debugging
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Willingness to travel

Total Rewards

We build the exceptional — and we believe the people doing that work should be rewarded accordingly. In addition to a competitive base salary, full-time positions may be is eligible to participate in our annual company performance bonus program.

Payments are discretionary and not guaranteed; actual amounts depend on company results and the terms of the plan in effect, and require active employment at the time of payout. This role is also eligible for equity in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), subject to board approval and the terms of our equity incentive plans, including applicable vesting requirements.

In addition to our compensation programs, we invest in our people with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, wellbeing, and financial future for full‑time employees — including health coverage, retirement savings, time off, and family planning programs. Offerings vary by country. Learn more about our global benefit programs.

Equal Opportunity

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are also committed to ensuring compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws regarding citizenship and immigration status.

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at [e-mail].