Software Engineering Intern, Embedded Platforms - Fall 2026

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual performance bonus

Equity eligibility

Benefits tailored to local market

Job summary

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is seeking interns to work on vehicle electronics, designed for core software on ECUs. Interns will engage in full-time roles expected from September 21 to December 18, based in either Palo Alto or Irvine, CA.

Candidates should be enrolled in a relevant degree program and possess strong proficiency in C++. Additional experience in embedded systems, along with knowledge of RTOS and Linux environments, is preferred. This position offers a dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program at an accredited US university.
• Proficiency in C++.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy embedded software on Linux/Android and/or RTOS for electronic hardware.
• Contribute to the implementation of Hardware Abstraction Layers (HALs).
• Design and build highly complex systems for improved user interaction.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams on software initiatives.

Skills

Proficiency in C++

Experience with scripting languages (Python, Shell, Go)

Experience in Embedded Software Development

Understanding of Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) fundamentals

Familiarity with embedded Linux environments

Experience with interface protocols (CAN, Ethernet, SPI, I2C)

Experience in automotive systems and applications

Education

Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program

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

We are seeking interns passionate about the foundational stack that powers vehicle electronics. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and debugging core software running on ECUs (Electronic Control Units) and embedded Linux/RTOS environments. You will directly contribute to the software stack for verification and board bring-up efforts for next-generation vehicle platforms.

Program Details

• Timeline: Full-time, September 21 – December 18
• Location: Palo Alto, CA or Irvine, CA

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy embedded software on Linux/Android and/or Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) for electronic hardware.
• Contribute to the implementation and optimization of Hardware Abstraction Layers (HALs) for vehicle hardware interaction.
• Design and build highly complex systems spanning multiple domains that bring improved functionality and better performance to how users interact with our vehicles.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams (Charging, Body Controls, EE/Hardware teams) on software initiatives.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program at an accredited US university.
• Proficiency in C++.

Preferred Qualifications

• Actively pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical field with the intent to return to school following completion of internship.
• Experience with scripting languages (Python, Shell, Go).
• Experience in Embedded Software Development.
• Understanding of Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) fundamentals.
• Familiarity with embedded Linux environments.
• Familiarity with kernel-level development or automotive communication protocols.
• Experience with interface protocols (CAN, Ethernet, SPI, I2C).
• Experience in automotive systems and applications.

Total rewards

Full-time positions include base salary, eligibility for an annual performance bonus, and eligibility for equity. In addition to base salary, Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies offers benefits tailored to the local market. For more information on the benefits available for full-time employees, check out our Global Benefits Site.

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 that requires accommodations, please email us at [e-mail].