Sr Software Engineer in Test

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

RSUs

Bonus eligibility

Health coverage

401(k)

Job summary

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is seeking a Sr Software Engineer in Test to join our End-to-End Validation team in Palo Alto. You will build test frameworks, infrastructure, and production monitoring to validate 24/7 manufacturing systems across Rivian and VW tech stacks, driving high-quality deployments.

You will lead test automation efforts, collaborate with DevOps and development teams, and shape our testing practices in a fast-paced automotive tech environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in software testing, with emphasis on system integration and E2E validation.
• Experience designing robust test frameworks and automation strategies for complex systems.
• Deep understanding of agile software development processes.
• Proficiency with Python, Playwright, PyTest; experience with GitLab and Argo CI/CD.

Responsibilities

• Architect, develop, and optimize scalable testing frameworks (unit, integration, E2E) and product monitoring.
• Collaborate with commissioning, manufacturing tooling, and vehicle software teams to ensure testing ecosystem alignment.
• Establish end-to-end traceability of requirements, code changes, and tests.
• Define, document, and enforce test guidelines and standards for the team.
• Design workflows for planning, executing, defect management, and reporting.

Skills

Python

Playwright

PyTest

Test Automation

E2E Validation

Leadership

Communication

SQL

AWS

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in CS/Engineering

Tools

GitLab

Argo CD

Kubernetes

Docker

SQL Server

PostgreSQL

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

Rivian VW Tech is forging the future of electric mobility, and we are building a world-class team to develop and integrate cutting-edge manufacturing systems. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sr Software Engineer in Test to be the foundational member to join our End-to-End (E2E) Validation team. This critical role will be instrumental in creating tools and infrastructure for validating our 24/7 Manufacturing Systems integration across Rivian and Volkswagen technologies - which enable us to move fast and be confident the deployed system is of high quality. As the team is still small, you will have a unique opportunity to shape the team's direction, establish best practices, and eventually grow into more senior positions.

As the Sr Software Engineer in Test, you will be creating test frameworks, test infrastructure as well as production monitoring systems in collaboration with DevOps and development teams. Leveraging a first-principles mindset and industry best practices, you will architect, design and implement validation software with the option to use AI-assisted tools as well. This role requires a strong technical background, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse engineering teams. This role is located out of our Palo Alto, California Office and reports directly to the Sr. Staff Software Engineer.

Responsibilities

• Framework Architecture: Architect, develop, and optimize a scalable and maintainable testing framework in different layers - unit, integration, E2E and product monitoring (potentially building upon or integrating with existing "MARS" framework) - tailored for the complexities of automotive plant MES and vehicle software commissioning tools.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Facilitate cross-functional discussions with commissioning, manufacturing tooling, and vehicle software teams to ensure alignment and consistency in the testing ecosystem, methodologies, and tools.
• Traceability and Governance: Establish and enforce end-to-end traceability of requirements, code changes, and test cases to ensure comprehensive validation coverage and facilitate impact analysis.
• Best Practices and Guidelines: Define and document comprehensive test guidelines, best practices, and standards for the E2E validation team and broader engineering organization.
• Workflow and Execution: Design and implement efficient workflows for tracking the proper execution of testing activities, including test planning, execution, defect management, and reporting.
• Test Result Analysis and Root Cause: Expertly evaluate test results, perform in-depth analysis of failures, and collaborate closely with software development teams to effectively root cause and resolve defects.
• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement, tool enhancements, and automation to elevate the efficiency and effectiveness of the E2E validation process.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in software testing, with a significant focus on system integration and E2E validation.
• Strong understanding and practical experience with system engineering practices, including requirements authoring, failure analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys), and comprehensive test development.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing robust test frameworks and automation strategies for complex systems.
• Deep understanding of agile software development processes and methodologies.
• Experience in testing automotive commissioning tools and processes is highly preferred.
• Proficiency with database technologies such as SQL Server and Postgres.
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS), containerization technologies (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker), and networking principles.
• Strong proficiency in Python language, Playwright and PyTest test framework
• Experience with GitLab and Argo CI/CD system
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Proven ability to work effectively within a cross-functional team environment and build strong working relationships.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical initiatives and driving them to successful completion.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• A proactive and results-oriented mindset with a strong drive to exceed expectations and meet critical deadlines.
• High level of integrity and a commitment to quality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within the manufacturing, automotive, or equivalent complex, 24/7 operational industries is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in testing Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and their integration with other enterprise systems is a strong plus.
• Experience with the software lifecycle and deployment considerations within automotive manufacturing environments is a strong plus as well.
• Understanding of vehicle diagnostics, configuration, and software flashing processes is an advantage.

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