Sr Staff Engineer, RF Validation

Cariad, Inc.; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 182,310 - 264,195; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with employer match

Tuition reimbursement

Unique vehicle lease program

Job summary

An automotive software developer in Mountain View, CA, is seeking a Sr Staff Engineer for RF Validation. The role involves testing and validating RF systems, requiring over 10 years of experience in RF design and a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering. Candidates should be skilled with RF test equipment and familiar with automotive applications. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $182,310 to $264,195 and a comprehensive benefits package including performance-based bonuses and tuition reimbursement.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in RF design, testing, and validation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Deep understanding of RF circuit design and testing.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute RF validation test plans.
• Conduct RF measurements and troubleshooting.
• Perform EMI/EMC testing and ensure compliance.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Influencing skills

Strategic vision

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering

Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Network analyzers

Spectrum analyzers

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

Job description

We are CARIAD, an automotive software development team with the Volkswagen Group. Our mission is to make the automotive experience safer, more sustainable, more comfortable, more digital, and more fun. We’re looking for talented, digital minds like you to help us create code that moves the world. Together with you, we’ll build outstanding digital experiences and products for all Volkswagen Group brands that will transform mobility. Join us as we shape the future of the car and everyone around it.

Role Summary

The Sr Staff Engineer, RF Validation, is responsible for the testing, validation, and optimization of RF systems and circuits within CARIAD’s Hardware Platform Development team. This role focuses on ensuring robust RF performance, EMI/EMC compliance, and seamless integration into automotive hardware platforms. The position requires close collaboration with design engineers, suppliers, and validation teams to deliver high-quality RF solutions for connected vehicles.

Testing & Validation

• Develop and execute RF validation test plans to ensure performance and reliability
• Conduct RF measurements and troubleshooting to identify issues and optimize performance
• Perform EMI/EMC testing and ensure compliance with automotive standards
• Work with suppliers and external test labs for RF certification and compliance testing
• Document test results and provide detailed reports with recommendations for improvements
• Support RF architecture and design decisions for automotive hardware platforms
• Collaborate with design teams to define RF specifications and validation requirements

Design & Development

• Support RF architecture and design decisions for automotive hardware platforms
• Collaborate with design teams to define RF specifications and validation requirements

General Skills

• Analytical and conceptual thinking
• Communication skills – interpersonal, presentation and written
• Integration – joining people, processes or systems
• Influencing and negotiation skills
• Strategic/visionary minded

Required Specialized Skills

• Highly skilled with RF test equipment (e.g., network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators)
• Deep understanding of RF circuit design, impedance matching, and transmission line theory
• Experience with PCB design for RF applications (high-frequency layout best practices)
• Familiarity with wireless standards (Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, 5G)
• Strong knowledge of EMI/EMC compliance, testing, and mitigation techniques
• Programming/scripting: Python, MATLAB; working knowledge of C/C++

Desired Skills

• Experience with RF simulation tools (ADS, HFSS, CST, or equivalent)
• Knowledge of LNAs, PAs, RF filters, and antenna design
• Background in automotive RF applications (V2X, telematics, infotainment, radar, connectivity)

Workplace Flexibility

• Occasional travel may be required

Years of Relevant Experience

• 10+ years of experience in RF design, testing, and validation (automotive background preferred)

Required Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field

Desired Education

• Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field

Compensation

Salary range is dependent on factors such as geographical differentials, credentials or certifications, industry-based experience, qualification and training. In the city of Mountain View, CA, the salary range for this position is $182,310.00 - $264,195.00.

CARIAD, Inc. provides performance based merits and annual bonus along with a competitive benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with employer match and defined contribution plan, short and long term disability, basic life and AD&DD insurance, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment plans, maternity and non-primary caregiver leave, adoption assistance, employee referral program and vacation and paid holidays. We also offer a unique vehicle lease program that covers registration and insurance fees.

CARIAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.