Staff Embedded Software Engineer

Irvine, California EV Full-time Posted Sep 28, 2026
Apply on Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies (opens in a new tab) Sourced via jobs.ashbyhq.com · Posted 2026-09-28

About this role

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is hiring a Staff Embedded Software Engineer, full-time, on-site in Irvine, California, in the EV sector.

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 a dedicated and innovative Staff Body Controls Engineer to join our software development team. This role is integral to the development and integration of control systems for various vehicle functions, including closures, lighting, seating, and accessory devices. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with a focus on automotive lighting control systems, and will demonstrate leadership in driving projects and mentoring junior engineers.

Responsibilities

  • Technical Leadership: Lead the architecture and development of advanced control systems for automotive lighting systems, with experience in advanced automotive lighting feature sets.

  • Review and refine requirements, producing high-level functional specification designs to offer innovative control solutions.

  • Develop a validation strategy, devise a plan, and spearhead the calibration process at the feature level to ensure the successful delivery of the complete vehicle feature set.

  • Create and oversee the development of comprehensive test cases and scripts to validate features in Unit test, Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) test, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test environments.

  • Collaborate with other controls engineers and cross-functional teams to enhance or create simulation models for analyzing, optimizing, and troubleshooting different aspects of the vehicle.

  • Work closely with the engineering team to ensure software robustness and seamless integration of new features, driving best practices in software development.

  • Utilize a multidisciplinary approach to troubleshoot complex functional problems within our vehicles by addressing root causes across physical, electrical, and software domains.

  • Project Management: Oversee multiple projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications, while managing resources and budgets effectively.

  • Prioritize and escalate issues based on user impact and program objectives for prompt resolution, demonstrating strong decision-making skills.

  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within the engineering team.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering; Master's degree preferred.

  • 7+ years of experience working with automotive control systems, with a proven track record of leading projects.

  • Deep understanding of embedded systems architecture and real-time operating systems (RTOS).

  • In-depth knowledge of control theory principles & algorithm design, including compensator design and PID tuning.

  • Expertise in C programming languages as well as Python, with a focus on developing scalable and maintainable code.

  • Strong knowledge of software development lifecycle and methodologies, including Agile and Scrum. Experience with tools for requirements management, revision control, issue management systems like JIRA, JAMA, Git

  • Familiarity with failure analysis methodologies such as FMEA and fault trees, with experience in leading FMEA sessions.

  • Proficiency in CAN/LIN/ETH tools like Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, CANape, etc., along with a deep understanding of embedded hardware & software design.

  • Demonstrated creativity in design work coupled with hands-on building abilities, with a portfolio of successful projects.

  • Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence and drive change.

  • Willingness to travel up to 20% as required.

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 .

External candidates can apply for this role through the Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies careers site ( https://rivianvw.tech/#careers ). If you are a current employee, please apply through our internal job board .

Equal Opportunity

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 candidateaccommodations@rivian.com.

<

Description from Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies's official posting. Always confirm details on the company careers page.

Apply on Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies Applications go directly to Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies. Curated by Larry Sherwood Jr.

About Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies

Company in the mobility sector tracked nightly on the Mobility Jobs board.

Ready to apply?
Apply on Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies (opens in a new tab) You'll be redirected to jobs.ashbyhq.com to complete your application.

Not the one? Get new EV roles by email, weekday mornings, only when something new lands.

Larry Sherwood Jr.

About Larry Sherwood Jr.

Talent Acquisition Leader specializing in mobility, EV, and frontier tech. 1,000+ hires across roles ranging from production technicians to VPs, including 48 hires for the AFEELA U.S. launch at Sony Honda Mobility (98% offer acceptance, $1.5M+ agency savings). SHRM-CP certified. Build recruiting functions from scratch, no agencies.

SONY HONDA MOBILITYFISKERSHRM-CP1,000+ HIRES

Currently open to senior TA leadership roles in the United States. larrysherwoodjr.com · Resume (PDF)

Read Larry's guides →
Job no longer open? Let me know

Curated by Larry Sherwood Jr. on the free Mobility Jobs board. Pulled nightly from company applicant tracking systems. Apply directly on the source link above to be considered.