Electronics Characterization Engineer II

Join to apply for the Electronics Characterization Engineer II role at Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies
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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.

The Electronics Test and Validation team owns the module‑level validation testing for all RV Tech electronic control units (ECUs). It is our responsibility to make sure RV Tech electronics are designed and manufactured correctly. With this goal in mind, we develop scalable tools, processes, hardware, and software solutions deployed for characterization, validation, and manufacturing. In this role, you’ll be an individual contributor with a crucial role owning the design verification and characterization of vehicle electronics, with a particular focus on Zonal ECUs.

You’ll work cross‑functionally to ensure that our electronics are designed to meet module‑level requirements.

• Develop detailed design verification and characterization test plans for all phases of ECU programs with input from reliability, design, and firmware teams.
• Lead the execution of characterization testing plans according to project milestones.
• Own test coverage reports and analysis.
• Perform bench‑level characterization at IC and PCBA levels.
• Provide early feedback to design engineers regarding design decisions and testability.
• Develop and present Design for Testability (DFT) reports for ECU designs.
• Own characterization schedules to communicate status with upper management and cross‑functional teams.
• Write basic automation scripts and instrumentation drivers to speed up characterization testing using Python.
• Work with software engineers to flash, test, and troubleshoot firmware.
• Lead the cross‑functional effort to root cause non‑compliance test results during testing by leveraging data analysis.

• BS/MS or equivalent work experience in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in electronics characterization and validation testing.
• Experience using lab instrumentation like oscilloscopes, power supplies, electronic loads, digital multimeters, etc.
• Very good understanding of Electrical Engineering fundamentals.
• Working knowledge of vehicle electrical systems and communication buses.
• Experience in scripting and data analysis using Python.

• Familiar with low‑level firmware and C programming.
• Experience in Databricks or similar environment.
• Experience with automated test equipment.

Salary Range Irvine, California-Based Applicants
: $96,700 - $120,900 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Salary Range Palo Alto, California-Based Applicants
: $105,100 - $131,400 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies provides robust medical/Rx, dental, and vision insurance packages for full‑time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Coverage is adequate on the first day of employment, and Rivian covers most of the premiums.

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…