Engineering Technician, Prototypes

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.

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented professional who thrives in new and ambiguous situations that demand innovative problem‑solving techniques. In this role, you will support development and validation teams to design, build, commission, and maintain HIL (Hardware-in-Loop) and similar subsystem assets, ensuring their timely delivery to support program development goals. This is a highly centralized role within the organization, you will be a strong advocate and example of collaboration across development teams within and outside of the organization while solving challenges.

• Support build of early electrical system prototypes and equipment racks from assembly to commissioning and comprehensive troubleshooting.
• Support design, design reviews and build of prototype harnesses, including logical, physical design, and build using industry best practices.
• Support design, design reviews and build of prototype mechanical structures, including drawings, light fabrication and assembly as needed.
• Ensure all builds meet project requirements for quality and build specification.
• Coordinate across complimentary teams in the organization to leverage the full range of support available for project goals.
• Support as needed when outsourcing design or assembly during peak demand periods and act as technical liaison with the supplier, ensuring high alignment and quality of delivered product.
• Lead commissioning of prototype assets by performing safety checks, uploading software, performing system level functional checks and troubleshooting as needed.
• Coordinate ongoing maintenance of the prototype fleet. Log and track all updates to ensure all assets are fully representative of the latest design revision.
• Own shop equipment and specialized tooling maintenance and upkeep.
• Coordinate to maximize prototype fleet uptime by supporting scheduled functional checks and diagnosing system‑level issues as they arise.

• Technical/ vocational certificate in‑vehicle systems or related field
• 3+ Hands‑on experience designing, building and troubleshooting complex electromechanical systems in early development stages
• 3+ Years of experience working with Software and Hardware
• Experience building harnesses and performing high‑quality crimps (IPC‑620 Certification a plus)
• Strong electrical system troubleshooting skillset required and comfortable interpreting schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Experience collaborating with engineering teams is preferred.
• Familiarity with prototype manufacturing techniques and their application (including 3D printing, machining, and welding) is preferred.
• Familiarity with configuring network interfaces on Windows and Linux PCs is preferred.
• Experience with basic mechanical design and CAD preferred
• Ability to thrive under pressure and apply creative and critical thinking to deliver exceptional results
• Good team player with excellent communication

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Palo Alto Based Applicants: $93,000 - $116,300 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Irvine Based Applicants: $85,600 - $107,000 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Benefits

Summary:

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies provides robust medical/Rx, dental and vision insurance packages for full‑time and part‑time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Full Time Employee coverage is…