Climate Control Systems Engineer

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.

The Thermal Control System Team develops advanced algorithms to optimize thermal management for powertrains, battery packs using heat pumps, and cabin HVAC systems. In this role, you will collaborate closely with designers, engineers, manufacturing teams, firmware developers, and service personnel, leveraging your expertise in climate control to define requirements for embedded software implementation.

• Act as systems engineer and drive the development of software for automotive climate control system
• Use modeling tools to model the thermodynamic behavior and human comfort aspects of an automotive HVAC system
• Collaborate with hardware engineering to develop framework and requirements for control software development
• Translate high‑level feature requests into detailed controller software, sensor, and actuator requirements, driving implementation, testing, and release
• Research and analyze various control algorithms; develop control‑oriented simulation models to refine control strategies
• Create and maintain system boundary diagrams, function allocation documents, state machines, sequence diagrams, and failure analysis

• BS / MS in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
• Experience in software architecture and requirement management tools (JAMA, DOORS, etc.)
• Foundation in heat transfer and thermodynamics, with familiarity in heat exchangers, blowers, fans, air control valves and their subsystem interactions
• Proficient in control systems fundamentals and their application to the thermal/ HVAC domain is required
• Knowledge and experience in automotive or building climate control system and air flow controls development
• Understanding of aspects of human thermal comfort and its application to controlling HVAC systems
• Strong analytical skills with experience handling large datasets in MATLAB/Python; familiarity with C/C++ is a plus
• Proven ability to collaborate cross‑functionally, engage in hands‑on work, and manage open‑ended projects in fast‑paced, resource‑constrained environments
• Proficiency in German Language is a bonus

Salary Range for Irvine, California Based Applicants: $135,100 - $168,900 per year (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Salary Range for Palo Alto, California Based Applicants: $146,900 - $183,600 per year (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 effective on the first day of employment.

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 and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for…