Manager, Electronics Characterization

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 Electronics Test and Validation team owns the module‑level validation testing for all R|V Tech electronic control units (ECUs). It is our responsibility to make sure R|VTech 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 will be a technical manager for a team of electrical engineers and technicians with the crucial role of owning the electrical characterization of vehicle electronics. You’ll work cross‑functionally to ensure that our electronics are designed to meet functional and performance requirements.

• Hiring, leading, and mentoring an expert team of electrical characterization engineers and technicians
• Develop detailed characterization test plans for ECU programs, incorporating input from reliability and design teams
• Lead the execution of test plans during the different phases of design and validation
• Own test coverage reports and test data analysis
• Oversee engineers, technicians, and external partners performing bench‑level characterization at IC and PCBA levels
• Provide early feedback to design engineers regarding design decisions and their testability
• Develop and present Design for Testability (DFT) reports for ECU designs
• Coordinate test resources and own test schedules, communicating status with upper management and cross‑functional teams
• Lead the cross‑functional effort to root cause non‑compliance test results during testing by leveraging data analysis to identify and address underlying issues

• BS/MS or equivalent work experience in Electrical Engineering or related field
• 10+ years of hands‑on experience in electronics characterization and validation testing
• 5+ years of experience managing and leading a team of engineers and technicians
• Experience using lab instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, electronic loads, digital multimeters, etc.
• Knowledge of automation tools to speed up test execution and reporting
• Experience in data analysis and report generation using Python
• Extreme sense of ownership and responsibility for the overall quality and functionality of electronic components and systems developed by R|V Tech

• Experience using SQL
• Experience with Databricks or similar data management environment
• Experience with automated test equipment

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Irvine, California Based Applicants: $154,000 – $192,500 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Palo Alto, California Based Applicants: $167,400 – $209,300 (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, 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…