Sr. Hardware Platform Board Engineer; Infotainment

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.

As an Infotainment/Connectivity Hardware Platform Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, and validation of advanced hardware platforms specifically engineered to enable early software development and mitigate architectural risks for our future infotainment and connectivity systems. This is a hands‑on role that requires a deep understanding of embedded systems, high‑speed digital design, and a strong ability to collaborate cross‑functionally with software, system, and validation teams.

• Conceptualization & Design:
  Lead the architectural definition and detailed design of in‑house development boards, considering requirements from software/hardware architecture and product teams.
• Schematic Capture & Layout:
  Develop comprehensive schematics and guide PCB layout engineers to ensure optimal performance, signal integrity, and power delivery for complex digital and analog circuits.
• Component Selection:
  Evaluate and select appropriate SoCs, memory, high‑speed transceivers, power management ICs, and other components, considering performance, cost, and availability.
• Prototyping & Bring‑up:
  Oversee the fabrication of development boards and lead the initial bring‑up and debugging efforts, ensuring all hardware functionalities are verified.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with software engineers to define hardware‑software interfaces, debug issues, and optimize performance. Collaborate with system architects to translate high‑level requirements into feasible hardware designs.
• Documentation:
  Create detailed design specifications, test reports, and other technical documentation.
• Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis:
  Diagnose and resolve complex hardware issues, utilizing various debugging tools and methodologies.
• Stay Current:
  Keep abreast of the latest advancements in automotive electronics, infotainment technologies, and relevant industry standards.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in hardware design and development, preferably in automotive infotainment, consumer electronics, aerospace or data centers.
• Proven experience in designing and bringing up complex multi‑layer PCBs for high‑speed digital applications.
• Strong proficiency in schematic capture and PCB layout tools (e.g., Altium Designer, Cadence Allegro).
• Deep understanding of signal integrity, power integrity, and EMI/EMC principles.
• Experience with various communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet, CAN, LIN, USB, PCIe, SERDES, MIPI CSI/DSI, Display Port).
• Hands‑on experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, logic analyzers, and protocol analyzers.
• Familiarity with embedded software development processes and debugging tools.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a methodical approach to debugging.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a cross‑functional team environment.

• Experience with SoC down‑selection processes for product development, including defining requirements, evaluating vendor roadmaps, and making informed decisions.
• Ability to conduct comprehensive trade studies for hardware architectures and component selection, considering factors such as performance, power, cost, reliability, and time‑to‑market.
• Proven experience working directly with or for SoC vendors and manufacturers, including managing technical relationships, understanding their product offerings, and influencing future roadmaps.
• F…