Controls Architect & 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.

As a Staff Controls Architect, you will provide deep technical guidance and strategic direction for complex vehicle control subsystems, such as advanced driver‑assistant systems (ADAS) or lighting controls. You will be responsible for defining the systems architecture, deriving top-down functional safety requirements (FuSa), and ensuring compliance with industry standards like ISO 26262
. This role requires exceptional leadership, systems thinking, and the ability to mentor senior engineers.

• Lead the architecture and development of advanced control systems for key vehicle functions (e.g., automotive lighting systems or ADAS motion controls).

• Review and refine requirements, producing high‑level functional specification designs to offer innovative control solutions.

• Derive Functional Requirements and Attributes top‑down for sub‑systems, components (Electrical and Software) using first‑principles approach.

• Contribute towards functional safety concepts (FuSa) compliant with ISO 26262 guidelines
  .

• Create and oversee the development and integration of vehicle control systems for vehicle features, including high and low voltage battery, thermal, body controls, and motion controls.

• Lead trouble‑shooting issues with an exceptional sense of quality and in‑depth root cause analyses.

• Oversee multiple complex projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications.

• Partner with multiple cross‑functional stakeholders and excel at communicating technical, complex concepts clearly.

• Mentor and guide junior and senior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science, a relevant technical field or equivalent practical experience.

• Proficiency in C programming languages as well as Python.

• Understanding of critical safety standards such as ISO
  26262 compliance.

• Experience working with CAN, LIN, UDS, DoIP communication protocols.

• Develop and test scalable controls software.

• Experience with Microcontroller and PID (proportional–integral–derivative controller).

Preferred Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience working with automotive control systems, with a proven track record of leading projects is preferred.

• Understanding of embedded systems architecture and real‑time operating systems (RTOS).

• Experience performing DFMEA and /or STPA
  .

• Experience leveraging analytic tools (e.g.,
  Vector CANalyzer/CANape or similar automotive data/logging platforms) for large‑scale data review.

• Experience troubleshooting complex field issues with developer‑driven field data analytics.

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for California Based Applicants: $167,400 - $209,300 USD (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 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,…