Lab 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.

We are seeking a skilled Lab Technician to join our dynamic team at Rivian and VW Group Technology. This full‑time position is critical to our mission of developing cutting‑edge electric vehicle technologies and software‑defined automotive systems. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting our testing and validation operations that directly enable breakthrough innovations in electric adventure vehicles.

• Establish and maintain Device Under Test (DUT) system test benches to execute functional acceptance testing.
• Independently set up and operate standard electronic test equipment, including power analyzers, variable power supplies, and digital multimeters.
• Diagnose, determine the root cause of, and document electronic functional failures.
• Perform wire harness assembly tasks such as crimping, pinning, soldering, and desoldering, including some surface mount technology (SMT) soldering.
• Interpret electrical schematics, drawings, and detailed vehicle harness diagrams effectively.
• Construct specialized test equipment to support the development and validation testing of automotive electronic components.
• Demonstrate a foundational understanding of network and routing principles within system architectures.
• Utilize productivity software such as Google Office Suite products, Atlassian Confluence and JIRA, JAMA, Visio, and diagramming tools like Lucidchart.
• Safely lift and move heavy boxes and equipment as needed over 50lbs.
• Undertake shipping and receiving duties, including packaging.
• Manage and maintain laboratory test equipment, including asset tracking, distribution, and inventory control.

• Technical degree or certification in electronics or a related field.
• 2‑3+ years of experience as an electronics technician.
• Proven experience in fabricating specialized test equipment, such as custom fixtures and low‑level test harnesses.
• Proficiency in using power and basic mechanical hand tools.
• Demonstrated experience with soldering and electrical lab rework procedures.
• Familiarity with prototype and fabrication shop processes.
• Familiarity with robotics programming on Arduino / Raspberry Pi.
• Experience working within an ESD‑controlled electrical test lab environment.
• Hands‑on experience with electrical testing and equipment (e.g., voltmeters, CAN diagnostics tools).
• Experience working across multiple operating systems, including macOS, Windows, Linux, and Debian‑based systems.
• Familiarity with automated test equipment architectures and automotive software development tools.
• Understanding of High Voltage (HV) and Low Voltage (LV) systems, with a strong awareness of safety protocols.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced electrical engineering (EE) lab environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and a strong dedication to completing tasks effectively.
• Proactive and hands‑on approach, with the ability to identify and address gaps as needed.

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for California Based Applicants: 93,000 USD - 116,300 USD (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 and part‑time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Full Time Employee coverage is effective on the first day of employment. Part‑Time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of…