Sr. Software Engineer, Backend Developer

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 Senior Software Engineer on the Factory Software team, you will develop software, services, and applications to support ultra‑high‑speed manufacturing. You will identify and solve challenges by implementing cutting‑edge technologies such as machine vision, distributed message buses, and virtualization in the manufacturing process. Your software design responsibilities will include creating robust, reliable, and maintainable systems. To help Rivian produce factories efficiently, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to foster a cohesive environment.

This role involves assisting with design reviews, commissioning, and establishing deployment and test plans during new factory builds. You will monitor high‑level project goals and ensure success by identifying challenges early and proactively working to mitigate them. This position can be located at our facilities in Normal, IL, Palo Alto, CA, or Irvine, CA, and reports to the Senior Manager of Software Engineering.

• Contribute to the development of software standards and specifications by providing feedback on lessons learned and project gaps.
• Proactively review and approve merge requests (MR) with development teams.
• Guide teams in the proper deployment of Rivian software and enforce best practices.

• 5+ years of software development experience in a test‑driven environment.
• Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: C, C++, Go (preferred), Rust.
• Bachelor’s/Master’s in Software Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Experience designing software for streaming mechanisms (NATS, Kafka, Rabbit
  
  MQ, Pulsar, etc.).
• Familiarity with source control systems (e.g., Gitlab, Bitbucket) and tools like JAMA and JIRA.
• Experience with automated testing and continuous integration frameworks.
• Strong understanding of caching, authentication, authorization, and privacy considerations.
• Comfortable with SDLC best practices and version‑controlled software.
• Experience in designing and developing high‑performance software.
• Solid understanding of Linux, or real‑time operating systems.
• Experience with systematic troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Approximately 30% travel, or as required by the team.

Knowledge of Kubernetes (K8s), Git, Bazel, Jenkins, Git Lab, Vault, or automotive systems is a plus. Experience with APIs (e.g., gRPC, HTTP) and database systems. Experience working on Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) is a plus.

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Palo Alto, California‑based applicants: $146,900- $183,600 (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 persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at .