Sr. Software Engineer, Thermal Controls

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 dedicated and innovative Software Engineer to join our Thermal software development team. This role is integral to the development and integration of control systems for various vehicle features, including cabin cooling, cabin heating, battery cooling, battery heating, and actuator control development. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with a focus on automotive or aerospace control systems.

• Develop embedded software in C for automotive ECUs
• Architect and develop control systems for various vehicle subsystems such as refrigeration, coolant, external airflow, and HVAC to be executed on embedded controllers
• Review requirements and produce high-level functional specification designs to offer control solutions
• Create test cases and scripts to validate features in unit test, Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) test, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test environments
• Conduct software testing and calibration on vehicles
• Develop intuitive diagnostic interfaces for controllers to facilitate troubleshooting and maintenance
• Utilize a multidisciplinary approach to troubleshoot functional problems within our vehicles by addressing root causes across physical, electrical, and software domains.
• Prioritize and elevate issues based on user impact and program objectives for prompt resolution

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering 3+ years of experience working with controls development, integration, or calibration - automotive or aerospace experience preferred
• Strong proficiency in C, C++, Rust, and/or Python
• Knowledgeable about control theory principles & algorithm design like compensator design and PID tuning
• Familiar with fundamentals of heat transfer and thermodynamics
• Familiar with thermal and HVAC components including but not limited to water pumps, AC compressors, expansion valves, blower fans, and HVAC modules
• Working experience in firmware integration, calibration, vehicle-level testing, and/or SW debugging at the feature level
• Working experience with requirements management tools (Jama, Doors, or equivalent) preferred
• Working experience with issue tracking tools (Jira or equivalent) preferred
• Working experience with communication bus monitoring tools (Vector CANalyzer or equivalent) preferred

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for California Based Applicants: $135,100 - $168,900 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 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…