Body Controls Engineer, Lighting

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 Staff Body Controls Engineer to join our software development team. This role is integral to the development and integration of control systems for various vehicle functions, including closures, lighting, seating, and accessory devices. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with a focus on automotive lighting control systems, and will demonstrate leadership in driving projects and mentoring junior engineers.

• Technical Leadership:
  Lead the architecture and development of advanced control systems for automotive lighting systems, with experience in advanced automotive lighting feature sets.
• Review and refine requirements, producing high‑level functional specification designs to offer innovative control solutions.
• Develop a validation strategy, devise a plan, and spearhead the calibration process at the feature level to ensure the successful delivery of the complete vehicle feature set.
• Create and oversee the development of comprehensive test cases and scripts to validate features in Unit test, Software‑in‑the‑Loop (SIL) test, and Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HIL) test environments.
• Collaborate with other controls engineers and cross‑functional teams to enhance or create simulation models for analyzing, optimizing, and troubleshooting different aspects of the vehicle.
• Work closely with the engineering team to ensure software robustness and seamless integration of new features, driving best practices in software development.
• Utilize a multidisciplinary approach to troubleshoot complex functional problems within our vehicles by addressing root causes across physical, electrical, and software domains.
• Project Management:
  Oversee multiple projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications, while managing resources and budgets effectively.
• Prioritize and elevate issues based on user impact and program objectives for prompt resolution, demonstrating strong decision‑making skills.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within the engineering team.

• Expertise in C programming languages as well as Python, with a focus on developing scalable and maintainable code.
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering;
  Master's degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience working with automotive control systems, with a proven track record of leading projects.
• Deep understanding of embedded systems architecture and real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• In‑depth knowledge of control theory principles & algorithm design, including compensator design and PID tuning.
• Strong knowledge of software development lifecycle and methodologies, including Agile and Scrum. Experience with tools for requirements management, revision control, issue management systems like JIRA, JAMA, Git
• Familiarity with failure analysis methodologies such as FMEA and fault trees, with experience in leading FMEA sessions.
• Proficiency in CAN/LIN/ETH tools like Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, CANape, etc., along with a deep understanding of embedded hardware & software design.
• Demonstrated creativity in design work coupled with hands‑on building abilities, with a portfolio of successful projects.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence and drive change.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% as required.

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Palo Alto, California Based Applicants: $186,000 to $235,500 USD…