Prototype Engineer, System Prototypes

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.

At Rivian and Volkswagen Technologies, we are building the future of electric vehicles, and our System Prototypes team is at the forefront of this innovation. We are seeking a highly proactive and detail‑oriented Prototype Engineer who thrives in dynamic, ambiguous environments and is passionate about solving complex, real‑world engineering challenges. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in bridging the gap between cutting‑edge design and functional reality, shaping the next generation of our EV systems.

• Drive System Prototyping:
  Support the end‑to‑end design and build completion of next‑generation prototype assets, focusing on the integration of early prototype ECUs and end‑devices to enable robust system‑level hardware and software validation.
• Commission & Innovate:
  Spearhead the commissioning of early prototype systems, employing expert troubleshooting techniques to swiftly resolve issues and maintain comprehensive logs.
• Collaborate & Influence:
  Act as a central hub for technical collaboration, partnering across all development teams to diagnose and resolve complex system issues and propose innovative short‑term and long‑term design solutions.
• Optimize System Performance:
  Establish proactive test procedures and provide rapid debugging support for system issues to maximize uptime of high‑criticality assets.
• Strategic Alignment:
  Perform thorough technical vetting of asset needs, aligning them with vehicle milestones across all programs and preparing for and validating upcoming features.
• Pioneer Diagnostics:
  Provide full vehicle system diagnostics support during critical early pilot builds, tracking and communicating all findings to stakeholders and development teams.

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or a related technical field.
• 1+ years of hands‑on experience designing and troubleshooting complex electrical systems within early development stages, ideally in an automotive or similar high‑tech domain.
• Strong electrical system troubleshooting skills are essential.
• Experience reading technical drawings and electrical schematics.
• Familiarity with prototype manufacturing techniques and their practical application is a plus.
• Experience with basic mechanical design and CAD is preferred.
• Ability to thrive under pressure, applying creative and critical thinking to deliver exceptional results in a fast‑paced environment.
• A collaborative team player with excellent communication skills, capable of conveying both detailed technical explanations and high‑level status updates effectively.

Salary Range/Hourly Rate for California Based Applicants
: $107,000 - $133,700 (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 employment.

Total compensation packages for this position include base salary, eligibility for an annual performance bonus, and eligibility for equity. In addition, our benefits package has been designed to support the health and wellness of our employees. Benefit offerings include Flex Time Off, retirement savings plans as well as medical, vision and dental coverage.

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,…