Sr. Body Controls Engineer - Mechanism

About this role

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.

ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking a dedicated and innovative 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 control systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES

- Architect and develop control systems for vehicle mechatronics features utilizing PID control, feedforward techniques, motion profiling, and signal filtering.

- Review requirements and produce high-level functional specification designs to offer control solutions.

- Create test cases and scripts to validate features in Unit, Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test environments.

- Conduct software testing on vehicles and contribute to feature tuning and calibration.

- Support Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for ISO 26262 compliance across features.

- Collaborate with other controls engineers to enhance or create simulation models for analyzing, optimizing, and troubleshooting vehicle aspects.

- Work closely with the engineering team to ensure software robustness and seamless integration of new features.

- Develop intuitive diagnostic interfaces for controllers to facilitate troubleshooting and maintenance.

- Use a multidisciplinary approach to troubleshoot functional problems in vehicles by addressing root causes across physical, electrical, and software domains.

- Prioritize and escalate issues based on user impact and program objectives for prompt resolution.

QUALIFICATIONS

- Bachelor's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering; Master's degree preferred.

- 3+ years of experience with automotive or robotic control systems, with a focus on mechatronics.

- Knowledge of control theory principles and algorithm design, including compensator design and PID tuning.

- Strong understanding of hardware components such as DC motors, latchs and various sensor types (limit switches, pinch strips, resistance ladders, hall sensors, current sensors).

- Expertise in C, C++, and Python programming languages.

- Experience with Requirements Management Systems (e.g., JAMA/Cameo).

- Experience with Task Management Systems (e.g., JIRA).

- Experience with Source Control/Revision Control systems (e.g., Git).

- Familiarity with failure analysis methodologies such as FMEA and fault trees.

- Proficiency in CAN/LIN/ETH tools (e.g., Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, CANape) and understanding of embedded hardware and software design.

- Excellent communication skills.

- Ability to travel up to 20%.

TOTAL REWARDS

We build the exceptional — and we believe the people doing that work should be rewarded accordingly. In addition to a competitive base salary, full-time positions may be is eligible to participate in our annual company performance bonus program.

Payments are discretionary and not guaranteed; actual amounts depend on company results and the terms of the plan in effect, and require active employment at the time of payout. This role is also eligible for equity in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), subject to board approval and the terms of our equity incentive plans, including applicable vesting requirements.

In addition to our compensation programs, we invest in our people with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, wellbeing, and financial future for full-time employees — including health coverage, retirement savings, time off, and family planning programs. Offerings vary by country. Learn more about our global benefit programs https://rvtech.mybenefits.life/.

External candidates can apply for this role through the Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies careers site (https://rivianvw.tech/#careers). If you are a current employee, please apply through our internal job board https://app.ashbyhq.com/internal/job-board/b10a9912-eb45-4a84-9a34-84b2a459923a.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

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 [email protected].

CANDIDATE DATA PRIVACY

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies” may collect, use and disclose your personal information or personal data (within the meaning of the applicable data protection laws) when you…