About the job
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies have joined forces in Palo Alto to advance electric vehicle innovation. This partnership brings together expertise in operating systems, zonal controllers, and cloud connectivity, aiming to set new standards for software-defined vehicles. The team addresses complex challenges in EVs, focusing on connectivity, AI, and security to build more intelligent and sustainable mobility solutions.
Role overview
The Hardware Systems Performance Engineer - Connectivity works closely with the Hardware Systems Architecture team to assess and optimize the performance of low-voltage electrical (LVE) systems in Rivian vehicles. The position influences hardware architecture decisions early in development and validates system designs in later phases. A strong grasp of systems software is essential to identify and measure performance metrics, anticipate design risks, and confirm that system performance meets established requirements. Areas of focus include wireless connectivity and passive/keyless vehicle access systems (VAS).
What you will do
- Collaborate with hardware architecture, design, and software teams to create thorough plans for measuring key performance metrics, identifying system bottlenecks, and validating performance against requirements.
- Lead the design, integration, and automation of characterization and validation activities across a range of hardware testing environments, including early prototypes, lab vehicles, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) setups.
- Manage the full process of systems performance characterization, from developing requirements to finding solutions and automating processes. This includes integrating hardware and software, building data acquisition pipelines, and developing downstream data processing infrastructure.

