Electromechanical Design Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies • Palo Alto, CA

2d

About The Position

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is a joint venture focused on developing technology for electric vehicles, including operating systems, zonal controllers, and cloud and connectivity solutions. This is a general application for multiple summer 2027 internship openings across Electrical Hardware teams. Selected candidates will be matched to a specific team based on their background and interests during the interview process.

Electronic Control Units (ECUs) go through design, validation, manufacturing readiness, and release. The intern will contribute to one part of that lifecycle, which may involve circuit design, mechanical packaging, hardware validation and testing, reliability and functional safety analysis, or supplier and manufacturing readiness. Project areas vary by team and may include circuit design and component selection; ECU enclosure packaging or structural and thermal simulation; hardware validation and test automation; functional safety analyses such as FMEA or FMEDA; and supplier quality, product launch, or manufacturing readiness.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program at an accredited US university.
• Proficient in electrical engineering fundamentals.

Nice To Haves

• Pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Hardware Engineering, or a closely related field, with intent to return to school after the internship.
• Understanding of electronics, packaging, and hardware design.
• Familiarity with communication protocols such as CAN, Ethernet, USB, I2C, or SPI.
• Coursework or project experience with PCB design tools, CAD tools, or simulation software.
• Familiarity with product lifecycle management and component release processes.

Responsibilities

• Support proof-of-concept, design, or validation work for an assigned hardware project.
• Debug and troubleshoot hardware issues at the board or system level.
• Document component release information and maintain accurate design records.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering and design teams to understand requirements.
• Communicate progress and findings to the team throughout the internship.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary.
• Annual company performance bonus program eligibility for full-time positions; payments are discretionary and not guaranteed.
• Equity in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), subject to board approval and applicable plan terms.
• Comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including health coverage, retirement savings, time off, and family planning programs; offerings vary by country.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern