Contract - Engineering Program Specialist II

Cariad, Inc.•Mountain View, CA

4h•$55 - $65•Onsite

About The Position

We are CARIAD, an automotive software development team with the Volkswagen Group. Our mission is to make the automotive experience safer, more sustainable, more comfortable, more digital, and more fun. To achieve that we are building the leading tech stack for the automotive industry and creating a unified software platform for over 10 million new vehicles per year. We’re looking for talented, digital minds like you to help us create code that moves the world. Together with you, we’ll build outstanding digital experiences and products for all Volkswagen Group brands that will transform mobility. Join us as we shape the future of the car and everyone around it. Role Summary: The Engineering Program Specialist II supports the hardware development and prototype build teams by managing the movement, classification, and documentation of development hardware. This role ensures compliant shipping/receiving, accurate export control classification, and hands-on logistics execution for R&D operations and prototype builds. This role requires development of a deep understanding of logistics and compliance processes to ensure that engineering requirements are met efficiently and responsibly. The position also provides technical program management support and NPI build coordination.

Requirements

Strong organizational and documentation skills
High attention to detail and regulatory awareness
Structured, process-driven mindset
Experience with NPI builds
Exposure to hardware TPM workflows
Excellent prioritization and time management skills, capable of balancing multiple competing tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Experience with export compliance, trade compliance and customs operations including EAR/ITAR and customs processes
Knowledge of logistics, shipping/receiving, lab operations
Experience working with customs brokers and freight forwarders
Familiarity with hardware development, electronics, or automotive R&D environments
Hands-on, operational approach
2+ years of experience working in hardware development operations
Experience with export control and international shipping
Strong documentation and organizational skills
Familiarity with prototype development environments
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, International Trade, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Nice To Haves

Experience with automotive safety (ISO 26262) and cybersecurity (ISO/SAE 21434).
Background in V2X (C-V2X/DSRC), positioning improvements, or time synchronization.
Exposure to backend/cloud connectivity, data pipeline reliability, and OTA campaign orchestration.
Familiarity with certification paths (PTCRB/GCF/Carrier) and related test tooling.

Responsibilities

Determine and document technical export classifications (e.g., ECCN, EAR99, dual-use assessment) in collaboration with engineering teams and export compliance team
Maintain export compliance records and audit documentation
Assist with internal and external compliance audits
Maintain comprehensive documentation and monitor process adherence to support audit readiness and compliance requirements.
Coordinate proactively with vendors to track orders, resolve logistical challenges, and ensure timely delivery of materials.
Coordinate with customs brokers and freight forwarders to ensure compliant international shipments
Manage inbound/outbound shipments
Pack, label, prepare compliant shipments with proper documentation included.
Receive incoming packages, components, and prototype hardware
Inspect shipments for accuracy and damage
Generate commercial invoices and logistics documents
Support hardware TPMs with program management activities including scheduling, action tracking, as well as capturing notes, risks and blockers.
Identify potential process inefficiencies, risks, or blockers and propose process optimizations and actionable solutions that enhance workflow efficiency and user experience.
Facilitate cross-functional communication between engineering, compliance, and supply chain