Sr Software Engineer in Test

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies•Palo Alto, CA

13d•$146,610 - $220,300•Onsite

About The Position

Rivian VW Tech is forging the future of electric mobility, and we are building a world-class team to develop and integrate cutting-edge manufacturing systems. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Sr Software Engineer in Test to be the foundational member to join our End-to-End (E2E) Validation team. This critical role will be instrumental in creating tools and infrastructure for validating our 24/7 Manufacturing Systems integration across Rivian and Volkswagen technologies - which enable us to move fast and be confident the deployed system is of high quality. As the team is still small, you will have a unique opportunity to shape the team's direction, establish best practices, and eventually grow into more senior positions. As the Sr Software Engineer in Test, you will be creating test frameworks, test infrastructure as well as production monitoring systems in collaboration with DevOps and development teams. Leveraging a first-principles mindset and industry best practices, you will architect, design and implement validation software with the option to use AI-assisted tools as well. This role requires a strong technical background, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse engineering teams. This role is located out of our Palo Alto, California Office and reports directly to the Sr. Staff Software Engineer.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
5+ years of progressive experience in software testing, with a significant focus on system integration and E2E validation.
Strong understanding and practical experience with system engineering practices, including requirements authoring, failure analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys), and comprehensive test development.
Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing robust test frameworks and automation strategies for complex systems.
Deep understanding of agile software development processes and methodologies.
Experience in testing automotive commissioning tools and processes is highly preferred.
Proficiency with database technologies such as SQL Server and Postgres.
Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS), containerization technologies (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker), and networking principles.
Strong proficiency in Python language, Playwright and PyTest test framework
Experience with GitLab and Argo CI/CD system
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences
Proven ability to work effectively within a cross-functional team environment and build strong working relationships.
Demonstrated experience leading technical initiatives and driving them to successful completion.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
A proactive and results-oriented mindset with a strong drive to exceed expectations and meet critical deadlines.
High level of integrity and a commitment to quality.

Nice To Haves

Experience within the manufacturing, automotive, or equivalent complex, 24/7 operational industries is highly desirable.
Proven experience in testing Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and their integration with other enterprise systems is a strong plus.
Experience with the software lifecycle and deployment considerations within automotive manufacturing environments is a strong plus as well.
Understanding of vehicle diagnostics, configuration, and software flashing processes is an advantage.

Responsibilities

Architect, develop, and optimize a scalable and maintainable testing framework in different layers - unit, integration, E2E and product monitoring (potentially building upon or integrating with existing "MARS" framework) - tailored for the complexities of automotive plant MES and vehicle software commissioning tools.
Facilitate cross-functional discussions with commissioning, manufacturing tooling, and vehicle software teams to ensure alignment and consistency in the testing ecosystem, methodologies, and tools.
Establish and enforce end-to-end traceability of requirements, code changes, and test cases to ensure comprehensive validation coverage and facilitate impact analysis.
Define and document comprehensive test guidelines, best practices, and standards for the E2E validation team and broader engineering organization.
Design and implement efficient workflows for tracking the proper execution of testing activities, including test planning, execution, defect management, and reporting.
Expertly evaluate test results, perform in-depth analysis of failures, and collaborate closely with software development teams to effectively root cause and resolve defects.
Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement, tool enhancements, and automation to elevate the efficiency and effectiveness of the E2E validation process.