Sr Staff Engineer, RF Validation

Cariad, Inc. • Mountain View, CA

23h • $182,310 - $264,195

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 Sr Staff Engineer, RF Validation, is responsible for the testing, validation, and optimization of RF systems and circuits within CARIAD’s Hardware Platform Development team. This role focuses on ensuring robust RF performance, EMI/EMC compliance, and seamless integration into automotive hardware platforms. The position requires close collaboration with design engineers, suppliers, and validation teams to deliver high-quality RF solutions for connected vehicles.

Requirements

• Highly skilled with RF test equipment (e.g., network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators)
• Deep understanding of RF circuit design, impedance matching, and transmission line theory
• Experience with PCB design for RF applications (high-frequency layout best practices)
• Familiarity with wireless standards (Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, LTE, 5G)
• Strong knowledge of EMI/EMC compliance, testing, and mitigation techniques
• Programming/scripting: Python, MATLAB; working knowledge of C/C++
• 10+ years of experience in RF design, testing, and validation (automotive background preferred)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field

Nice To Haves

• Experience with RF simulation tools (ADS, HFSS, CST, or equivalent)
• Knowledge of LNAs, PAs, RF filters, and antenna design
• Background in automotive RF applications (V2X, telematics, infotainment, radar, connectivity)
• Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute RF validation test plans to ensure performance and reliability
• Conduct RF measurements and troubleshooting to identify issues and optimize performance
• Perform EMI/EMC testing and ensure compliance with automotive standards
• Work with suppliers and external test labs for RF certification and compliance testing
• Document test results and provide detailed reports with recommendations for improvements
• Support RF architecture and design decisions for automotive hardware platforms
• Collaborate with design teams to define RF specifications and validation requirements
• Support RF architecture and design decisions for automotive hardware platforms
• Collaborate with design teams to define RF specifications and validation requirements

Benefits

• CARIAD, Inc. provides performance based merits and annual bonus along with a competitive benefits package.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401k with employer match and defined contribution plan, short and long term disability, basic life and AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment plans, maternity and non-primary caregiver leave, adoption assistance, employee referral program and vacation and paid holidays.
• We also offer a unique vehicle lease program that covers registration and insurance fees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level