Staff Technical Program Manager, Vehicle Systems & Controls

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies•Irvine, CA

About The Position

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is a joint venture between two industry leaders with a clear vision for automotive’s next chapter. From operating systems to zonal controllers to cloud and connectivity solutions, we’re addressing the challenges of electric vehicles through technology that will set the standards for software-defined vehicles around the world. The road to the future is uncharted. By combining our expertise across connectivity, AI, security and more, we’ll map a new way forward. Working together, we’ll create a future that’s more connected, more intelligent, more sustainable for everyone. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Staff Technical Program Manager to lead and coordinate cross-functional teams in the development of advanced vehicle subsystems. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the successful execution of complex technical, new architecture programs relating to development and integration of vehicle controls systems and SW. This is a high-impact role that requires a deep technical understanding of the vehicle architecture, component interfaces, dependencies as well as exceptional program management skills with a strong ability to manage ambiguity. As a key member of our engineering team, you will work closely with HW and SW leads, test asset build teams, electrical engineering architects, validation teams, and other stakeholders to ensure timely execution, manage risks, dependencies, and critical deliverables.

Requirements

BS or MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field. Advanced degrees preferred.
5+ years of relevant experience in technical program management, with at least 3 years focused on integration and development of powertrain, body, thermal, energy systems HW and SW in the automotive/EV sector.
Proven expertise in managing complex programs that involve both hardware and software integration, especially in an automotive or high-tech environment.
3+ years of experience with Systems Engineering principles and Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
Experience with test and validation strategies, particularly related to integration testing and verification for automotive or EV systems.
In-depth knowledge of different vehicle architectures and components required for the subsystem, homologation impacts, embedded systems, and real-time control software.
Hands-on experience with hardware/software bring-up (using ECUs, sub-components, and vehicle systems), integration, and validation of distributed systems.
Expertise in managing software development projects using Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
Familiarity with JIRA, Confluence, and other program management tools.
Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex project dependencies.
Proven track record of successfully managing project risks, dependencies, and deliverables to ensure timely and high-quality results.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with tools like Python, C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, CarSim, and other simulation or modeling tools is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end technical programs to deliver vertically integrated hardware and software for vehicle controls subsystems for multiple EV platforms, with special focus on early/new generation architecture. Ensure alignment with company objectives and technical milestones.
Collaborate with technical teams to scope integration requirements using systems engineering principles. Identify test asset needs and coordinate test plans (subsystem and vehicle level) based on software and hardware deliverables, as well as Component, Vehicle DVP timing.
Work closely with Electrical/Mechanical Hardware, Software Development, and Validation teams to ensure smooth software-hardware integration, validation, calibration throughout the program lifecycle.
Develop and manage detailed subsystem integration timelines and resource allocation for integration efforts, accounting for dependencies and timing of supplier deliverables. Prioritize components for test asset development based on technical risk, program milestones, and system complexity.
Drive the identification and resolution of technical issues throughout the software and hardware integration process. Manage risks and dependencies to minimize delays.
Coordinate the development and execution of verification test plans. Promote automated scalable validation principles, ensuring testing aligns with program milestones and quality standards.
Provide regular program updates to leadership and the development teams to ensure all teams are working towards the same goal. Conduct healthy escalations to ensure deliverables are met and mitigate potential risks before they impact the timeline.
Identify opportunities to improve program management processes, integration workflows, and test processes. Implement best practices to optimize efficiency and quality.