Systems Architecture Engineer

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies • Irvine, CA

1d

About The Position

Software Systems Architecture defines the technical foundation of future Rivian and Volkswagen vehicles. We set direction for how vehicle systems are structured, connected, and allocated. We hold that direction as vehicles scale across brands, configurations, and variants. As a Systems Architecture Engineer, you will work at the intersection of hardware and software. You will design vehicle systems and build analytical tools that measure their health. You will engage directly with complex, cross-functional problems: surfacing issues, defining them precisely, and driving resolution across engineering teams. This role suits someone technically rigorous, self-directing under incomplete information, and drawn to tradeoffs that cross domain boundaries.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of experience with embedded development, safety-critical systems, and/or automotive development processes; or an advanced degree.
• Ability to work effectively across hardware and software problem spaces.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical findings for cross-functional audiences.
• Self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to take ownership and drive clarity in ambiguous situations.

Nice To Haves

• Experience writing analysis scripts or tools (e.g., Python or similar) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Define and evaluate vehicle network architecture and functional allocation.
• Assess proposed designs against system-level requirements: performance, safety, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Analyze how architectural decisions scale across vehicle variants and configurations.
• Identify where changes introduce risk or require adaptation.
• Develop requirements and timing models for vehicle electrical and software systems.
• Work across hardware and software teams to ensure alignment.
• Identify cross-functional problems that arise from architectural decisions. Scope them clearly and drive resolution through the appropriate owning teams.
• Build and maintain analysis tooling to support repeatable architectural work. Target automation of validation and integration into engineering workflows over time.
• Partner with domain specialists across the organization to ensure architectural intent is understood and correctly implemented.

Benefits

• Base salary
• Eligibility for an annual performance bonus
• Eligibility for equity
• Benefits tailored to the local market

What This Job Offers

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