Software Test Technician
Rivian And Volkswagen Group Technologies · CA · Full-time · Posted 2026-09-04
Job description
ABOUT US 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. ROLE SUMMARY Join us in advancing the future of electric vehicles at Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies (RVTech) by playing a pivotal role in delivering quality software to our customers. As a Software Test Technician, you will be on the front lines of the software team, executing vehicle-level testing across the software delivery lifecycle — from main-branch health to monthly over-the-air (OTA) release validation. You will have real, hands-on impact on how our vehicles operate while working directly with the latest hardware and software. This role requires vehicle fleet management skills, an understanding of software-defined vehicles, and familiarity with modern software integration workflows. You will collaborate closely with software development, integration, validation, and technician teams to ensure stable software delivery across programs and variants. RESPONSIBILITIES - Execute vehicle-level testing across the software delivery lifecycle — smoke, regression, and integration on both main-branch and release-branch software — following structured test plans covering functional verification, bug-fix validation, and integration coverage. - Perform hands-on ad-hoc and exploratory testing to validate feature maturity and stability. - Manage the test fleet — install OTA updates, maintain software configurations, and instrument vehicles to collect data for debug and validation. - Triage issues found during testing and collaborate with cross-functional teams to root cause, prioritize, and resolve high-impact vehicle-level problems. - Support the broader test and technician community with vehicle prep, upkeep, and debug of vehicle-specific issues. - Perform other duties as required or assigned within the scope of the position. QUALIFICATIONS - 2+ years of experience in automotive software testing, test or factory operations, or automotive diagnosis and repair (3+ years preferred) - Working knowledge of automotive electrical systems and vehicle communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet) and relevant debug tools - Understanding of dependencies between electrical and mechanical systems - Experience with systems engineering, automotive network architecture, or vehicle integration is a plus - Experience managing or maintaining vehicle fleets for testing and validation is a plus - Strong interpersonal communication skills and a proactive, cross-functional collaboration style - Demonstrated ability to learn new skills quickly and work in a fast-paced development environment - Strong understanding of vehicle safety concepts and testing-related safety procedures - Valid driver's license with a clean driving history - Professional experience driving prototype test vehicles on test tracks is a plus - Flexibility to travel domestically/internationally (up to 25%) TOTAL REWARDS We build the exceptional — and we believe the people doing that work should be rewarded accordingly. In addition to a competitive base salary, full-time positions may be is eligible to participate in our annual company performance bonus program. Payments are discretionary and not guaranteed; actual amounts depend on company results and the terms of the plan in effect, and require active employment at the time of payout. This role is also eligible for equity in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), subject to board approval and the terms of our equity incentive plans, including applicable vesting requirements. In addition to our compensation programs, we invest in our people with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, wellbeing, and financial future for full-time employees — including health coverage, retirement savings, time off, and family planning programs. Offerings vary by country. Learn more about our global benefit programs https://rvtech.mybenefits.life/. External candidates can apply for this role through the Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies careers site (https://rivianvw.tech/#careers). If you are a current employee, please apply through our internal job board https://app.ashbyhq.com/internal/job-board/b10a9912-eb45-4a84-9a34-84b2a459923a. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are also committed to ensuring compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws regarding citizenship and immigration status. Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at [email protected]. CANDIDATE DATA PRIVACY Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies” may collect, use and disclose your personal information or personal data (within the meaning of the applic