Software Engineering Intern - Embedded Platforms (Fall 2026)

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 interns passionate about the foundational stack that powers vehicle electronics. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and debugging core software running on ECUs (Electronic Control Units) and embedded Linux/RTOS environments. You will directly contribute to the software stack for verification and board bring-up efforts for next-generation vehicle platforms.
Program Details:

• Timeline: Full-time, September 21 – December 18

• Location: Palo Alto, CA or Irvine, CA

• Design, develop, and deploy embedded software on Linux/Android and/or Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) for electronic hardware.

• Contribute to the implementation and optimization of Hardware Abstraction Layers (HALs) for vehicle hardware interaction.

• Design and build highly complex systems spanning multiple domains that bring improved functionality and better performance to how users interact with our vehicles.

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (Charging, Body Controls, EE/Hardware teams) on software initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program at an accredited US university.

• Proficiency in C++.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Actively pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical field with the intent to return to school following completion of internship.

• Experience with scripting languages (Python, Shell, Go)

• Experience in Embedded Software Development

• Understanding of Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) fundamentals.

• Familiarity with embedded Linux environments.

• Familiarity with kernel-level development or automotive communication protocols.

• Experience with interface protocols (CAN, Ethernet, SPI, I2C)

• Experience in automotive systems and applications.

Full-time positions include base salary, eligibility for an annual performance bonus, and eligibility for equity.

In addition to base salary, Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies offers benefits tailored to the local market. For more information on the benefits available for full-time employees, check out our Global Benefits Site.

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.

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].

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Please note this job posting represents an open, active vacancy. Additionally, we are not currently accepting applications from third party application services.