Software Engineering Intern - Embedded Platforms (Fall 2026) at Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies

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 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 Responsibilities • 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. Qualifications 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. 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. 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. 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, se