About the role#
As a Vehicle Controls intern, you will contribute to embedded software or controls algorithms for vehicle domains such as propulsion, energy storage, thermal systems, body controls, or test automation. You will be matched to a specific team based on your background and interests during the interview process. This role supports the development of software that manages critical vehicle functions like battery temperature, steering input, and system fault detection.
What you'll do#
- Design, implement, and test embedded software or controls algorithms for an assigned vehicle domain.
- Write production quality code in C or C++.
- Use Python for test tooling.
- Collaborate with systems and test engineers to validate features before deployment.
- Support test execution in SIL, HIL, or bench environments.
- Help debug technical issues that arise.
- Communicate progress and technical tradeoffs to your team.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Bachelor's or Master's program at an accredited US university in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Intent to return to school after the internship.
- Proficiency in C or C++.
- Exposure to Python.
- Coursework or project experience with embedded systems, control theory, or real time operating systems.
- Familiarity with automotive communication protocols like CAN, LIN, or Automotive Ethernet.
- Exposure to MATLAB and Simulink for controls modeling.
- Interest or coursework in functional safety concepts such as ISO 26262.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California, United States.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Full-time internship.
- Compensation: Paid position.
About Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is a joint venture focused on software development for electric vehicles. Founded in 2024, the company creates operating systems, zonal controllers, and cloud connectivity solutions. It maintains a staff of 1,689 employees across offices in Palo Alto, Irvine, Vancouver, and Belgrade. The organization operates as a private entity.
How to get in at Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies
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