Sr. Dynamics and Suspension Controls System Engineer

About this role

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 This role is focused on developing and optimizing Vehicle Dynamics features across vehicle propulsion, chassis controls, torque vectoring, and active driveline systems. As our vehicle platform portfolio expands, this engineer will lead dynamics feature development across increasing drivetrain permutations, leveraging modern AI-assisted engineering tools to accelerate analysis, requirements development, and validation workflows. The ideal candidate is a technically strong systems thinker who embraces AI productivity tools as a force multiplier in a fast-paced development environment. RESPONSIBILITIES - Support and drive development of Vehicle Dynamics features relating to Chassis - Controls, Torque Vectoring, and Active Driveline, under guidance of Staff and Principal engineers - Collaborate cross-functionally with OEM stakeholders to define User Stories and Vehicle Dynamics Performance Attributes - Derive attributes top-down for sub-systems and components (Mechanical, Electrical, and Software) using first principles for performance and safety - Develop and document requirements at vehicle, system, and component level with full traceability - Interface with other technical functional domains to ensure proper vehicle-level quality, integration, and manufacturability - Support attribute verification and vehicle performance evaluation - Contribute to feature-level DFMEAs using traditional methods and MBSE - Support System-level Functional Safety work products compliant with ISO 26262 guidelines - Support in-vehicle testing and validation globally - Contribute to DVP&R development working alongside senior engineers to formulate, conduct, and capture validation tests at various levels (SIL, HIL, Component, and Vehicle) - Participate in troubleshooting issues, applying structured root cause analysis methodologies - Actively utilize AI-assisted tools (e.g., LLM-based coding assistants, AI-enhanced simulation pre/post-processing, automated requirements traceability tools) to improve throughput and quality of engineering deliverables - Assist in development, commissioning and maintaining physics based vehicle models with focus on semi-active & active suspension systems. (MATLAB or AI based tooling) - Apply AI tools to accelerate data analysis from proving ground and lab test events, reducing cycle time from test to insight - Use AI-assisted scripting and code generation (Python/MATLAB) to automate repetitive analysis tasks and generate first-pass calibration documentation QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical, Mechanical, Automotive, or Controls Engineering (Master's preferred) - 3–5 years of systems engineering experience with a focus on vehicle dynamics or chassis controls - Working knowledge of Controls, Electrical, or Mechanical engineering as applied to automotive systems - Experience with electric powertrain systems and validation at one or more test levels (SIL, HIL, Component, or Vehicle) - Familiarity with DFMEA processes - Understanding of ISO 26262 functional safety guidelines as applied to safety-critical automotive systems - Demonstrated use of AI coding assistants (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Claude) or AI-powered analysis tools in an engineering context - Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams Preferred Qualifications - Experience testing at proving grounds - Familiarity with MBSE methodologies and tools - Experience with requirement management tools (Jama, Flow or equivalent) - Experience with Vector CAN tools - Experience applying LLMs or AI tools to requirements generation, test case synthesis, or FMEA support workflows 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 con