Principal Hardware Engineer

We are CARIAD, an automotive software development team with the Volkswagen Group. Our mission is to make the automotive experience safer, more sustainable, more comfortable, more digital, and more fun. To achieve that we are building the leading tech stack for the automotive industry and creating a unified software platform for over 10 million new vehicles per year. We’re looking for talented, digital minds like you to help us create code that moves the world. Together with you, we’ll build outstanding digital experiences and products for all Volkswagen Group brands that will transform mobility. Join us as we shape the future of the car and everyone around it.

In the role of Principal Hardware Engineer, you will define, develop and deliver production hardware in an embedded environment for a high‑performance computing platform for the VW Group to create in‑house development expertise for connected infotainment and ADAS/AD systems. The position will be a member of CARIAD’s senior technical team and will interface with multiple stakeholders of VW Group’s technical team. This role investigates and develops new computer hardware architectures for HPC connected systems.

Role Responsibilities

Product Development

• Lead the development of different HW modules of ADAS/AD and Infotainment (ICP) HPCs.
• Lead the development, launch, and production of ADAS/AD and ICP HPCs, overseeing all steps of the process and working closely with product, design and contract manufacturers.
• Contribute to the specification and design of compute boards for automotive systems.
• Work with internal customers to understand and specify application requirements and deliverables, including safety and security.
• Work with component suppliers to select and support hardware solutions.
• Support investigation of scalable architecture alternatives and development paths for ADAS/AD and ICP hardware platforms.
• Contribute to the establishment of cyber‑security and functional‑safety requirements while developing EE hardware platforms.
• Lead the implementation of cyber‑security and functional‑safety requirements while developing EE hardware platforms.
• Support recruiting and building a high‑performing team of engineers to deliver high‑performance, high‑volume, low‑cost automotive systems.

Innovation & Collaboration

• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies related to hardware platform development.
• Collaborate with team members in the U.S. and abroad.
• Provide technical guidance to the team, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovative ideas to solve problems.
• Mentor, motivate and guide the career development of young engineers.
• Work closely with software, hardware, and mechanical teams to bridge technical gaps, contribute insights, and facilitate effective communication.

General Skills

• Communication skills – interpersonal, presentation and written.
• Adaptability and openness to learning new tools, methodologies, and technologies.
• Analytical and conceptual thinking.
• Experience in developing strategies for R&D.
• Strategic and visionary mindset.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and motivation to work in a dynamic and fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally and multi‑task.

Required Skills

• Excellent strategic thinking, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Deep knowledge of HPC hardware architecture and hardware development processes.
• Understanding of hardware platform development and the corresponding software, experienced with introduction into mass production.
• Deep understanding of typical vehicle EE architectures and automotive development processes.
• Deep understanding in defining and designing hardware for embedded high‑performance computer systems, including definition of system topologies, components and interfaces.
• Knowledge of functional safety (ISO 26262) concepts and implementation in hardware design.
• Knowledge of connected HPC hardware components and their peripherals.
• Knowledge of connected vehicle infotainment and communication systems.
• Knowledge of embedded system software/hardware architecture and real‑time operating systems.
• Experience establishing a professional network within the ecosystem of automotive suppliers and technology companies such as semiconductor vendors and start‑up companies.

Desired Skills

• Experience with infotainment and driver assistance systems.
• Rapid SW environment for prototyping and validation.
• Connected navigation and driver assistance system technologies.
• User‑interface architecture for mobile and automotive systems.
• Programming languages C, C++, Java, HTML5, and scripting languages.

Years of Relevant Experience

• 12 + years of HPC hardware development experience in an embedded environment.

Required Education

• Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

Desired Education

• Science or a related field.

Work Flexibility

• Travel to worldwide locations required.

Compensation

Salary range is dependent on factors such as geographical differentials, credentials or certifications, industry‑based experience, qualification and training. In the city of Mountain View, California, the salary range for this position is $194,670 – $282,735.

Benefits

CARIAD, Inc. provides performance‑based merits and an annual bonus along with a competitive benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with employer match and defined‑contribution plan, short‑ and long‑term disability, basic life and AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and student‑loan repayment plans, maternity and non‑primary caregiver leave, adoption assistance, employee referral program, vacation and paid holidays. We also offer a unique vehicle lease program that covers registration and insurance fees.

Equal Opportunity Employment

CARIAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.

Export Control & Compliance

Employment with CARIAD Inc. is subject to export control and sanctions compliance. Some positions may involve access to technology and/or software source code subject to U.S. legal restrictions on release to certain foreign persons based on citizenship or permanent residence. Applicants may be required to provide information for screening and pass verification of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, or confirmation that a license, exemption, or exception applies. CARIAD retains the discretion to decline to obtain a required license in any case. By applying, you acknowledge and agree to participate in this process.