Freelance Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in California

We areCARIAD, 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.

Role Summary:

In the role of Principal Hardware Engineer, you will define, develop and deliver production hardware in embedded environment for high performance computing platform for VW Group in order to create in-house development expertise for connected infotainment and ADAS/AD system. The position will be a member of CARIAD's senior technical team and interfaces with multiple stakeholders of VW Group's technical team members. This position investigates and develops new computer HW 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/contract manufacturers.
• Contribute to 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.
• Supports in investigating scalable architecture alternatives and development paths for ADAS/AD and ICP Hardware platforms.
• Contribute to establish Cyber Security and Functional Safety requirements while developing EE hardware platform.
• Leads to HW implementation of Cyber Security and Functional Safety requirements while developing EE hardware platform.
• Support in recruiting and building a high-performing team of engineers to deliver high performance, high volume, low cost, automotive systems.

Innovation and 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 team, foster 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
• Attention to details
• Being adaptable and open to learning new tools, methodologies, and technologies
• Analytical and conceptual thinking
• Experience in developing strategies for R&D
• Integration - joining people, processes, or systems
• Strategic/visionary minded
• Strong problem-solving skills and motivation to work in a dynamic and fast paced environment
• Ability to work cross-functionally and multi-tasking

Required Skills:

• Excellent strategic thinking, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Deep knowledge of HPC HW architecture and hardware development processes.
• Understanding of Hardware platform development and corresponding software. Experienced with introduction into mass production of the same.
• 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 its interfaces.
• Understanding of functional safety (ISO26262) concept and implementation of same in HW design.
• Knowledge of connected HPC hardware components and its peripherals
• Knowledge of connected vehicle infotainment and communication systems.
• Knowledge of embedded system software/hardware architecture, real-time operating systems.
• Experienced to establish a professional network within the ecosystem of automotive suppliers, and technology companies such as: Computer system technology companies; Semiconductor vendors; Start-up companies.

Desired Skills:

• Experience with Infotainment and Driver Assistance Systems
• Infotainment and Driver Assistance Systems
• Consumer electronics HW design architecture
• 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 script languages

Years of Relevant Experience:

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

Required Education:

• Bachelors 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.

CARIAD, Inc. provides performance based merits and annual bonus along with a competitive benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401k 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 and vacation and paid holidays. We also offer a unique vehicle lease program that covers registration and insurance fees. 

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/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws. 

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. To ensure compliance, applicants will be required to provide information for screening. Employment may be contingent on the outcome, including 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.