Staff Software Engineer, Security (Linux/Android/Embedded)

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.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a Staff Software Engineer – Security to join our team in developing the next-generation infotainment system for the Volkswagen Group.

This role will focus on secure boot, cryptographic frameworks, secure inter-process communication, and intrusion detection systems within an embedded Linux environment. The ideal candidate will have expertise in Linux security hardening, SELinux/AppArmor, TLS/DTLS encryption, secure firmware updates (A/B Boot, rollback protection), and IDS/IPS implementation. Responsibilities include developing security policies, enforcing access control (RBAC, HSM, TEE), implementing firewall rules, and ensuring compliance with ISO 21434 and VW cybersecurity standards.

Experience in automotive security, intrusion detection (IDS), secure over-the-air (OTA) updates, and penetration testing is required. This role involves working closely with system architects, software engineers, and compliance teams to protect the infotainment system against cyber threats.

If you are passionate about building resilient, secure embedded systems for connected vehicles, we want to hear from you!

Role Responsibilities:

• Embedded System Development 
  • Architect, develop, test, release and maintain embedded software for Cariad Infotainment. 
  • Own software features end-to-end and deliver high quality, testable, and peer reviewed software components. 
  • Identify bottlenecks and optimize system performance through tuning of priorities, code complexity reduction, and system-level optimizations.
  • Conduct system-critical design reviews with the teams, providing valuable insights and guidance.
• System Integration 
  • Integrating the developed software with the rest of infotainment software.
  • Collaborating with other software teams members and partners to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware components.
  • Conducting integration testing to ensure compatibility and performance.
• Compliance and Standards 
  • Ensuring the software complies with automotive industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 26262).
  • Staying up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends.
  • Implementing best practices for software development and quality assurance.
• Testing and Quality Assurance
  • Developing and executing test plans to ensure software quality and reliability
  • Conducting unit testing, integration testing and system testing.
  • Addressing bugs and performance issues identified during testing.
• Collaboration and Communication
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including software, hardware, and quality assurance teams. 
  • Communicate project status, technical challenges, and solutions in a clear and concise manner.
• Documentation 
  • Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation including design specification, test reports, bug description, root cause and solution description, user guides, and release notes.

General Skills:

• Analytical and debugging skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to actively participate in technical meetings and provide feedback.
• Collaborate and work with multiple teams across geographies and time zones. 
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.  
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.  
• Experience and ability to work in a very past pace environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 

Required Specialized Skills:

• Proficiency in C/C++ programming languages. 
• Knowledge in Rust programming language. 
• Knowledge of scripting languages such as Python, Bash, or Perl. 
• Experience using test automation in a Test-Driven Development (TDD) process is a plus
• Experience working with cross functional teams (product teams, system and validation teams, hardware teams).
• Experience developing software products using Agile process.

Desired Skills:

One or more of these specialized skills are desired:

• Experience with Generative AI or LLMs to enhance software development efficiency and quality
• Experience implementing device drivers for standard I/O and high-speed interfaces on a complex SoC (UART, SPI, I2C, USB, I2S, PCIe)
• Desired specialized skills based on expertise:
  • Video/audio codec implementation
  • Strong image processing knowledge
  • Picture quality improvement for embedded devices
  • Firmware development for DSP
  • Test automation in TDD process
  • Device driver implementation for HDMI, DP, DSI, SER/DES interfaces
  • Performance optimization for GPU/DPU drivers
  • Porting 3D gaming engines (Unreal, Unity3D) to Linux for embedded products
  • In-depth knowledge of Linux display and audio pipelines
  • TA development with ARM TrustZone
  • Implementation of cryptographic algorithms for encryption, decryption, authentication
  • Yocto Linux software build expertise

Workplace Flexibility:

• Calls, (virtual) meetings & workshops (overlapping with German/US business hours as needed) to align with leadership, development teams and partners.
• Occasional international and domestic travel to provide on-site support and planning/integration workshops with our internal and external stakeholders.

Years of Relevant Experience:

• 8+ years in developing embedded software
• 3+ years in embedded Linux drivers or system software
• 3+ years in embedded software development with RTOS

Required Education:

• Bachelor's degree in computer/electrical engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Desired Education: 

• Master’s degree or PhD in Computer/Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.

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 $157,000 - 219,667.

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.