Contract - Test Technician II, Embedded Linux

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:

The Test Technician II, Embedded Linux (Contract) is responsible for supporting programming, configuration, and validation of automotive electronic units running embedded Linux. This role sets up test equipment and benches, executes test procedures, captures logs and measurements, performs first-level triage, and produces clear, customer-facing documentation and test evidence as required.

Role Responsibilities:

• Testing, Programming, and Debug
• Program and configure units (image flashing, OS provisioning, configuration management) per defined procedures.
• Debug Linux issues using command line tools (system logs, dmesg, journalctl, networking tools, process and resource monitoring).
• Support real-time application validation, including timing verification and reproducibility of observed issues.
• Execute electrical and functional test procedures (for example supply voltage variation, brief interruptions, overcurrent, ripple measurements) as applicable to the unit and test plan.
• Test Setup and Lab Operations
• Set up and configure test equipment, including power supplies, function generators, load equipment, and automation rigs.
• Maintain stable test benches and cable harnessing; ensure safe handling and ESD controls.
• Monitor equipment calibration status and report gaps.
• Documentation and Collaboration
• Document test results, maintain test records, and prepare concise test reports.
• Support development and continuous improvement of test procedures (clarity, repeatability, and safety).
• Collaborate with test engineers, design engineers, and quality to resolve issues and close gaps.

General Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to read and follow detailed test procedures.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced lab environment with multiple priorities.

Required Specialized Skills:

• Hands-on experience supporting embedded Linux systems in a lab or production environment.
• Embedded Linux experience, including the ability to debug and program the Linux operating system.
• Strong command line proficiency (bash, SSH, file permissions, process management, logs).
• Experience flashing and recovering devices (for example via USB, Ethernet, serial console, JTAG as applicable).
• Experience debugging real-time applications (for example latency issues, scheduling behavior, timing verification).
• Proficiency using lab tools such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and power supplies.
• Ability to perform structured triage and fault isolation across HW, SW, and test setup.

Desired Skills:

• Automotive electronics experience.
• Familiarity with automotive test setups and basic vehicle network concepts (for example CAN, Ethernet).
• Experience with automated test equipment (ATE) and basic scripting (for example, Python).
• Familiarity with electrical safety procedures.
• Exposure to EMC and ESD concepts.

Workplace Flexibility:

• May require occasional overtime to complete test cycles.
• This role is based in Mountain View, CA. Must be local, no relocation.
• This is a contract W2 position
• Immediate availability is required. The selected candidate is expected to start promptly upon offer acceptance and pending successful completion of a standard background check and drug screening
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future
• We do not accept C2C (Corp-to-Corp), 1099, or third-party agency submissions for this position

Years of Relevant Experience:

• 2+ years of experience in test, lab, or manufacturing support for electronic systems.

Required Education:

• Associate's degree in Electronics Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Desired Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, 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, CA, the salary range for this position is $55.00 - $63.00 hourly.

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 contingent upon the successful completion of this screening process. We emphasize the importance of compliance with export control and sanctions laws as a fundamental aspect of our operations. Our company is dedicated to adhering to these regulations to ensure the lawful and ethical conduct of our business activities. Employment with our company is contingent on either verifying U.S. citizenship or U.S. lawful permanent resident status or obtaining any necessary license or confirming the availability of an applicable exemption or license exception. You, the applicant, will be required to answer certain questions for export control purposes, and that information will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. Cariad Inc. may choose not to apply for a license or use an applicable license exception (if available) for such individuals whose access to export-controlled technology or software source code may require authorization and may decline to proceed with an applicant on that basis alone.

By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree to participate in the export control and sanctions compliance screening process. Your cooperation in this matter is essential to our shared success and the integrity of our operations. Thank you for your understanding and commitment to upholding these important standards.