What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Technical Program Manager position at Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies?
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
As a Staff Technical Program Manager for Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) will be a key leader within the Enterprise Technology Vehicle and Fleet Applications team. This role is essential for driving software programs that are critical to Rivian’s vehicle manufacturing processes, ensuring the seamless integration and optimization of MES software to meet evolving production needs. You will lead cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions that enhance manufacturing efficiency, quality, and scalability, and play a pivotal role in Rivian's global expansion and production capabilities. This role will be based out of our factory in Normal, IL, Or Palo Alto, CA OR Irvine , CA and report directly to the Sr. Manager, MFG IT Program.
Responsibilities
Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Palo Alto, California Based Applicants: $167,400 - $209,300 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).
Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Irvine, California Based Applicants: $154,000 - $192,500 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).
Benefits Summary: Rivian provides robust medical/Rx, dental and vision insurance packages for full-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Coverage is effective on the first day of employment, and Rivian covers most of the premiums.
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 consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are also committed to ensuring compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws regarding citizenship and immigration status.
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at candidateaccommodations@rivian.com.
Candidate Data Privacy
Rivian and VW Group Technologies (“Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies”) may collect, use and disclose your personal information or personal data (within the meaning of the applicable data protection laws) when you apply for employment and/or participate in our recruitment processes (“Candidate Personal Data”). This data includes contact, demographic, communications, educational, professional, employment, social media/website, network/device, recruiting system usage/interaction, security and preference information. Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies may use your Candidate Personal Data for the purposes of (i) tracking interactions with our recruiting system; (ii) carrying out, analyzing and improving our application and recruitment process, including assessing you and your application and conducting employment, background and reference checks; (iii) establishing an employment relationship or entering into an employment contract with you; (iv) complying with our legal, regulatory and corporate governance obligations; (v) recordkeeping; (vi) ensuring network and information security and preventing fraud; and (vii) as otherwise required or permitted by applicable law.
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies may share your Candidate Personal Data with (i) internal personnel who have a need to know such information in order to perform their duties, including individuals on our People Team, Finance, Legal, and the team(s) with the position(s) for which you are applying; (ii) Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies affiliates; and (iii) Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies’ service providers, including providers of background checks, staffing services, and cloud services.
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies may transfer or store internationally your Candidate Personal Data, including to or in the United States, Canada, and the European Union and in the cloud, and this data may be subject to the laws and accessible to the courts, law enforcement and national security authorities of such jurisdictions.
Please note that we are currently not accepting applications from third party application services.
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
As a Staff Technical Program Manager for Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) will be a key leader within the Enterprise Technology Vehicle and Fleet Applications team. This role is essential for driving software programs that are critical to Rivian’s vehicle manufacturing processes, ensuring the seamless integration and optimization of MES software to meet evolving production needs. You will lead cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions that enhance manufacturing efficiency, quality, and scalability, and play a pivotal role in Rivian's global expansion and production capabilities. This role will be based out of our factory in Normal, IL, Or Palo Alto, CA OR Irvine , CA and report directly to the Sr. Manager, MFG IT Program.
Responsibilities
- Strategic Program Leadership: Develop and implement a strategic framework for managing a complex portfolio of software programs related to MES, aligned with Rivian’s manufacturing objectives and growth strategy.
- End-to-End Program Management: Oversee the entire lifecycle of software programs, from initial planning and development to deployment and optimization. Manage scope, timelines, resources, and deliverables to ensure successful program execution.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with product teams, manufacturing engineers, SAP, and other stakeholders to drive IT initiatives and ensure alignment across all functions. Foster a collaborative and transparent environment to achieve project milestones and deliver value.
- Integration and Deployment: Lead the deployment of MES software solutions within manufacturing environments, ensuring smooth integration with existing systems and minimal disruption to operations.
- Change Management: Develop and execute change management plans to ensure successful adoption of new processes and technologies, minimizing operational friction and enhancing productivity.
- Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with software programs. Implement strategies to manage risks and ensure project alignment and stakeholder engagement throughout the program lifecycle.
- Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement: Ensure all deliverables meet high-quality standards and regulatory requirements. Continuously identify opportunities for process improvement and implement strategies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including senior leadership, clients, team members, and third-party vendors. Communicate program status, progress, and performance effectively to ensure alignment and transparency.
- Reporting and Documentation: Establish a regular cadence for reporting on program progress, risks, and key developments. Maintain comprehensive project documentation to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
- Team Leadership and Development: Mentor and guide project team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Encourage professional growth and ensure the team is equipped to tackle program challenges.
- 6 years of experience in technical program management, preferably in manufacturing or a related field.
- BS in Engineering or similar technical degree required.
- Strong foundation in software engineering principles and practices.
- Proven experience managing end-to-end product deployments in a fast-paced environment, from concept through development to launch.
- Proficiency in program management and communication tools such as Confluence, Jira, and scheduling software.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with a strong ability to drive cross-functional initiatives.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, operate in ambiguous situations, and solve complex problems effectively.
- Experience in change management and implementing new technologies in a production environment is highly desirable.
Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Palo Alto, California Based Applicants: $167,400 - $209,300 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).
Salary Range/Hourly Rate for Irvine, California Based Applicants: $154,000 - $192,500 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).
Benefits Summary: Rivian provides robust medical/Rx, dental and vision insurance packages for full-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Coverage is effective on the first day of employment, and Rivian covers most of the premiums.
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 consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are also committed to ensuring compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws regarding citizenship and immigration status.
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at candidateaccommodations@rivian.com.
Candidate Data Privacy
Rivian and VW Group Technologies (“Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies”) may collect, use and disclose your personal information or personal data (within the meaning of the applicable data protection laws) when you apply for employment and/or participate in our recruitment processes (“Candidate Personal Data”). This data includes contact, demographic, communications, educational, professional, employment, social media/website, network/device, recruiting system usage/interaction, security and preference information. Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies may use your Candidate Personal Data for the purposes of (i) tracking interactions with our recruiting system; (ii) carrying out, analyzing and improving our application and recruitment process, including assessing you and your application and conducting employment, background and reference checks; (iii) establishing an employment relationship or entering into an employment contract with you; (iv) complying with our legal, regulatory and corporate governance obligations; (v) recordkeeping; (vi) ensuring network and information security and preventing fraud; and (vii) as otherwise required or permitted by applicable law.
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies may share your Candidate Personal Data with (i) internal personnel who have a need to know such information in order to perform their duties, including individuals on our People Team, Finance, Legal, and the team(s) with the position(s) for which you are applying; (ii) Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies affiliates; and (iii) Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies’ service providers, including providers of background checks, staffing services, and cloud services.
Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies may transfer or store internationally your Candidate Personal Data, including to or in the United States, Canada, and the European Union and in the cloud, and this data may be subject to the laws and accessible to the courts, law enforcement and national security authorities of such jurisdictions.
Please note that we are currently not accepting applications from third party application services.
Salary : $154,000 - $209,300
