Principal HW Engineer, Manufacturing

Company: Cariad, Inc.
Location: Mountain View
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description 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 Principal Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for managing, leading, and implementing robust engineering and manufacturing processes to ensure the successful large-scale introduction of hardware products. This role involves overseeing Joint Development Manufacturing (JDM) quality processes and engineering quality gates to guarantee product reliability and compliance with industry standards. Additionally, the manager will establish and maintain comprehensive traceability systems for all work products, ensuring accountability and quality control throughout the product lifecycle. Role Responsibilities: Engineering and Manufacturing Processes (50%) Lead the development and implementation of robust engineering and manufacturing processes for large-scale production. Ensure these processes comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency and product quality Quality Assurance and Control (30%) Oversee the Joint Development Manufacturing (JDM) quality process, ensuring the establishment and maintenance of quality gates Implement and manage engineering quality gates to ensure product reliability throughout the development lifecycle Conduct regular reviews and audits to ensure compliance with quality standards and drive corrective actions as needed Traceability and Accountability (20%) Establish and maintain comprehensive traceability systems for all work products, from design to manufacturing and delivery Implement processes to ensure all work products can be traced back to their origin, ensuring accountability and quality control Utilize quality management software and tools to support traceability and ensure data integrity throughout the product lifecycle ?General Skills: ? Analytical and conceptual thinking Experience in developing strategies for automotive safety Communication skills - interpersonal, presentation and written. Integration - joining people, processes or systems Influencing and negotiation skills Strategic/visionary minded Resource management ?Required Specialized Skills: Proven experience in overseeing JDM (Joint Development Manufacturing) quality processes and quality gates Extensive experience in establishing and managing engineering quality gates Demonstrated success in implementing and managing traceability of work products throughout the development and manufacturing lifecycle In-depth knowledge of engineering and manufacturing processes for large-scale production ?Desired Skills: Experience with infotainment in the automotive industry ?Workplace Flexibility: Occasional travel required, less than 25% ?Years of Relevant Experience: 12 years of experience in engineering operations, quality management, and manufacturing processes ?Required Education: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field ?Desired Education: Master's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a 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 $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.

Keywords: Cariad, Inc., Berkeley , Principal HW Engineer, Manufacturing, Engineering , Mountain View, California