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