Sr. Manager, Quality Management Systems

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 the QMS Manager at the Rivian-VW Joint Venture, you will be the strategic lead and governance authority of our quality management system. This is a high-impact leadership role that requires a “player-coach” mentality that requires rolling up your sleeves. We aren’t just building cars; we are building the future of automotive software. Your goal is to design and implement a lean, agile, and fully compliant QMS that meets ISO9001 standards while supporting rapid software deployment and hardware integration. You will bridge the gap between “Silicon Valley Speed” and “Automotive Rigor” to enabling excellence at scale. This role is located with a flex working schedule in our Palo Alto, CA office. Responsibilities Agile QMS Design: Develop and maintain a digital-first QMS that satisfies ISO9001 without stifling innovation and speed. You will move away from static manuals toward dynamic, automated process flows. Cross-Organizational Alignment: Harmonize the quality standards of two automotive giants. You will ensure that the JV’s processes are compatible with both Rivian’s and VW’s ecosystems. Software Quality Integration: Collaborate with DevOps and Engineering to integrate CSMS (ISO/SAE21434) and Functional Safety (ISO26262) requirements into the core QMS framework, ensuring end-to-end traceability, robust release quality, and data-driven quality metrics across the development lifecycle. Internal Audit & Feedback Loops: Lead internal audits that focus on value-add, not just compliance. Use data-driven insights to identify bottlenecks in the development lifecycle. External Certification: Lead the company through its initial and subsequent ISO9001 certifications, acting as the primary point of contact for external registrars. Change Management: Champion a “Quality-by-Design” mindset across the organization, ensuring that every engineer understands their role in the quality ecosystem. Qualifications Experience: 8+ years in Quality Management, with at least 3 years in a high-growth tech environment or a modern automotive player (EV/Autonomous Driving). The "Hybrid" Mindset: You understand the strictness of ISO9001 but are fluent in agile methodologies and CI/CD pipelines. Technical Literacy: You can talk to software developers about “Definition of Done” just as easily as you talk to auditors about “Corrective Actions”. Education: B.S. in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. Professional certifications (Six Sigma, Lead Auditor) are a plus. Communication: Exceptional ability to simplify complex regulatory requirements for a creative, fast-moving audience. Total Rewards Total compensation packages for full-time positions include base salary, eligibility for an annual performance bonus, and eligibility for equity. Benefit offerings include Flex Time Off, retirement savings plans as well as medical, vision and dental coverage. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr