Systems Architect (ECU) - Autonomous Driving

About the role

As a (Senior) Systems Architect (ECU) - Autonomous Driving, you will run technology scouting, vendor collaboration, and lead the definition and early development of the next-gen AD ECU and drive C-level decision materials. You will partner closely with AD Software/Hardware, Safety, Simulation/Validation, Procurement, and external vendors.

What you'll do

• Acting as the OEM E/E technical owner for the SDS Central Compute hardware and primary technical interface between MOIA and international Tier-1 suppliers
• Own the transition of the AD ECU from early development to series-intent readiness, including alignment with industrialization, sourcing, lifecycle, and cost targets
• Definition of MOIAs test requirements, verification depth, and acceptance criteria for DV/PV, as well as technical oversight of all supplier DV/PV test activities and validation planning
• Review and approval of supplier test concepts, test plans, and test reports, including the verification of test coverage, traceability, and alignment with MOIA/VW safety, quality, and homologation requirements
• Creation and refinement of requirements, specifications, verification documentation, and audit readiness
• Participation in design reviews, FMEAs, risk analyses, and milestone/gate reviews
• Produce executive-ready presentations and architecture documents; facilitate cross-functional decisions and sign-offs
• Develop the multi-year roadmap, dependencies, stage-gates, risk register, and partner collaboration models

What you'll need

• Strong expertise in electronic design and architecture assessment of high-performance automotive compute platforms (AD/ADAS ECUs, domain controllers)
• Ability to evaluate and challenge supplier hardware concepts, including SoC architecture, power supply concepts, high-speed interfaces, EMI/EMC, and thermal design
• Deep knowledge of functional safety (ISO 26262) and its implications for hardware development and verification
• A university degree in electronics, engineering, or a similar field, and profound experience in the automotive industry
• High degree of ownership, independence, and proactive working style
• Strong communication skills in both German and English, including the ability to clearly articulate complex technical topics in written and spoken form
• High level of teamwork and collaboration, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional and intercultural environments
• Confident stakeholder communication, able to guide, challenge, and align internal teams and international suppliers

What they offer

• Competitive salary including bonus
• Hybrid work setup with flexibility to work from home or offices
• Flexible working hours and work arrangements
• Fully subsidized public transport ticket (Deutschlandticket)
• Learning environment with continuous learning days, trainings, conferences, and language classes
• 30 vacation days, sabbatical and unpaid leave option