Senior CAE Automation Leader — Vehicle Hardware AI

Rivian; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 122,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivian is seeking a Senior CAE Automation Leader to build core Python frameworks, Physics AI models, and automated data pipelines for real-time analytics across vehicle hardware engineering. The role bridges structural mechanics with modern machine learning to accelerate next-generation platforms.

The ideal candidate brings 5–8+ years in automotive CAE, strong scripting in Python/MATLAB, and experience with Abaqus/LS-DYNA. Leadership and cross-functional collaboration are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Masters/Phd Preferred)
• 5-8+ years of experience in Automotive CAE with a history of Delivering complex programs
• Time spent in a relevant Master's Degree program may count towards work experience
• Software Scripting & Automation: Hands-on coding proficiency in Python or MATLAB for engineering automation. Experience developing automation APIs, GUIs, or macros within common CAD/CAE environments (e.g., ANSA, HyperWorks, Catia).
• AI & Advanced Modeling: Practical experience implementing machine learning frameworks (Scikit-learn, PyTorch, etc.) or creating Reduced Order Models (ROMs) to accelerate development cycles.
• CAE Core Competency: Understanding of structural/crash solvers (e.g., Abaqus, LS-DYNA). Experience in model build requirements, joint/fastener modeling, and correlating virtual results with physical component/subsystem test data.
• Regulatory & Compliance: Knowledge of safety/durability regulations (FMVSS, ECE, NCAP) and experience developing robust countermeasures to meet these requirements.
• Leadership & Collaboration:Experience in leading technical teams and managing global, cross-functional projects and utilizing tools like Jira. Exceptional communication skills to present complex data pipelines and simulation results to executive leadership.

Responsibilities

• Drive AI & Automation Strategy: Develop, drive, & implement AI & Automation strategy (Physics AI, Modsim, Python/MATLAB automation scripts, etc.) to accelerate VHE product development.
• Accelerate CAE Validation Delivery Cycles: Architect the next-generation CAE-SDVP execution framework to eliminate simulation bottlenecks and ensure zero-delay readiness for critical milestones like EIF.
• Unify Virtual & Physical Validation: Own the data pipeline connecting CAD design, FEA/CFD solvers, and physical crash/durability testing to build trust in virtual-first development.
• Automate Engineering Intelligence: Build automated, real-time analytics pipelines that translate raw simulation data into actionable risk assessments for executive leadership. Automate technical report generation processes to provide real-time visibility into performance gaps, simulation fidelity, and program risks.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Automation scripting

Machine learning (ML)

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

Abaqus

LS-DYNA

HyperWorks

Catia

Job description

Rivian is seeking a Senior CAE Automation Leader to build core Python frameworks, Physics AI models, and automated data pipelines for real-time analytics across vehicle hardware engineering. The role bridges structural mechanics with modern machine learning to accelerate next-generation platforms.

The ideal candidate brings 5–8+ years in automotive CAE, strong scripting in Python/MATLAB, and experience with Abaqus/LS-DYNA. Leadership and cross-functional collaboration are essential.