Senior Materials Engineer: Molded Plastics & Paints

Rivian; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 108,000 - 143,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivian is seeking a materials engineer to guide mold-in-color and painted plastics from early prototyping through validation and production. You will bridge design intent with engineering feasibility, collaborating with Product Development and CMF to drive material selection and scalable applications.

The role requires 5–7+ years in materials engineering, knowledge of decorative materials, and strong problem-solving skills. Travel up to 10% domestically and internationally is expected as needed.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Materials Science, Engineering, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 5–7+ years of materials engineering experience, with focus on mold-in-color and painted plastics; automotive experience preferred.
• Knowledge of decorative materials (plated components, real wood, aluminum), polymeric films, textiles, composites, or natural fibers is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to manage data and testing documentation.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% (domestic and international).

Responsibilities

• Drive material selection, prototyping, and production application for mold-in-color and painted plastics.
• Author Rivian Materials Standards and Test Specifications; lead material sign-offs through Engineering Validation.
• Lead materials R&D focused on sustainability, durability, stain resistance, and cleanability.
• Drive root cause analysis for material-related production issues with Tier suppliers and vendors.
• Provide material modeling data to support digital simulation and CAE workflows.
• Collaborate with Supplier Quality and Purchasing to evaluate and develop material suppliers.
• Apply first-principles thinking to technical challenges and uphold Rivian values.

Skills

Communication

Problem solving

First principles

Cross-functional

Documentation

Education

B.S. in Materials Science/Engineering (M.S. preferred)

Tools

Google Workspace

Job description

Rivian is seeking a materials engineer to guide mold-in-color and painted plastics from early prototyping through validation and production. You will bridge design intent with engineering feasibility, collaborating with Product Development and CMF to drive material selection and scalable applications.

The role requires 5–7+ years in materials engineering, knowledge of decorative materials, and strong problem-solving skills. Travel up to 10% domestically and internationally is expected as needed.