Staff Test Engineer, Drivetrain

Rivian; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivian is seeking a Staff Test Engineer for their Drivetrain team to work on the validation of innovative electric adventure vehicles. This role involves developing test infrastructure and working closely with design and quality teams to ensure robust product testing. The ideal candidate will have expertise in mechanical systems, be proficient in programming, and possess strong documentation skills while enjoying a collaborative and adventurous work environment.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in hands-on mechanical integration and assembly.
• Understanding of electrical harness fabrication techniques.
• Experience with finite element analysis for evaluating stress and strain.

Responsibilities

• Develop specifications for test infrastructure required to perform product validation.
• Operate test infrastructure in support of product development testing.
• Train technicians and test engineers on the proper use of test infrastructure systems.

Skills

Mechanical integration

Troubleshooting

Documentation

MATLAB

Python

Finite element analysis

Data acquisition

Tools

3D modeling software

Catia

PLM

Job description

Staff Test Engineer, Drivetrain

Job Description

About Rivian

Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract.

As a company, we constantly challenge what’s possible, never simply accepting what has always been done. We reframe old problems, seek new solutions and operate comfortably in areas that are unknown. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our team shares a love of the outdoors and a desire to protect it for future generations.

Role Summary

The Future Programs team exists to expand the definition of Electric Adventure Vehicle with new product and ecosystem solutions. We are specifically focused on addressing local transportation and the outsized impact towards Keeping the World Adventurous Forever that comes with disrupting short, high emission trips.

Responsibilities

• Work with design, reliability, quality, and service to identify failure modes and generate design validation plans
• Develop specifications for test infrastructure required to perform product validation testing
• Generate proposals for make vs. buy decisions related to test infrastructure
• If “make” then design, build, instrument, and automate test equipment
• Commission test equipment
• Operate test infrastructure in support of product development testing
• Own the upkeep, modification and capability expansion of test infrastructure systems
• Train technicians and test engineers on the proper use of test infrastructure systems
• Post process test data and present findings to product design teams and leadership
• Quality troubleshooting resulting in supplier corrective action

Qualifications

• Proficiency in hands-on mechanical integration, assembly, troubleshooting and documentation of mechanical and electromechanical systems
• Basic knowledge of electrical harness fabrication techniques and the ability to build & quality test basic electrical harnesses in support of integration and test activities
• Understanding of mechanical & electrical safety measures and comfortable working around 1kW+ power supplies, batteries, power transmission systems
• Ability to clearly document and present project material to all levels of leadership
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and product lifecycle management (PLM). Catia preferred but not required
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or equivalent programming language
• Strong fundamental knowledge of statics, dynamics, and mechanics of materials
• Strong fundamental understanding of material properties, heat treatment
• Experience with finite element analysis for evaluating stress, strain, and modal response
• Strong familiarity with precision test equipment, motion systems, metrology and data acquisition

Equal Opportunity

Rivian is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. 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.

Rivian is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at [e-mail].