Staff Vehicle Aerodynamicist: Lead Aero for EVs (Equity)

Rivian; Tustin (CA); On-site; USD 154,000 - 193,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivian is seeking a Staff Vehicle Aerodynamicist to lead aerodynamic development for next-generation electric adventure vehicles. You will set drag, lift, and cooling targets, partner with Design for surface optimization, and drive CFD and wind tunnel efforts from concept to production validation.

You will mentor engineers, establish best practices for simulations, and communicate complex data to executive leadership to guide strategic decisions and maintain Rivian’s leadership in aerodynamic

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; Master’s or PhD preferred.
• 6+ years of experience in automotive aerodynamics, specifically within an OEM or motorsport environment.
• Deep expertise in commercial CFD codes and their application to full-vehicle aerodynamics.
• Extensive experience with wind tunnel testing and data correlation.
• Proficiency in CAD surface development (CATIA V6 preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical subjects to non-technical leadership and cross-functional partners effectively.
• Strong scripting/data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB) to automate workflows and post-processing is a plus.
• Proven track record of taking a vehicle program from initial clay model to start of production

Responsibilities

• Attribute Leadership: Own the aerodynamic attribute for major vehicle programs, setting rigorous targets for drag coefficient, lift balance, etc.
• Design Partnership: Collaborate daily with the Design team to guide surface development and optimize exterior surfaces while respecting styling intent.
• Simulation & Analysis: Lead advanced CFD campaigns to visualize flow structures and identify efficiency opportunities.
• Testing & Validation: Plan and execute wind tunnel test programs with detailed DVP and validation.
• Executive Communication: Regularly present status, risks, and trade-off studies to VP-level leadership and program directors.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Work with Thermal, NVH, Soiling, Vehicle Dynamics, and Range teams on trade-offs for holistic performance.
• Mentorship: Mentor Senior Engineers and foster technical excellence within the Aerodynamics team.

Skills

Aero/Mechanical Engineering expertise

Vehicle Aerodynamics

CFD proficiency

Wind tunnel experience

CAD surface development (CATIA V6)

Python/MATLAB scripting

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Master’s or PhD preferred

Tools

CATIA V6

Commercial CFD codes

Job description

Rivian is seeking a Staff Vehicle Aerodynamicist to lead aerodynamic development for next-generation electric adventure vehicles. You will set drag, lift, and cooling targets, partner with Design for surface optimization, and drive CFD and wind tunnel efforts from concept to production validation.

You will mentor engineers, establish best practices for simulations, and communicate complex data to executive leadership to guide strategic decisions and maintain Rivian’s leadership in aerodynamic