Vehicle Architecture Lead Engineer

Rivian Automotive; Plymouth (MI); On-site; USD 126,000 - 157,000; Full time

Job summary

Rivian Automotive in Michigan seeks a Lead Engineer, Vehicle Architecture to drive technical ownership of a vehicle integration zone from concept through production. You will coordinate with subsystem engineers, design studios, and manufacturing to balance constraints and deliver production-ready packaging.

The role requires deep knowledge of automotive packaging, CAD, and manufacturing processes, with a passion for exceptional, class-leading vehicles. Standard hours apply, with travel as needed.

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive packaging, including at least one full product lifecycle from concept through production.
• Comprehensive understanding of functional vehicle systems and design principles.
• Strong grasp of automotive manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, injection molding, casting).

Responsibilities

• Zone Technical Leadership: primary technical owner for one vehicle integration zone.
• Design Integration & Packaging: manage clearances, ergonomics, and CAD compatibility.
• CAD Studies: motion envelopes, packaging studies, 3D criteria.
• Prototype development: coordinate physical prototype development.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: resolve trade-offs across engineering and design teams.
• Comprehensive Issues Management: track and manage compatibility issues with zone reviews.
• Manufacturing and Service Feasibility: ensure install efficiency and serviceability.
• Design-Studio Partnership: collaborate on Class A surfaces for production feasibility.
• Proactive Benchmarking: maintain technical competitive advantage.
• Commitment to Excellence: push beyond industry norms to deliver exceptional products.

Skills

Automotive packaging

System integration

Cross-functional collaboration

Design for manufacturability

Engineering problem solving

Education

B.S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

Job description

Rivian Automotive in Michigan seeks a Lead Engineer, Vehicle Architecture to drive technical ownership of a vehicle integration zone from concept through production. You will coordinate with subsystem engineers, design studios, and manufacturing to balance constraints and deliver production-ready packaging.

The role requires deep knowledge of automotive packaging, CAD, and manufacturing processes, with a passion for exceptional, class-leading vehicles. Standard hours apply, with travel as needed.