Sr. Mechanical Engineer - Closures Mechanisms

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

As a Lead Closures Engineer, you will be the driving force behind the sophisticated mechanisms and structures that define the touchpoints of a world-class vehicle. You'll own the entire lifecycle of high-impact systems, championing 1st principles design to balance cutting-edge aesthetics with elite mechanical performance. This isn't just about component release; it's about collaborating with studio design and manufacturing to bring bold, lightweight systems to life from concept to production. If you're a Catia-savvy innovator ready to mentor talent and influence the next generation of automotive engineering, we want you at the forefront of our mission.


Responsibilities

• Lead collaborative development of closure's Mechanisms (Handles, Actuators, Latches, Regulators, etc) including interface with body engineering, studio design, quality, and customer experience teams.
• Responsible for component release for closure's components and systems throughout program lifecycle, including concept design, supplier engagement, BOM management, systems requirements, simulation analysis, prototyping builds, validation testing, and production support.
• Manage cost and weight for closure's components and systems from initial engineering estimates, through supplier quotes. Ensuring accurate forecasting and implementation plans throughout the development.
• Developing and managing your system, subsystem, and component part information through the Enovia PLM to Catia V6 environment.
• Be a champion of 1st principles design methodology in the body closures systems and across the entire vehicle.
• Engage in debate and represent the closures department as a stakeholder during all body design reviews.
• Mentor and help develop other less experienced engineers.
• Coordinate supplier meetings, track, investigate and resolve issues related to design.
• Drive smooth Product Implementation supporting Manufacturing Engineering from early builds until SOP + 90 days.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineer or related discipline. (Master's degree preferred)
• 5+ years' experience (Preferred) in automotive closures development or equivalent industry experience.
• Understanding of product requirements and closures features to deliver world class customer experience in the following areas:
  • Structures - Hoods, Doors, Tailgate - preferably lightweight systems (aluminum or composite) with knowledge of hinges and kinematic requirements.
  • Seals - Dynamic Sealing, Glass Runs, Finishers.
  • Mechanisms - Handles, Latches, Actuators, Regulators.
• A strong understanding of the 1st principle physics of a closures system - the loads, forces, and overall function of the system, and the tradeoffs among design, package, function, and customer experience involved with these systems.
• Ability to self-direct, self-managing issues to closure involving all necessary teams, and adapt quickly to program changes.
• CAD design experience for closures systems, mechanisms, structures, or related vehicle components. Catia V6 experience preferred but not required.
• Experience on leverage and usage of CAE results, CAE operational knowledge is a plus.
• Knowledge of an automotive design and development process, system requirements, and general engineering best practices
• Good interpersonal and communication skills with a high level of integrity
• Ability to deliver under pressure and manage component design & development within cost, weight, and timing constraints.
• Willingness to travel to suppliers, manufacturing, and testing facilities as required throughout product development.

Pay Disclosure

The salary range for this role is $107,800 - $134,800 for California based applicants. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs.

The successful candidate may be eligible for annual performance bonus and equity awards.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including but not limited to paid vacation, paid sick leave, and a competitive portfolio of insurance benefits including life, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance to eligible employees. You may also have the opportunity to participate in Rivian's 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet certain eligibility requirements. Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment. More information about benefits is available at rivianbenefits.com.

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.

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AI does not make hiring decisions: Qualified candidate applications are reviewed by a member of our team, and all decisions throughout the process are made by humans. We use AI to support efficiency and consistency, not to replace human judgment. We are committed to a fair, thoughtful, and equitable experience for every candidate.

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