Validation Engineer

Rivian Job OpportunityRivian 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 SummaryIn this position, you will lead full-vehicle over-the-road (OTR) durability verification and validation, as well as road load data collection. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional partners—including durability, chassis, dynamics, and program teams—to evaluate vehicle integrity, optimize test setups, and drive continuous improvement. This position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to Rivian's mission by ensuring structurally durable vehicles for our customers. With your experience and proactive mindset, you'll play a vital role in ensuring an outstanding future for sustainable mobility.ResponsibilitiesExecute multiple accelerated full vehicle structural durability tests concurrently at the proving groundsManage vehicle durability test planning, coordination, execution, and results reporting, with a primary focus on structural durability and fatigue performancePerform failure analysis & inspections of the vehicles with a primary focus on body, chassis, and suspension system durabilitySupport road load data collection, component/subsystem DVPs, CAE correlation and target settingManage test vehicle logistics, incoming inspections, component condition monitoring, and track scheduling to maximize durability fleet uptimeTroubleshooting & root cause issues to resolve complex vehicle hardware and software issues to minimize track downtimeDocument vehicle condition, test reports, and log issues to program teams and functional groupsQualificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, materials engineering, or a related field2+ years of full-vehicle structural durability testing, accelerated fatigue testing, and objective/subjective vehicle evaluation experienceHands-on experience troubleshooting vehicle hardware/software issues using CAN bus tools and data acquisition systemsExperience organizing DVPs, managing fleet logistics, and utilizing tools like Jira and Confluence for task tracking and issue escalationStrong capability to lead independent root cause analysis, conduct hardware/software debugging, and execute teardownsExperience with vehicle instrumentation, data collection and processing is a plusExperience with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, nCode or other programming languages or analysis software is a plusProven track record of problem-solving and independent root cause analysisExceptional communication, organizational, and relationship-building skillsAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment and manage competing prioritiesPassion for Rivian's mission and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplacePay Disclosure: The salary range for this role is $111,000-138,700 for Michigan 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.