Lead Color Materials & Finish Designer

Rivian • Irvine, CA

132d • $154,000 - $192,500

About The Position

As a Lead CMF Designer at the Rivian Design Studio, you will drive the aesthetic vision for our vehicles, accessories, and energy products. You will be a vital part of a team that creates and executes world-class products, pushing the boundaries of material innovation and translating our brand philosophy into a tangible experience. You will be involved in every aspect of the CMF design process, from trend research and story creation to material development and final production. Success in this role requires a demonstrated ability to create compelling and innovative solutions, while collaborating with global suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure successful implementation.

Requirements

• Your portfolio is a critical component of your application. Please provide a link and any necessary credentials that allow us to review your work in this space. Submissions without a portfolio will not be reviewed.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, Textile Design, CMF Design, or equivalent professional experience with evidence of exceptional ability.
• 6+ years of professional CMF design experience with a strong portfolio.
• Relevant experience in the automotive industry, including familiarity with its development and manufacturing processes.
• Superior color acuity, with a proven ability to score 16 or lower on the Munsell Hue Color Test.
• Proficiency in design and visualization software, including Vred, Blender, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and KeyShot.
• Proven ability to leverage emerging technologies such as Adobe Substance, Cinema 4D, Figma, and AI tools to enhance the design process is a plus.
• Proven expertise in materials research and development.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to clearly articulate a design vision and foster cross-functional collaboration.
• A keen eye for sophisticated design, high attention to detail, and a passion for creating premium products.
• Able to manage multiple projects and personal workflows independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across teams and contribute to shared goals.
• Capable of operating and thriving in a fast paced and dynamic work environment.

Nice To Haves

• Proven ability to leverage emerging technologies such as Adobe Substance, Cinema 4D, Figma, and AI tools to enhance the design process.

Responsibilities

• Lead the CMF vision for our entire product ecosystem, defining the creative direction for vehicle interiors, exteriors, and Adventure Products.
• Drive material innovation through advanced research, exploring everything from traditional materials like polymers and metals to textiles, wood, and beyond.
• Manage the entire CMF process from concept through production, ensuring design intent is upheld through color and material development and final implementation across all commodities.
• Forecast and analyze future material trends to inform and develop cohesive CMF strategies for upcoming product development.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, identifying new resources and managing a comprehensive internal library of innovative materials and finishes.
• Create high-quality visualizations using industry-standard software (Vred, Blender, Keyshot, and AI tools) to effectively communicate CMF concepts.
• Benchmark competitive vehicles and support the broader design team in setting design direction.
• Partner with engineering, mastering, and design quality teams to ensure the final product flawlessly reflects the original design intent.

Benefits

• Robust medical/Rx, dental and vision insurance packages for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26.
• Full Time Employee coverage is effective on the first day of employment.
• Part-Time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees