Lead Engineer, Vehicle Architecture

Rivian • Plymouth, MI

6d

About The Position

The Lead Engineer, Vehicle Architecture serves as a technical link throughout vehicle program development, managing system and component packaging from initial concept through production. The role works closely with subsystem engineers to ensure packaging feasibility within an assigned vehicle integration zone while balancing competing engineering priorities.

The position leads technical integration, design packaging, CAD studies, prototype development, cross-functional issue resolution, and coordination with manufacturing, service, and the design studio. It also conducts benchmarking analyses to support competitive vehicle development.

Requirements

• B.S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• At least 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 corresponding design principles.
• Strong grasp of key automotive manufacturing processes, such as stamping, injection molding, and casting.
• Working knowledge of regulatory and certification requirements.
• Experience with standard 3D CAD software such as CATIA V5 or V6.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary technical owner and point of contact for a primary vehicle integration zone.
• Maintain the design environment and manage static and dynamic clearances to prevent clashes, follow ergonomics criteria, assess engineering solutions through sections, and ensure subsystem CAD compatibility.
• Create motion envelopes, packaging studies, 3D criteria, occupant packages, and vehicle layouts.
• Coordinate physical prototype development to support studies.
• Drive data-driven resolution of complex cross-functional trade-offs and topics involving engineering and design teams.
• Create, assign, and manage compatibility issues and conduct regular architecture zone review meetings.
• Partner with manufacturing and service teams to support efficient component installation and serviceability while meeting functional requirements.
• Work iteratively with the design studio, analyzing Class A surfaces for production feasibility and coordination with interconnected vehicle systems.
• Conduct benchmarking analyses to maintain a technical competitive advantage.
• Challenge industry norms and maintain a focus on delivering exceptional products.

Benefits

• Paid vacation
• Paid sick leave
• Life insurance
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Short-term disability insurance
• Long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) Plan, subject to eligibility requirements
• Employee Stock Purchase Program, subject to eligibility requirements
• Annual performance bonus and equity awards may be available

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior