Mechanical Engineer Intern

Rivian • Palo Alto, CA

6d • $45 - $51

About The Position

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.

Join our RVTECH JV team as a Mechanical Engineering Intern. In this role, you will get hands-on experience designing the mechanical systems used to test vehicle electronics. You won’t just be watching; you’ll be helping develop mechanical solutions for design characterization, validation, and manufacturing of next-generation Electronic Control Units (ECUs).

Requirements

• Education: Currently pursuing a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• CAD Skills: Basic proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks is a plus, but Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, or ProE are also great).
• Technical Curiosity: A strong interest in how mechanical hardware interacts with electronics (reading basic schematics or navigating PCB layouts is a plus).
• Hands-on Mindset: You enjoy "building things" and aren't afraid to work with technicians to see your designs come to life.
• Communication: Ability to clearly explain your design choices and collaborate with a team.

Nice To Haves

• Previous internship or project experience in Automotive, Aerospace, or Semiconductors.
• Familiarity with basic electronics/circuitry or vehicle communication protocols (CAN, LIN, etc.).
• Experience with 3D printing or rapid prototyping.

Responsibilities

• Design & Prototyping: Assist in designing modular mechanical fixtures for testing vehicle electronics, starting with manual bench-top setups.
• CAD Engineering: Utilize 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) to create models, assembly drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Hardware Integration: Learn how to design custom mechanical interfaces (like pogo-pin or "bed-of-nails" style probing) to connect to complex vehicle electronics.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work alongside senior engineers to define mechanical test requirements and understand how mechanical design impacts the "testability" of electronics.
• Systems Scaling: Help design rack-based test systems intended for high-volume manufacturing environments.
• Documentation: Gain experience creating professional engineering diagrams and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for automated systems.

Benefits

• Rivian provides robust wellness benefits, and a medical insurance package for interns, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Coverage is effective on the first day of employment, and Rivian covers most of the premiums.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern