Sr. Design Release Engineer, Drive Unit Differentials

Rivian • Plymouth, MI

1d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Senior Design Release Engineer (DRE) – Differentials to lead the differential requirements establishment, technical development, integration, and release of differential systems / technologies for our next-generation vehicles at Rivian.
In this role, you will be the technical lead for differential technologies across multiple vehicle powertrain drive unit programs—spanning Open, Limited Slip (eLSD/LSD), Locking, and Disconnecting Differentials / Disconnect Unit architectures. You will bridge the gap between concept design, supplier management, vehicle integration, and mass production, ensuring high torque efficiency, NVH refinement, and optimized range for our electric drivetrains.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in drivetrain, axle, or transmission engineering, with specific focus on differential design/release.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, NX) and PLM systems.
• Deep knowledge of mechanical differential architectures: Open Differentials (bevel/planetary gear sets), Limited-Slip Differentials (clutch-pack, mechanical, eLSD), Disconnect Systems (dog-clutches, electromechanical actuators, free-wheeling units).
• Strong understanding of differential interfaces, such has Halfshafts, Gears, Actuator/Electrical, etc.
• Proficiency in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and stack-up analysis.
• Experience running and interpreting DFMEA and DVP&R documentation.
• Strong project management, communication, and vendor-management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Direct experience with BEV drag-reduction strategies (e.g., front-axle disconnect units for AWD BEVs).

Responsibilities

• Author and manage Rivian Statement of Requirements (SOR) for Drive Unit Differential technologies, lead supplier compliance assessment to SOR thru sourcing; as well as Engineering Change Requests (ECRs), Bill of Materials (BOMs), and technical specifications within PLM software (e.g., Teamcenter, Enovia).
• Work cross-functionally purchasing and technical program manager (TPM) members, lead/support supplier technical reviews, technical assessments, and compliance to SOR.
• Use Pugh Matrix and document adherence to requirements, risk assessment, and technical recommendation. Work cross functionally with purchasing and technical program manager (TPM) members.
• Manage the full product lifecycle from concept (CAD geometry) through Design Validation (DV), Process Validation (PV), launch, and continuous improvement.
• For electro-mechanical systems, partner with Software & Controls teams to optimize disconnect actuators, and seamless front/rear axle disconnect strategies for maximum BEV efficiency. Lead collaboration for Rivian advanced technology exploration such as eLSD.
• Collaborate with NVH & Efficiency teams to minimize gear whine, mesh friction, and drag losses inherent to high-RPM electric motors.
• Work closely with Drive Unit Manufacturing & Assembly engineers to ensure Design for Manufacturability/Assembly (DFM/DFA).
• Direct tier-1 suppliers on component development, tooling timelines, cost targets, and quality deliverables.
• Lead engineering risk assessments including DFMEA, DVP&R, and Boundary Diagrams.
• Root-cause technical issues during prototype builds, dyno testing, track validation, and field operations using 8D / 5-Why methodologies.

Benefits

• robust medical/Rx, dental and vision insurance packages for full-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Coverage is effective on the first day of employment.

What This Job Offers

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