Sr. Manager, Test & Development Vehicle Engineering Labs

Rivian • Torrance, CA

2h

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.

In the Sr. Manager, Test & Development Vehicle Engineering Labs role, you will oversee the operation of testing labs that are dedicated to validating various attributes that are inherent to Rivian’s vehicles. You will manage a team to both operate and maintain the test systems, all while delivering actionable test data to internal customers. Focus in this position will be placed on ensuring testing efficiency, data quality, and the continuous advancement of testing capabilities. This role requires a high level of motivation, as well as an understanding of dynamometers, thermal test chamber control systems, testing methodology, and product development cycles in a fast-paced development environment.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor of Science (or higher) in Mechanical Engineering or another related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of prior experience working with dynamometers (chassis and/or engine).
• Ability and interest to travel – 25% to remote locations (out of California), 25–50% split coverage across multiple southern California test locations.
• Hands-on experience testing electric vehicles.
• Working knowledge of various types of test instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• A proven history of project leadership, team management, and delivering consistent results.
• Familiarity with standardized test protocols such as EPA guidelines.
• Problem solving skills and willingness to actively engage in the troubleshooting of issues.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Minimum age of 21.
• No driving-related suspensions or revocation of Driver License (within a 3–5 year period).
• No drug or alcohol related driving incidents in the last 3 years.
• No more than 1 serious moving violation in the last 3 years.
• Must have a valid driver’s license in the state of residence that you will be driving/operating a vehicle.
• Will be subject to continuous Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) monitoring.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with AVL systems (PUMA & Concerto).
• Proficient with JAMA, JIRA, and Confluence tools.
• Experience operating and testing prototype vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Manage a strong, cross-functional team across multiple locations and time zones; with expertise in vehicle-level testing to run labs focused on range & efficiency, full vehicle electrodynamic vibratory and thermal testing.
• Collaborate and coordinate with teams on their upcoming test requests to gain alignment on capabilities, procedures, and expected results.
• Schedule upcoming testing in accordance with company priorities and product development timelines.
• Develop and document procedures for these new labs as it pertains to test execution, safety, maintenance, and calibration of equipment.
• Review upcoming product roadmap and proactively assemble resources required for future testing.
• Ensure test results are accurate and actionable, enabling domain owners to drive improvements to vehicle performance and controls.
• Maintain operational readiness and maximize uptime of testing equipment.
• Define requirements needed to perform testing of benchmark vehicles.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

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