Staff Audio System Engineer

Rivian•Palo Alto, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a versatile Senior Audio System Engineer to lead the technical integration of our next-generation vehicle audio systems, with an edge towards physical acoustics, acoustical design and integration. At Rivian, you will be the primary authority on the electro-acoustic interface. You will own the performance of the "physical sound" chain—from the specification of 3rd-party transducers and microphones to the optimization of cabin acoustics. Coming from previous automotive experience or high-end audio background, you possess the technical rigor to manage global suppliers and the "systems thinking" required to integrate high-fidelity playback and high-clarity voice capture into a complex mobile environment.

Requirements

7+ years in audio system engineering.
Proven experience managing 3rd-party transducer and microphone programs.
Expert knowledge of acoustic transducers and microphone technology.
Familiarity with the mechanical challenges of sealing, porting, and isolating microphones in an automotive environment.
A background in high-end audio or specialized consultancies where you managed the holistic end-to-end audio performance of a product.
High proficiency in Klippel, Audio Precision and acoustic characterization software such as SoundCheck, Clio, SMAART, etc.
Experience with Matlab, Python, and acoustic simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, VituixCad, LSPCad) are a strong pluses.
You are a "builder" who can navigate the ambiguity of new platform development while holding external partners to the highest standards of acoustic and manufacturing excellence.
You thrive in a fast-paced, exciting and dynamic environment

Nice To Haves

Bonus if you come from an automotive audio background.

Responsibilities

Serve as the lead authority on transducer physics and integration. Define specifications for 3rd-party speakers and enclosures, ensuring they are perfectly matched to our in-house designed amplifiers.
Own the end-to-end microphone hardware integration strategy. This includes mic selection, placement optimization, and mechanical isolation to minimize structural vibration and wind noise.
Partner with the Audio Hardware Engineer (Electronics) to define the end-to-end signal chain. You will focus on the acoustic requirements of both the playback (speakers) and capture (mic arrays) systems.
Work with Design, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Thermal teams to optimize speaker and microphone packaging. You will be responsible for ensuring that "hidden" microphones maintain high speech-intelligibility indexes (STI) without compromising cabin aesthetics.
Familiarity with audio DSP systems such as Audio Weaver, MiniDSP, or other similar systems. You will collaborate with Audio DSP Engineers to support tuning activities such as optimization of limiters, power handling, and crossovers
Lead acoustic testing and validation using tools such as Klippel, Soundcheck, Audio Precision, HATS (Head and Torso Simulators), and others. Troubleshoot component and system-level issues, and work with suppliers on production end-of-line test requirements.