Staff Process Engineer, Drive Unit (3rd Shift)

Rivian • Normal, IL

2d

About The Position

Rivian is seeking a Staff Process Engineer to optimize manufacturing processes, uphold product quality, improve yields, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with industry standards and internal specifications. The role supports Drive Unit production and reports to the Sr. Manager of Process Engineering within the Drive Unit Team. It carries significant technical ownership for scaling and optimizing drive unit assembly.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in an engineering discipline.
• 5–7+ years of engineering experience in a high-volume manufacturing operation.
• Creative problem-solving skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Hands-on experience supporting production equipment, including mechanical, electrical, control systems, automation, or robotics.
• Experience using 2D and 3D modeling tools such as AutoCAD and CATIA/ENOVIA.
• Experience or knowledge in DOE, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, torque tooling, error proofing, and PFMEA.
• Experience or certification in Six Sigma DMAIC, Lean Assembly Principles, and time studies using MTM or MODAPTS.
• Proficiency in SPC software such as Minitab or JMP for Cp/Cpk analysis.
• Strong team orientation and cross-functional attitude.
• Availability to work 2nd/night shift.
• Internal candidates must submit an updated resume highlighting relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments.

Nice To Haves

• High-volume automotive and/or drive unit or propulsion manufacturing experience.
• Knowledge of SQL for data extraction.
• Experience with Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma, or Lean Six Sigma.
• Direct experience with DUA, DUT, and/or SPIM/DPIM manufacturing processes.
• Experience in an EV-specific powertrain environment.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate engineering changes and new program launches.
• Review, interpret, and summarize statistical data to drive process improvement.
• Determine best-practice approaches for materials, tooling, equipment, and labor processes.
• Develop and maintain work instructions, standardized work, process flows, and PFMEAs.
• Work with design engineering to develop designs suitable for high-volume production while ensuring manufacturing quality.
• Work with manufacturing engineering to commission and optimize next-generation drive unit and propulsion assembly equipment.
• Perform time analysis using a standard motion time system such as MODAPTS; estimate production times, manage staffing requirements and labor costs, and drive line balancing.
• Support production teams with process- and equipment-related troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
• Develop recovery and troubleshooting best practices and procedures to increase equipment availability.
• Investigate assembly issues and implement solutions by reviewing product design, established processes, and equipment and tooling effectiveness.
• Use SPC data to identify trends, reduce scrap, and drive measurable process improvements.
• Monitor quality KPIs and develop cost-reduction action items with cross-functional teams.

Benefits

• Paid vacation.
• Paid sick leave.
• Life insurance.
• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Short-term disability insurance.
• Long-term disability insurance.
• Opportunity to participate in Rivian's 401(k) Plan, subject to eligibility.
• Opportunity to participate in Rivian's Employee Stock Purchase Program, subject to eligibility.
• Potential eligibility for annual performance bonuses and equity awards.

What This Job Offers

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