Staff Test and Validation Engineer

Rivian • Normal, IL

3h

About The Position

As a Staff Battery Test Engineer, you will be a foundational technical leader within the battery organization in Normal, IL. You will be responsible for defining the long-term architectural vision for the testing and validation of current and next-generation high-voltage battery systems. In this role, you will act as a bridge between Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality, ensuring that our validation strategies are not only rigorous but also scalable and industry-leading. You will serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME), mentoring senior engineers and driving the technical roadmap for our state-of-the-art battery lab.

Requirements

• Experience: 10+ years of experience in battery testing, power electronics, or EV powertrain validation (or equivalent demonstrated impact).
• Education: BS/MS/PhD in Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering.
• Systems Thinking: Proven track record of leading complex projects that span multiple engineering disciplines (Software, Thermal, Mechanical, and Cell Chemistry).
• Expertise with automotive test tools such as Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, CANape, Tracetronic ECU-Test, Vehicle SPI preferred.
• Experience working with battery cycling and automation test equipment (NHR, TLU, Lynx)
• Communication: Ability to distill complex technical failures into strategic recommendations for non-technical leadership.
• Expertise on consolidating large quantities of data to analyze and interpret test results.
• High energy and self-motivated
• ~20% Domestic and/or International Travel

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Act as the primary technical authority for high-voltage battery validation, providing high-level direction to lab personnel and external partners on complex Li-Ion battery system behaviors (electrical, thermal, safety, and longevity).
• Methodology Innovation: Pioneer the development of novel test methodologies and "First Principles" validation assessments. Drive the standardization of test outlines for next-generation HV battery systems.
• Infrastructure Strategy: Lead the technical specification and sourcing strategy for large-scale test equipment, ensuring the lab remains at the cutting edge of battery technology.
• Advanced Data Analytics: Develop automated data pipelines and analytical frameworks to transform raw test data into actionable insights for the wider organization.
• Systemic Problem Solving: Lead cross-functional Root Cause Analysis (RC) for complex, multi- system failure modes, influencing design changes at the cell, module, and pack levels.
• Risk Mitigation & Governance: Lead and approve high-stakes technical assessments, including DFMEA, PFMEA, and DVP&R. Ensure "Read Across" activities are integrated into the global design cycle to prevent repeat issues.
• Technical Memory & Standards: Design and oversee the organization’s "Technical Memory"— building the templates, lessons-learned databases, and ADV Toolboxes that define how the company validates batteries.
• Cross-Functional Influence: Represent the Battery Test organization in Key Stakeholder Reviews and Executive-level design reviews, influencing Product Development and Change Management strategies.

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees