Staff Vehicle Aerodynamicist

Rivian•Irvine, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Staff Vehicle Aerodynamicist to lead the aerodynamic development of our next-generation electric adventure vehicles. In this pivotal role, you will serve as the technical authority on vehicle aerodynamics, driving the attribute from early concept scaling through to production validation. You will balance the technical demands of drag reduction, lift balance and cooling requirements with the aesthetic vision of our Design Studio, ensuring our vehicles are as efficient as they are capable. As a Staff member, you will not only execute high-level technical work but also act as a primary communicator to executive leadership, translating complex fluid dynamics data into clear, actionable strategic direction. You will mentor the wider team, establish best practices for simulation and testing, and ensure Rivian remains a leader in automotive aerodynamic efficiency.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; Master’s or PhD preferred.
6+ years of experience in automotive aerodynamics, specifically within an OEM or motorsport environment.
Deep expertise in commercial CFD codes and their application to full-vehicle aerodynamics.
Extensive experience with wind tunnel testing and data correlation.
Proficiency in CAD surface development (CATIA V6 preferred).
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical subjects to non-technical leadership and cross-functional partners effectively.
Proven track record of taking a vehicle program from initial clay model to start of production

Nice To Haves

Strong scripting/data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB) to automate workflows and post-processing is a plus.

Responsibilities

Attribute Leadership: Own the aerodynamic attribute for major vehicle programs, setting rigorous targets for drag coefficient, lift balance, etc.
Design Partnership: Collaborate daily with the Design team to guide surface development. You will need to effectively negotiate and optimize exterior surfaces to achieve aerodynamic targets while respecting the vehicle's styling intent.
Simulation & Analysis: Lead advanced CFD campaigns to visualize flow structures and identify efficiency opportunities. Develop new methodologies to improve simulation correlation and turnaround time.
Testing & Validation: Plan and execute wind tunnel test programs according to a detailed and rigorous DVP. Validate aerodynamic concepts using model, buck & prototype testing methodologies.
Executive Communication: Regularly present status, risks, and trade-off studies to VP-level leadership and program directors. You must be able to distill complex technical phenomena into clear business and engineering decisions.
Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with Thermal, NVH, Soiling, Vehicle Dynamics, and Range teams to manage trade-offs (e.g., cooling airflow vs. drag) and ensure a holistic vehicle performance.
Mentorship: Act as a technical mentor to Senior Engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning within the Aerodynamics team.