Vehicle Testing Technician II

Rivian•Irvine, CA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Vehicle Hardware Validation Technician supports Vehicle Hardware Engineering (VHE) by executing in-house structural, durability, and mechatronic tests. This hands-on lab role focuses on safe, efficient test execution, reliable data, and an organized work environment.

Requirements

2+ years in a hands-on test lab, validation, R&D, or manufacturing technician role (mechanical/structural focus preferred).
Working knowledge of mechanical systems, basic statics, and load paths.
Experience operating electro-mechanical equipment (actuators, robots, or similar) with a strong safety focus.
Proficiency with basic measurement tools; exposure to 3D scanning, CMM, and data acquisition systems.
Comfortable with basic fabrication, assembly, hand soldering, and simple wiring/harness documentation.
Ability to lift and position components and fixtures using proper ergonomics.
Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and communication in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Completion of a technical program in Automotive Technology, Collision Repair, or an associate degree in Engineering Technology (or similar) is preferred.
Experience with industrial robots or automated test cells is a plus.
Familiarity with CAD models, engineering drawings/GD&T, and tools like Jira or similar tracking systems.

Responsibilities

Set up and run structural and durability tests using servo-electric actuators and robot-based equipment.
Install and align test articles, fixtures, and sensors (load, displacement, strain where applicable).
Monitor tests for safety, data quality, and equipment health; stop and escalate when issues arise.
Support mechatronic system tests, including sensors, actuators, control modules, and CAN/VECTOR interfaces.
Build and validate sensor wiring and routing for structural and mechatronic test setups.
Perform 3D scanning and CMM arm measurements to support geometry capture and correlation with simulation.
Safely operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment to move vehicles, components, and fixtures.
Perform light fabrication and rework (drilling, cutting, simple brackets, hardware installation) for test setups.
Maintain a safe, orderly lab (housekeeping, 5S, basic equipment checks) and track parts/fixture inventory.
Document test setups, conditions, anomalies, and results, and provide concise summaries to engineers.