Sr. Safety Test Technician

Role Summary

The Senior Vehicle Test Technician at Rivian plays a key role in the physical execution of our safety and performance programs. This hands‑on role within the workshop is responsible for the end‑to‑end preparation, teardown, and analysis of vehicle safety assets for full vehicle crash test, component or assembly testing and complex subsystem tests. You will work as the bridge between theoretical engineering and physical validation, ensuring every test asset is built and prepared to precise specifications and that the testing environment remains safe and efficient.

• Provide expert hands‑on support for vehicle rebuilds, retrofits, and complex teardown activities following high‑energy test events.
• Collaborate directly with Test Engineers to execute full‑vehicle crash tests, sled testing, and component‑level safety evaluations.
• Support the installation, extraction, and shipment of critical safety components including airbags, seats, and active safety sensors.
• Maintain the Rivian onsite workshops; manage tool inventory, equipment calibration, and vehicle setup stations to ensure test‑ready status at all times.
• Assist in the design, fabrication, and assembly of custom test fixtures; maintain an organized fixture repository for recurring DVP requirements.
• Support electrical teams in the installation and repair of both Low Voltage (LV) and High Voltage (HV) vehicle content (training provided).
• Coordinate the organization and secure storage/recycling of pre‑ and post‑test parts; assist engineering teams in the initial analysis of physical test outcomes.
• Operate heavy machinery (forklifts, Stringos, vehicle lifts) and maintain a rigorous safety standard for all personnel within the test environment.

• Associate degree in Engineering/Technology or equivalent Automotive Test Technician certification/work experience.
• Strong foundational understanding of Automotive Safety components (Airbags, body crash components, electrical architecture).
• Proven ability to work with both mechanical assemblies and electrical systems (LV/HV).
• High level of comfort with heavy machinery, fabrication tools, and vehicle diagnostic equipment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) for incident reporting and documentation.
• Effective communicator across all levels (verbal, email, and digital messaging) to ensure test accuracy and team safety.
• Willingness to work extended hours/night sessions during critical vehicle prep windows and travel out‑of‑state as project needs dictate.
• Collaborative mindset: a team‑first attitude is essential; thrive in high‑pressure environments where coordination is key.
• Detail‑oriented: precision is non‑negotiable when preparing safety assets; notice small discrepancies that could impact test data.
• Problem solver: proactive in identifying workshop inefficiencies and suggesting improvements to fixture designs or workflows.
• Resilient: comfortable working in a physically demanding environment that requires heavy lifting and standing for extended periods.

The salary range for this role is $34.17–$42.71/hour for Michigan based applicants and $40.67–$50.84/hour for New York based applicants. The salary within the range will be based on competencies, education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs. The successful candidate may also be eligible for annual performance bonus and equity awards.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full‑time and part‑time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including paid vacation, paid sick leave, and a competitive portfolio of insurance benefits including life, medical, dental, vision, short‑term disability insurance, and long‑term disability insurance to eligible employees. You may also participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet eligibility requirements.

Full‑time employee coverage is effective on the first day of employment. Part‑time employee coverage is effective on the first of the month following 90 days of employment. More information about benefits is…