Sr. Battery Cell Engineer

About Rivian

Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions‑free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract.

As a company, we constantly challenge what's possible, never simply accepting what has always been done. We reframe old problems, seek new solutions and operate comfortably in areas that are unknown. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our team shares a love of the outdoors and a desire to protect it for future generations.

• Join Rivian's Advanced Materials Prototype (AMP) organization and develop cutting‑edge battery technologies for Rivian's upcoming vehicle platforms.
• Lead the design and execution of comprehensive validation and test plans for new and emerging technology cells.
• Coordinate with external cell vendors to manage logistics and ensure the timely delivery of cell samples for testing.
• Develop and build custom test fixtures, equipment, and methodologies to accurately assess performance, durability, and safety.
• Perform hands‑on laboratory testing, data acquisition, and analysis to identify performance trends, failure modes, and areas for improvement.
• Support internal laboratory‑scale electrode preparation activities and cell prototyping activities.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams specializing in cell integration, module and pack design, simulation, BMS, and supply chain to balance battery (cell/module/pack) performance, cost, and cycle life.
• Manage lab resources, lab equipment, and organizational operations to ensure optimal allocation of tools, materials, and personnel for efficient project completion.
• Write clear, concise, and detailed technical reports and presentations to communicate findings to stakeholders and leadership.
• Work with engineers and technicians, contributing to the team's overall growth and expertise.

• BS with 5+ years, MS with 3+ years, or a recent PhD graduate in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science, all requiring hands‑on work experience with lithium‑ion batteries.
• Extensive expertise in cutting‑edge battery cell technologies, with a focus on Li‑metal, Li‑polymer, Sodium‑ion, and solid‑state batteries.
• Expertise in cell test activities including new channel set‑up, test schedule file preparation, cell performance tests (RPT, HPPC, Rate capability, low temperature, DCFC, cycle life, etc.), and cell failure analysis.
• Proficiency in cell data analysis, encompassing the ability to extract, process, and interpret large datasets generated from battery testing.
• Knowledge of major methods of battery characterization methods, electrochemical analysis such as CV, EIS, GITT, and/or PITT.
• Experience in driving cell prototyping (pouch, prismatic, and cylindrical) and/or product development efforts relevant to HEV, PHEV, or EV applications is highly preferred.
• Strong project planning and execution skills, with the ability to define clear objectives, break down complex tasks, and establish realistic timelines for successful project delivery.
• Excellent laboratory skills, including prior experience working in a glovebox or dry room environment (handling air‑ and moisture‑sensitive materials with a safety‑conscious mindset).
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to summarize and present insights from large datasets clearly and concisely.

Salary Range for California Based Applicants: $ - $ (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law).

Benefits

Summary:

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.

Rivian is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or…