Vehicle Testing Technician II

Vehicle Hardware Validation Technician

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.

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.

• 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.

2+ years in a hands-on test lab, validation, R&D, or manufacturing technician role (mechanical/structural focus preferred). Completion of a technical program in Automotive Technology, Collision Repair, or an associate degree in Engineering Technology (or similar) is 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. 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. Ability to lift and position components and fixtures using proper ergonomics. Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and communication in a fast-paced environment.

Onsite lab role with regular interaction with test equipment, vehicles, and heavy components. May require occasional off-shift or weekend work to support critical testing. Strict adherence to PPE, lockout/tagout, and all lab safety protocols is required.

The Hourly Pay Range for this role is $32.49 - $36.10 for California based applicants. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs.

The successful candidate may be eligible for annual performance bonus.

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 characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Rivian is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability or limitation, such as those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, that requires accommodations to assist you in the search and application process, please email us at candi