Sr. Materials Engineer

Rivianis 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.

In this role, you will provide technical guidance for mold-in-color, painted plastics, and finished materials. Partnering closely with Product Development and Color Materials & Finishes (CMF), you will bridge design intent with engineering feasibility guiding materials from early prototyping through validation and production.

• Development & Prototyping: Partner with Product Development and CMF to drive material selection, prototyping, and production application for mold-in-color and painted plastics.
• Validation & Standards: Author Rivian Materials Standards and Test Specifications, and lead material sign-offs through the Engineering Validation process.
• Advanced Materials & Sustainability: Lead materials R&D focused on sustainability, durability, stain resistance, and cleanability.
• Production & Issue Resolution: Drive root cause analysis for material-related production issues, working directly with Tier suppliers and material vendors.
• Digital Validation: Provide material modeling data to support digital simulation and CAE workflows.
• Supplier
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work alongside Supplier Quality and Purchasing to evaluate, qualify, and develop material suppliers.
• Technical Leadership: Apply a first-principles approach to technical challenges, demonstrate continuous learning, and embody "Rivian Compass" values.

• Education: B.S. in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Experience: 5–7+ years of materials engineering experience, with a focus on mold-in-color and painted plastics (automotive experience preferred).
• Material Expertise: Knowledge of decorative materials (plated components, real wood, aluminum), polymeric films, textiles, composites, or natural fibers is a plus.
• Execution & Problem-Solving: Proven ability to manage multiple complex material projects, solve technical issues using first principles, and work directly with global vendors.
• Communication & Detail: Strong written and verbal communication skills across cross-functional, multi-site teams; meticulous in testing documentation and data management.
• Business Acumen & Tools: Sound commercial/financial awareness, proficiency with Google Workspace, and ability to travel up to 10% (domestic and international).

The salary range for this role is $107,800 - $142,900 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 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 but not limited to 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 have the…