Failure Analysis Technician

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.

In this role you’ll join a diverse group of subject matter experts in the Failure Analysis and Materials Engineering team and bring your own expertise in the domain of electrical testing and failure analysis. You will make an impact across every Rivian product line by joining our state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and by generating insight through failure analysis investigations for all Rivian products from the vehicle to component level.

You will assist the FAME lab engineers and scientists in their investigations by operating laboratory equipment, generating and collating data, and writing and presenting technical reports to cross‑functional teams.

• Assist FAME engineers and external engineering teams with deep dive and rapid response triage failure analysis investigations across platforms including low voltage and high voltage electrical systems, energy storage systems, and drive units.
• Operate a variety of laboratory equipment, including (prior hands‑on experience highly desired, but training will be provided as needed):
  • Macro photography
  • Optical microscopy
  • 2D X‑ray and CT scanning
  • Basic electrical measurement tools such as digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, signal generators, LCR meters, etc.
  • Sample x‑sectioning equipment (section, grind, polish, and etch)
  • Basic machine shop tools such as band saw, drill press, lathe, milling machine, etc.
  • Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS)
• Perform circuit level troubleshooting including pin‑to‑pin continuity and curve trace.
• Produce clear and concise reports to summarize data collected and be able to clearly present this to appropriate stakeholders.

• B.S. in electrical engineering or relevant degree and 5+ years hands‑on experience supporting electrical failure analysis activities.
• Strong demonstrable experience with electrical testing and associated equipment including power supplies, multimeters, oscilloscopes, etc.
• Proficiency with interpreting electrical schematics.
• Strong academic background and/or experience in the testing and analysis of hardware components including EE components, printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs), energy storage sub‑systems, power converters, motors, and batteries.
• Highly organized and detail‑oriented in documentation and reporting. Familiar with implementing 5S principles.
• Work effectively both independently and in a collaborative environment. Willing to maintain relationships with external engineering partners.
• Able and willing to manage multiple competing priorities.
• Desire to promote a culture of health and safety in the laboratory.

The hourly pay range for this role is $34.17 - $42.71 for Illinois 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 opportunity to participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and…