Sr. Thermal DRE
Listed on 2026-08-17
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Engineering
Mechanical Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Quality Engineering
Sr. Thermal Engineer
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 role of Sr. Thermal Engineer is to interface internally with Body, Studio, Packaging, Attributes, NVH, Aerodynamics, CAE, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, working with Tier 1's on design and manufacturing thermal components for mass production release. Components specifically supported in this role HVAC, ORFM, AGS. The position will be on site based in Plymouth Michigan.
Responsibilities:
- Design and release of mass production thermal system components, HVAC modules, HVAC air intake ducts, ORFM (Outside heat-exchanger, Radiator Fan module), brackets
- Interface with Body, Studio, Packaging, Attributes, NVH, Aerodynamics, and CAE engineering to ensure optimal design and integration for aerodynamic and range efficiency
- Support supply chain with engineering requirements throughout quotation and sourcing
- Interface with suppliers on design, release, tooling, and validation
- Support critical program milestones and build events, e.g. Virtual Release, Virtual Build, Design Verification Build, Manufacturing Verification Build, etc
- Engineering Specification, Design Verification, & Production Verification plans for thermal components for future vehicles
- Develop/Review foundation documents as required, including risk assessment/management, DFMEA, PFMEA, and Functional Safety
- Interface with Plant Quality Engineers, Manufacturing Engineering, Process Engineering, General Assembly and ensure all Design for Manufacturing and Design for Assembly standards are met
Qualifications:
- Minimum BSME degree in mechanical/automotive engineering
- 10+ years of experience related to thermal component design, release, and production launch, maintenance: cost reduction/quality improvement
- OEM/Tier 1 experience on thermal components (HVACs/Ducts/heat-exchangers)
- Proficiency in CAD for design and release; CATIA V6 preferred
- Knowledge on thermal, mechanical, NVH, durability, corrosion, and electrical requirements for thermal components and refrigerant cycle
- Experience on at least one full product cycle from concept creation to mass production
- Ability to work and communicate effectively with peers and leadership
- Ability to work independently and proactively in fast-paced environment
- Experience on heat pump technology and development required
- Experience with future refrigerants and secondary loop systems (R290, Blends) a strong plus
- Ability to work with hands on experience is a plus
- Travel will be required occasionally to suppliers (International included), our manufacturing plant in Normal Illinois, and headquarters in Irvine California
Pay Disclosure:
Salary Range Michigan-Based Applicants: $98,500-$123,100 (actual compensation will be determined based on experience, and other factors permitted by law). Benefits
Summary:
Rivian provides robust medical/Rx, dental and vision insurance packages for full-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26. Coverage is effective on the first day of employment.
Equal Opportunity:
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
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