Exterior Vehicle Validation Engineer - Hardware & Test Plans

Responsibilities

• Own vehicle hardware validation plans.
• Develop and manage comprehensive subsystem validation plans (DVPs) for Exteriors across specific vehicle programs, aligned to DFMEA and requirements.
• Define verification strategies at system, subsystem, and component level, including ED/DV/MV coverage and build‑phase alignment.
• Define clear, data‑driven criteria.
• Partner with CAE and DREs to link physical validation to analytical predictions and regulatory/certification requirements.
• Continuously improve test methods and coverage.
• Research and benchmark new industry validation methods; identify gaps in Rivian’s current portfolio and introduce new tests needed to achieve target vehicle performance for Exteriors and vehicle hardware.
• Develop and revise Rivian Testing Standards (RTS), capturing lessons learned from previous test programs.
• Lead vendor collaboration and on‑site execution.
• Work closely with external test labs to quote, source, plan, and schedule validation testing to meet program budgets, maturity needs, and timing milestones (SVP/IVP/CVP/FVP).
• Provide hands‑on support at labs (Rivian and external) for setup, shakedown, debug, and first‑time or complex tests; ensure fixtures, tooling, and procedures are safe, robust, and compliant with RTS and RPS guidance.
• Troubleshoot issues and drive closure.
• Assist in troubleshooting issues identified during validation (performance, durability, BSR/NVH, fit/finish, or safety concerns), working with DREs, CAE, reliability and suppliers to identify root cause, define corrective actions, and document outcomes.
• Use DFMEA, test data, and field/quality feedback to refine validation plans and requirements.
• Own test documentation and compliance.
• Receive, catalog, and archive external test reports and Rivian test reports in accordance with record retention and data‑management policies; ensure traceability to DVP line items and parts/maturity.
• Develop tools, fixtures, and cost models.
• Design or review validation‑specific tools and fixtures in CAD (e.g., durability rigs, impact fixtures, environmental setups) to ensure repeatable, representative loading and boundary conditions.
• Own and continuously improve the test cost estimator for vehicle hardware validation: generate cost estimates, challenge supplier quotes, and highlight trade‑offs between scope, timing, risk, and budget.
• Collaborate across teams.
• Partner daily with Product Engineering (DREs), CAE, TPMs, supplier quality, lab technicians, and external partners to align on priorities, risks, and trade‑offs.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; advanced degree a plus.
• 1+ years of experience in automotive (or closely related) requirements, validation, and/or mechanical system design, with significant exposure to strength, fatigue, and durability testing for structural and/or Exterior components.
• Deep familiarity with vehicle hardware validation (Exterior, Interior, Closures, Structures, and/or Chassis): environmental, durability, mechanical, and functional tests; BSR/NVH and craftsmanship a plus.
• Experience developing and interpreting DVP&R, test standards (OEM or industry), and DFMEA‑driven validation plans.
• Strong command of statistical methods for validation (sample size, reliability/confidence intervals, attribute vs. variable data).
• Practical experience designing, commissioning, or improving test fixtures and tooling using CAD.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace; comfort working in Jira and other lifecycle/requirements tools (e.g., Jama, Flow, Enovia) is a plus.
• Soft skills:
  
  Proven ability to self‑direct in a fast‑changing program environment, while keeping stakeholders aligned on priorities and risks.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to synthesize complex test results into clear recommendations for engineers, TPMs, and leadership.
• Collaborative mindset and a track record of building trust with design, validation, supplier, and lab partners.

The salary range for this role is $85,400 - $94,900 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…