Sr. Test Technician II, Powertrain

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.

The Test Technician, Powertrain is responsible for operating and maintaining dynamometer and associated test systems used for the development and validation of electrified powertrain systems (drive units, gearboxes, and related components). This role works closely with Powertrain Test and Validation Engineers to install, configure, and maintain test properties across a variety of complex powertrain test equipment, ensuring safe, reliable operation and high-quality test data.

Supported by the broader engineering team, the technician provides first‑line troubleshooting of operational issues and helps deliver test results that support Rivian's product development and validation plans.

• Operate and maintain large dynamo meters for vehicle‑ and powertrain‑level testing.
• Build and set up test rigs and dynamo meters for mechanical and/or electrical tests in collaboration with Powertrain, NVH, and Thermal engineering teams.
• Select, install, and verify instrumentation needed to collect response data from products under test (e.g., accelerometers, strain gauges, pressure sensors, thermocouples, thermistors, hygrometers, voltage drop sense leads).
• Support Test and Validation Engineers in executing test plans and implementing test equipment upgrades and modifications to systems under test.

• Perform first‑line fault finding and diagnosis for operational issues that arise on systems under test and associated test equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance as well as complex mechanical and electrical repairs on test rigs, dynos, and related systems.
• Diagnose and repair prototype vehicle electrical, mechanical, and software systems using scan tools, diagnostic equipment, and common automotive test tools.

• Take an active role in Environmental Health & Safety within the laboratory, including contributing to risk assessments and maintaining a safe, well‑organized work environment.
• Follow and promote electric vehicle safety procedures, lockout/tagout practices, and appropriate use of PPE in all test activities.

• Document test setups, procedures, issues, and findings using established processes and systems, including timely escalation when appropriate.
• Generate and maintain process documentation and standard work for test rigs and associated test equipment.
• Provide feedback and implement suggestions to improve workshop standards, protocols, and processes, with a focus on test error‑proofing and repeatability.
• Work effectively in a team environment and communicate clearly with fellow technicians, engineers, and cross‑functional partners.

• Physical Agility:
  Ability to work under strenuous or awkward positions throughout the workday when building, installing, or servicing test hardware.
• Lifting:
  Ability to lift, move, and assemble components and test fixtures as required in a laboratory environment.
• Hazards:
  Comfortable working around high‑voltage systems, rotating machinery, and other hazards in a controlled test cell environment while following all safety protocols.
• Flexibility:
  Willingness to work occasional extended hours, off‑shift coverage, or weekends as needed to support critical test activities and program milestones.

• 5+ years of hands‑on technician experience working directly in test cells and/or with large dynamometer systems.
• 2+ years of experience working with electrified vehicles or electrified powertrain systems.
• Strong experience with test instrumentation, including thermocouples, RTDs,…