The role focuses on propulsion thermal system modeling at Rivian, which is essential for validating cooling and refrigerant systems virtually before physical production. The team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of simulation to ensure vehicles achieve high efficiency and thermal reliability. The position requires collaboration with hardware design engineers and suppliers to integrate physical test data into simulation models. Candidates will lead the development of advanced CFD models and optimize thermal architectures for future vehicle platforms.

• Graduate Degree (MS/PhD preferred) in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with a strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• 5+ years of experience in vehicle-level thermal simulations.
• Mastery of GT-Suite is required; familiarity with Simulink/Simscape is a plus.
• Advanced experience in single-phase and multiphase CFD (Star-CCM+ or ANSYS Fluent).
• Excellent understanding of EV powertrain cooling loops, refrigeration systems, thermal components, and associated control strategies.
• Hands-on experience with Thermal Chamber, Climatic Wind Tunnel, or coolant/refrigerant bench testing is a plus.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to delegate and encourage delivery from cross-functional teams and external suppliers.
• Familiarity with CATIA or ANSA for geometry extraction and simulation prep.

• Own the creation, correlation, and release of 1D thermal models for powertrain cooling and heating loops.
• Drive high-fidelity CFD development for components and system developments, specifically targeting two-phase flow in refrigeration systems.
• Own the drive-cycle virtual validation for aggressive propulsion thermal management.
• Collaborate deeply with hardware design engineers and suppliers to audit component performance and integrate physical test data into simulation twins.
• Perform trade-off analysis between conflicting engineering constraints to optimize next-generation thermal architectures.
• Communicate technical requirements and simulation results across organization boundaries.
• Architect and maintain a robust supplier-based component performance maps and simulation archive.

• Employees at Rivian are often offered comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) with company match, ESPP and potential RSU grants, performance bonuses, and generous time off including paid parental and sick leave. Perks can include 24/7 mental-health coaching and therapy, Hinge Health for Anthem enrollees, tuition assistance and professional development, plus on-site food and a wide range of employee discounts on items like computers, mobile phones, home loans, and pet care.