The Senior Materials Engineer, Metals at Rivian will lead material selection and validation for ferrous metal systems while providing support for light-metal applications. This role requires deep metallurgical expertise, particularly in steels, and the ability to navigate the full product lifecycle from concept to customer experience. The engineer will collaborate with various teams to ensure material performance targets are met and drive decisions across design, manufacturing, and quality. The ideal candidate will possess strong problem-solving skills and a passion for improving product performance and reliability.

• Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
• 5+ years of experience in automotive related product development environments
• Experience with automotive steel sheet grades such as advanced high strength steels and their processing
• Strong metallurgical background in steels, including phase transformations and heat treatment
• Working knowledge of aluminum and other light-metal systems
• Hands-on experience with microscopy, formability testing, and mechanical testing
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as stamping, casting, and welding
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Lead material selection and technology development for steel and ferrous alloys on all Rivian products
• Define material requirements, specifications, validation plans, and acceptance criteria for components and manufacturing processes
• Partner with design, manufacturing, quality, and supplier development teams to ensure material performance targets are achieved
• Drive failure analysis and root cause investigations related to metallic components
• Evaluate tradeoffs across performance, cost, manufacturability, and supply base capability
• Support development and release of material standards, test methods, and best practices
• Review and approve supplier technical packages including material data and control plans
• Translate laboratory and production findings into clear technical recommendations

• 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.