Engineering Intern - Heat Pump Systems Careers at Rivian

Role Overview

Join Rivian's innovative Engineering Intern - Heat Pump Systems team in Plymouth, Michigan, and drive the future of electric adventure vehicles. This advanced R&D internship focuses on R290 (propane) secondary loop heat pump systems for next-generation Rivian EVs. As a PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering with thermo-fluids expertise, you'll work on performance characterization, safety assessments, and implementation planning. Collaborate with systems engineering, manufacturing, hardware teams, and external suppliers plus SAE committees. This is your chance to impact emissions-free thermal management solutions that keep the world adventurous.

Rivian internships are optimized for students expecting graduation between December 2026-2028. Gain real-world experience in a fast-paced environment, working 40+ hours weekly on cutting-edge EV technology. Perfect for those passionate about sustainable automotive innovation and outdoor adventure.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

As an Engineering Intern - Heat Pump Systems, you'll tackle mission-critical tasks:

• Work with CAE team to produce comprehensive R290 secondary loop performance data using advanced simulation tools.
• Develop test plans for bench testing and mule vehicle validation, ensuring robust data collection methodologies.
• Assist in prototype procurement, system integration, setup, and real-time data acquisition processes.
• Participate in SAE standard committees to influence industry standards for heat pump safety and performance.
• Collaborate with FuSA experts to create safety evaluation frameworks and mitigation strategies for R290 systems.
• Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders including manufacturing, supply chain, packaging, attributes, controls, and NVH teams.
• Quantify domain impacts across engineering disciplines to support holistic system design decisions.
• Propose timing plans with TPM for seamless implementation into future Rivian vehicle platforms.
• Conduct advanced R&D pushing boundaries of secondary loop heat pump efficiency and safety.

These responsibilities position you at the forefront of Rivian's thermal management innovation for electric vehicles.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel in this Rivian Heat Pump Systems Internship, candidates must meet these criteria:

• PhD pursuit: Currently enrolled in accredited university Mechanical Engineering PhD program specializing in thermo-fluids.
• Technical expertise: Strong knowledge of heat pump systems, components, and secondary loop architectures.
• Testing experience: Hands-on experience with thermal system testing and data collection highly preferred.
• Independence: Proven ability to thrive independently in dynamic, fast-paced engineering environments.
• Communication skills: Excellent verbal, written, and documentation abilities for cross-team collaboration.
• Commitment: Availability for 40+ hours/week during internship term; graduation expected 2026-2028.

Prior exposure to EV thermal management, CAE tools, or automotive R&D is a plus. Rivian seeks curious, courageous innovators ready to reframe thermal challenges.

Salary & Benefits

Earn $25.00-$40.00 per hour ($52,000-$83,200 annualized) based on experience, location, and competencies. Plymouth-based applicants receive this competitive range. Factors include education, skills, certifications, and organizational needs.

Comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Medical insurance coverage
• Professional development opportunities
• Mentorship from industry leaders
• Access to Rivian facilities and tools
• Potential full-time conversion pathways
• Team-building and outdoor activities
• State-of-the-art EV testing resources

Visit rivianbenefits.com for full details. Rivian is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building electric vehicles—we're accelerating the shift to sustainable adventure. Our Plymouth, Michigan team challenges conventions, reframing problems in unknown territories. Work on R290 heat pumps that enhance EV range, efficiency, and safety for real-world outdoor enthusiasts.

Diverse backgrounds unite around protecting the planet through innovation. From CAE modeling to SAE advocacy, your PhD research becomes production reality. Network with suppliers, manufacturers, and thought leaders. This internship builds your resume while contributing to vehicles that keep adventures emissions-free.

Rivian's culture celebrates curiosity, courage, and outdoorsmanship. Join a team that's redefining automotive thermal systems for the electric era.

How to Apply

Ready to power Rivian's heat pump revolution? Apply now through careers.rivian.com (or internal portal for employees). Positions open until at least Feb 10, 2026. Ensure university internship requirements are met.

Rivian accommodates disabilities—email candidateaccommodations@rivian.com. We collect data per privacy laws. Don't miss this chance to intern on cutting-edge EV tech in Plymouth, MI!