Failure Analysis and Materials Engineering Technician Careers at Rivian - Normal, Illinois

Role Overview

Join Rivian's innovative Failure Analysis and Materials Engineering (FAME) team as a Failure Analysis and Materials Engineering Technician in our state-of-the-art Materials Testing Laboratory in Normal, Illinois. Rivian is leading the charge in emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles, and this role places you at the heart of ensuring material quality across every product line. You'll collaborate with subject matter experts, operate cutting-edge lab equipment, and champion data-driven engineering standards. If you have hands-on experience in materials testing or a relevant degree, this is your chance to make a real impact on Rivian's mission to keep the world adventurous forever.

Our Normal, Illinois facility is a hub of innovation where diverse backgrounds unite around a shared passion for the outdoors and sustainable technology. As a technician, you'll assist in failure analysis investigations and materials characterization, handling everything from metallurgical sample prep to non-destructive testing. Training is provided, but prior experience with tools like XRF, hardness testers, and machine shop equipment will set you apart.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

In this dynamic role, you'll drive Rivian's materials excellence through hands-on technical work. Key responsibilities include:

• Assist FAME engineers in both failure analysis investigations and materials characterization projects across Rivian vehicles.
• Perform wide-ranging materials testing on components from Rivian production shops, ensuring quality and reliability.
• Operate metallurgical equipment for sample x-sectioning, grinding, polishing, and etching.
• Use machine shop tools such as band saws, drill presses, lathes, and milling machines for precise preparation.
• Conduct advanced testing including macro photography, optical microscopy, hardness testing, and XRF alloy identification.
• Execute non-destructive examinations using dye penetrant and magnetic particle inspection methods.
• Perform preventative maintenance on all lab equipment to maximize uptime and efficiency.
• Manage lab operations, including ordering consumables, chemical inventory, and sample organization/tracking.
• Maintain databases for Rivian materials testing specs and property data.
• Generate reports and present findings clearly to engineers and scientists.

These tasks ensure Rivian's EVs meet the highest standards of durability and performance in real-world adventure conditions.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed as a Failure Analysis and Materials Engineering Technician at Rivian, bring these qualifications:

• Educational Background: BS in Materials Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent; OR 2+ years hands-on materials testing experience.
• Testing Expertise: Experience in mechanical testing (fatigue, tension, compression, shear, peel) and environmental testing (UV, weathering, temperature, humidity).
• Analytical Skills: Familiarity with computational analysis of materials/welds and generating test data for CAE teams.
• Standards Knowledge: Experience writing/editing testing standards; familiarity with ASTM, ISO, AWS specs, and automotive structures (Body, Interior, Chassis).
• Materials Familiarity: Knowledge of polymers/polymer chemistry, steel, and aluminum metallurgy.
• Safety Focus: Desire to promote health and safety culture in the lab.

Prior hands-on operation of lab equipment is highly desired, but Rivian provides comprehensive training to get you up to speed quickly.

Salary & Benefits

Rivian offers competitive compensation for Illinois-based applicants: $34.17 - $42.71 hourly, translating to approximately $71,000 - $105,000 annually based on full-time status and experience. Actual pay considers location, expertise, and market factors.

Benefits package includes:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical/Rx, dental, vision starting day one.
• Premium Coverage: Rivian pays most premiums for employees, spouses/partners, and children up to 26.
• Training & Development: On-site equipment training in advanced lab.
• Career Growth: Impact across all Rivian product lines with expert team.
• Work-Life Balance: Supportive culture focused on innovation and outdoors.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building EVs; we're redefining adventure with sustainable, high-performance vehicles. As a Failure Analysis Technician, you'll work in a collaborative environment that challenges conventions and embraces the unknown. Our Normal, IL team shares a love for protecting the outdoors while pushing materials science boundaries. Enjoy equal opportunity, accessibility accommodations, and a mission-driven culture. Be part of the team accelerating the shift to electric mobility.

How to Apply

Ready to advance your career in materials engineering at Rivian? Apply now for the Failure Analysis and Materials Engineering Technician position in Normal, Illinois. Submit your resume highlighting relevant experience. Rivian is an equal opportunity employer committed to diverse, inclusive hiring. For accommodations, email candidateaccommodations@rivian.com. Don't miss this opportunity to join a leader in EV innovation!