Mechanical Engineering Summer 2026 Internships at Rivian - Irvine, CA

Role Overview

Rivian, the pioneering electric vehicle manufacturer redefining adventure mobility, seeks passionate Mechanical Engineering interns for Summer 2026. Based in Irvine, California, this internship offers unparalleled hands-on experience across Rivian's cutting-edge teams. From Battery Engineering to Vehicle Safety, interns dive into the heart of emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles.

This general application positions you for roles in Advanced Energy Solutions, Chassis, Manufacturing, Prototypes & Special Projects, Quality, Reliability, Safety, Technical Program Management, Test & Development, and Vehicle Attributes. Must be an undergraduate or graduate student with graduation expected between December 2026-2028. Rivian internships are optimized for students, emphasizing real impact in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Join a team that challenges conventions, reframes problems, and pushes boundaries in EV engineering. Rivian's mission to keep the world adventurous drives every project, blending outdoor passion with engineering excellence.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

• Collaborate on Advanced Energy Solutions for next-gen battery architectures.
• Support Battery Engineering in pack design, thermal management, and integration.
• Contribute to Chassis systems including suspension, steering, and structural analysis.
• Optimize Manufacturing processes for scalable EV production.
• Build and test Prototypes & Special Projects for adventure vehicle innovations.
• Perform Quality inspections and reliability assessments on mechanical assemblies.
• Enhance Safety features through crash testing and compliance validation.
• Manage Technical Program timelines and deliverables in cross-functional teams.
• Execute Test & Development protocols for vehicle dynamics and attributes.
• Analyze data using CAD software and engineering first principles.

Interns work alongside experts, gaining exposure to the full vehicle development lifecycle while navigating ambiguity in Rivian's dynamic culture.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field from accredited university.
• Eligibility: Active enrollment with graduation Dec 2026-2028; must meet university internship requirements.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA); strong grasp of engineering fundamentals.
• Soft Skills: Excellent communication, teamwork across disciplines, and ambiguity tolerance.
• Experience: Applied mechanical engineering knowledge; bonus for EV, automotive, or prototyping exposure.
• Location Flexibility: Primarily Irvine, CA with considerations for other Rivian sites.

Rivian values diverse backgrounds united by curiosity and environmental stewardship. No prior professional experience required—passion for innovation suffices.

Salary & Benefits

Irvine-based Mechanical Engineering interns earn $26.00-$45.00 per hour, translating to $52,000-$83,200 annualized for full-time equivalent. Pay factors include experience, skills, and location. Rivian offers:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Medical insurance benefits
• Full details at rivianbenefits.com
• Professional development opportunities
• State-of-the-art facilities and tools

Competitive compensation reflects Rivian's commitment to attracting top talent for its mission.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building electric trucks and SUVs—it's accelerating the shift to sustainable adventure. Interns contribute to vehicles that conquer trails while protecting the planet. Work with diverse teams in a culture that celebrates courage, curiosity, and outdoorsmanship.

Gain insider access to EV manufacturing, from concept to production. Network with leaders shaping the future of mobility. Many interns transition to full-time roles, launching careers at a hyper-growth company.

• Work on real projects with tangible impact
• Collaborate in cross-functional, high-energy teams
• Experience Rivian's innovative, outdoor-inspired HQ
• Build skills for Mechanical Engineering careers in EVs

How to Apply

Applications accepted on rolling basis—no fixed deadline. Submit via careers.rivian.com. Selected candidates receive interview invitations for specific openings. Prepare your resume highlighting CAD experience, engineering projects, and passion for Rivian's mission.

Rivian is an EEO employer. Accommodations available at candidateaccommodations@rivian.com. Don't miss your chance to intern at Rivian—apply now and adventure into EV engineering!