Sr. Materials Engineer - Raw Materials Supplier Development at Rivian

Role Overview

Join Rivian, the pioneering EV manufacturer redefining electric adventure vehicles, as a Sr. Materials Engineer - Raw Materials Supplier Development in Tustin, California. This critical role drives supplier quality and industrialization for raw materials like plastics, rubber, and adhesives, ensuring Rivian's emissions-free vehicles meet the highest standards. With 50% travel, you'll collaborate cross-functionally to scale production seamlessly, optimize costs, and accelerate Rivian's mission to keep the world adventurous forever.

Rivian isn't just building cars; we're challenging conventions in the electric vehicle industry. As a Sr. Materials Engineer, you'll lead supplier readiness, enforce rigorous quality processes like APQP and PPAP, and troubleshoot complex issues onsite. Perfect for polymer experts passionate about sustainability and automotive innovation.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

In this dynamic position, you'll spearhead initiatives that directly impact Rivian's supply chain excellence:

• Lead supplier industrialization for plastics, rubber, and adhesives, ensuring alignment with program timelines.
• Support supplier selection for greenfield and brownfield projects via capability assessments.
• Drive APQP and PPAP to validate dimensional, material, and performance standards.
• Conduct process audits, PFMEA reviews, and equipment capability evaluations.
• Optimize scalability for high-volume production ramps with KPI monitoring (Cpk/Ppk, PPM, yield).
• Resolve issues proactively using structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Collaborate on VA/VE for cost optimization and design implementation.
• Draft materials specifications and coach suppliers on Rivian standards.
• Act as SME for onsite troubleshooting and sustainability-aligned processes.

Expect 50% travel to global suppliers, fostering partnerships that propel Rivian's growth.

Qualifications & Requirements

To thrive at Rivian, bring proven expertise in polymer supply chains:

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5+ years experience (Bachelor’s) or 3+ years (Master’s) in polymers/raw materials manufacturing.
• Expertise in APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and automotive component manufacturing.
• Knowledge of injection molding, compounding, tooling, GD&T, and IATF 16949:2016.
• Strong data analysis, communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to travel 50% and work in dynamic, diverse environments.

Preferred: Master’s degree and supplier audit leadership experience.

Salary & Benefits

Rivian offers a disclosed salary of $98,500 - $123,100 USD yearly, competitive with top EV manufacturer roles in California. Total compensation includes:

• Comprehensive health benefits with low premiums.
• 401(k) match up to 4%.
• Unlimited PTO and parental leave.
• RSUs and ESPP for equity ownership.
• EV discounts on Rivian vehicles.
• Tuition assistance and career growth programs.
• Wellness stipends and gym memberships.
• Adventure perks like outdoor gear subsidies.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian is more than an EV company—we're a movement to protect the outdoors through innovative electric adventure vehicles. Work with curious, courageous teams in Tustin, CA, tackling unknown challenges daily. Enjoy a diverse, inclusive culture with a shared passion for sustainability. As a Sr. Materials Engineer, you'll shape the future of raw materials in EVs, reducing BoM complexity and costs while hitting sustainability targets. With rapid growth, this role offers unparalleled impact and advancement in the booming electric vehicle sector.

Rivian's Tustin hub is at the heart of Southern California's innovation ecosystem, blending cutting-edge tech with outdoor access. Join us to reframe problems, drive supplier excellence, and build vehicles that inspire adventure worldwide.

How to Apply

Ready to accelerate Rivian's supplier development? Apply now for the Sr. Materials Engineer role in Tustin, CA. Submit your resume highlighting polymer experience, APQP/PPAP expertise, and automotive supply chain achievements. Rivian recruits top talent—don't miss this chance to join an EV leader. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; apply today!

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