Sr. Simulation Engineer, Material Flow Careers at Rivian - Normal, Illinois

Role Overview

Rivian is revolutionizing the automotive industry with emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles, and our Sr. Simulation Engineer, Material Flow role is at the heart of our manufacturing innovation. Located in Normal, Illinois or Stanton Springs North, Georgia, this position joins the Factory Design & Simulation team within Digital Manufacturing Engineering & Automation.

As a key player, you'll architect material flow systems using discrete event simulation for future factory projects. Collaborating closely with the Material Flow Team, you'll design from concept to detailed operations handoff. This role demands expertise in material flow principles and simulation modeling, a first-principles problem-solving approach, and a passion for optimization in fast-paced environments.

Why this role matters: Your models will optimize facility footprint, labor efficiency, and throughput, enabling Rivian to scale production of market-leading EVs. Thrive in ambiguity, think systems-level, and drive factory designs that keep the world adventurous.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

Join a highly motivated, agile team and take ownership of critical simulation engineering tasks:

• Construct comprehensive end-to-end material flow simulation models covering the complete Bill of Materials for upcoming products and factory expansions, focusing on facility footprint, labor efficiency, and throughput optimization.
• Engineer and deploy custom modules, objects, and FlexScript/Simtalk solutions for sophisticated simulations tackling intricate material flow challenges.
• Execute capacity planning analyses ensuring precise resource allocation for material handling staff, warehouse capacity, and material handling equipment (MHE).
• Critically evaluate assumptions in current manufacturing designs using first-principles methodology to base recommendations on solid foundations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners in layout design, production control, infrastructure, and manufacturing to execute material flow strategies and compare complex scenarios.
• Develop and sustain digital twin models to test and validate factory operations, warehouses, and material flow systems.
• Recommend improvements in dock capacity, route planning, storage capacity, lot quantity, and kitting design.
• Co-develop standards for discrete event simulation models to standardize tools and processes across Rivian factories.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed as a Sr. Simulation Engineer, Material Flow at Rivian, you need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering, or Computer Science.
• 5+ years experience in industrial/manufacturing engineering focused on discrete event simulation for material flow, supply chain logistics, or process efficiency.
• Proficiency in FlexScript, Simtalk, C++, Python for creating simulation features and modules.
• Strong analytical skills to manage multiple projects in variable, uncertain environments.
• Track record of quantitatively solving ambiguous, systems-level problems.
• Excellent communication skills across all organizational levels.
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic aligned with Rivian’s mission.

Preferred: Proficiency in Excel/Google Sheets, Tableau, SQL, and AutoCAD layout designs.

Salary & Benefits

Salary Range: $98,500 - $123,000 USD yearly (Illinois/Georgia applicants), based on experience and factors like location.

• Relocation Assistance: Mandatory relocation support to Normal, IL or Stanton Springs North, GA facilities.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage.
• Retirement: 401(k) with company matching.
• Time Off: Generous PTO, holidays, and flexible scheduling.
• Equity: Employee stock purchase plan.
• Development: Tuition reimbursement and professional growth opportunities.
• Perks: On-site fitness, free EV charging, adventure team events.
• Culture: Work with diverse, outdoors-loving team protecting the planet.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building EVs; we're redefining automotive manufacturing. Our Factory Design & Simulation team turns industrial strategy into optimized value streams for scalable EV production. Enjoy a collaborative, innovative culture where your simulation expertise directly impacts our mission to Keep the World Adventurous Forever.

Work on cutting-edge digital twins, material flow systems, and factory expansions at world-class facilities. With Rivian's growth, this role offers rapid career advancement in a company challenging the status quo.

How to Apply

Ready to optimize Rivian's factories? Apply now for the Sr. Simulation Engineer, Material Flow position. Submit your resume highlighting discrete event simulation experience, FlexScript/Python skills, and manufacturing projects. Relocation is required—join our Normal, IL or Georgia teams today!

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