Staff Building Automation Engineer Careers at Rivian - Normal, Illinois

Role Overview

Join Rivian’s mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy as a Staff Building Automation Engineer in Normal, Illinois. Rivian, the pioneering EV manufacturer, seeks a technical leader to optimize plant utilities operations at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. This critical role supports the Plant Utilities Operations Manager in delivering exceptional system performance, driving infrastructure projects, and ensuring seamless facility operations for producing emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles.

As a Staff Facilities Controls Engineer, you’ll leverage expertise in HVAC controls, PLC programming, and building automation systems (BAS) to enhance efficiency, safety, and reliability. From designing fault-tolerant DDC architectures to developing intuitive graphical interfaces, you’ll play a pivotal role in maintaining Rivian’s competitive edge in electric vehicle production. Ideal for seasoned controls engineers passionate about sustainable manufacturing, this position offers hands-on impact in a dynamic, innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

The Staff Building Automation Engineer at Rivian drives operational excellence through these core responsibilities:

• Lead infrastructure projects: Coordinate with architecture/engineering firms to develop design criteria, layouts, and detailed drawings for facility systems.
• Optimize system performance: Evaluate operational systems, troubleshoot complex HVAC/plumbing/controls issues, and implement efficiency improvements.
• Develop advanced controls: Create high-performance graphical interfaces, sequence of operations (SOO), P&IDs, and functional specifications for chillers, boilers, and air handling equipment.
• Manage budgets and schedules: Oversee corporate capital projects, maintenance activities, and ensure delivery on time and under budget.
• Provide technical leadership: Serve as system point of contact for Utilities Maintenance, mentoring teams on troubleshooting, PID control, VFDs, and network configurations.
• Ensure compliance and safety: Adhere to health/safety regulations, building codes, and industry standards while reviewing BOMs and instrumentation.
• Drive innovation: Design scalable networks (BACnet/IP, Modbus, OPC-UA, MQTT) and lead UX discussions with stakeholders.
• Maintain documentation: Develop tag lists, owner requirements, specifications, and scope of work for sustainable operations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally: Communicate effectively across design, construction, operations, and manufacturing teams.

Qualifications & Requirements

Rivian seeks candidates with proven expertise in industrial controls engineering. Key qualifications include:

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s in Engineering (Electrical preferred) with 3-5+ years as hands-on controls engineer in manufacturing/industrial settings.
• Technical Proficiency: Mastery of Ignition, Delta Controls, Wago PLCs; PID control, VFDs, Ethernet networks (BACnet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU), and IoT protocols.
• Project Management: Track record of completing projects on time/under budget, with construction management and mentoring experience.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot in high-pressure environments with limited standardization, interpreting blueprints, P&IDs, and regulations.
• Software Skills: AutoCAD/Visio for submittals, BOM creation, cost estimation, and fault-tolerant system programming.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder meetings, report writing, and cross-discipline collaboration.

Previous experience in automotive manufacturing or large-scale facilities is highly preferred.

Salary & Benefits

Salary Range: $125,800 - $157,200 USD per year, commensurate with experience. Rivian offers a competitive total rewards package including:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Equity grants and employee stock purchase
• Paid parental leave and flexible PTO
• Tuition reimbursement and career development
• On-site amenities: gym, cafeteria, EV charging
• Rivian vehicle discounts
• Relocation support for Normal, IL

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn’t just building electric vehicles—we’re redefining adventure. Our Normal, Illinois plant is at the heart of producing R1T trucks and R1S SUVs. As a Staff Building Automation Engineer, you’ll contribute to sustainable manufacturing that protects the outdoors for future generations. Enjoy a collaborative culture with diverse teams, cutting-edge tech, and real impact on global electrification. Rivian provides growth opportunities, work-life balance, and the chance to work on mission-driven projects in a rapidly scaling company.

How to Apply

Ready to power Rivian’s facilities with advanced automation? Apply now for the Staff Building Automation Engineer position in Normal, Illinois. Submit your resume highlighting controls engineering experience, PLC proficiency, and BAS projects. Join thousands of innovators shaping the future of EVs. Don’t miss this opportunity—positions fill quickly!

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