Role Overview

Join Rivian as a Subject Matter Expert, Crash Structures in Irvine, California, and lead the charge in revolutionizing electric vehicle safety. Rivian is pioneering emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles designed for the outdoors, and this senior system-level engineering role is pivotal in achieving superior crash performance. You'll define strategies that comply with FMVSS, UNECE, US NCAP, and Euro NCAP regulations while optimizing vehicle architecture for safety, energy management, and hardware integration.

As a crash structures SME, you'll influence program decisions from concept development through validation, leveraging first principles engineering, physical testing, and CAE simulations. This isn't just a job—it's your chance to shape the future of automotive safety at a company that's redefining adventure. With 15+ years of expertise required, you'll serve as the technical authority, mentoring teams and driving cross-functional innovation.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

In this high-impact role, you'll tackle complex challenges head-on. Here's what your day-to-day will look like:

• Lead strategy and execution: Influence vehicle architecture and program decisions for optimal crash performance.
• Design validation methods: Combine physical testing, CAE guidance, and first principles for predictive accuracy.
• Develop integration plans: Coordinate structures, battery systems, and HW domains at the vehicle level.
• Oversee testing operations: Manage build-up, instrumentation, and correlation from components to full vehicles.
• Manage safety hard points: Create and review across all design phases for regulatory compliance.
• Execute test plans: Align with DVP, FMVSS, NCAP targets, and refine for efficiency.
• Solve performance gaps: Balance trade-offs in safety, cost, HW, and timelines with innovative solutions.
• Mentor and lead: Guide engineering teams on system integration and crash strategies.
• Monitor standards: Track global regulations like IIHS and integrate best practices.

Expect to collaborate across teams, present to leadership, and drive decisions without direct authority—perfect for strategic thinkers who thrive in dynamic environments.

Qualifications & Requirements

Rivian seeks proven leaders with deep automotive safety expertise. Key qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field (advanced degrees preferred).
• 15+ years in automotive safety engineering, vehicle testing, or system integration.
• Expertise in crash dynamics: load paths, energy management, and multi-domain interactions.
• Strong knowledge of FMVSS, UNECE, NCAP, IIHS standards and protocols.
• Proven track record in CAE, physical testing, and validation method innovation.
• Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Project management experience tracking milestones, risks, and program metrics.
• Ability to travel to launch locations and work under pressure with resilience.

If you have a strategic mindset, influence without authority, and passion for protecting adventurers through superior EV safety, this is your role.

Salary & Benefits

Earn a competitive $171,100 - $213,900 USD yearly salary (California-based), determined by experience and location. Rivian offers industry-leading perks to support your adventure:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision insurance from day one.
• 401(k) with matching and employee stock purchase program.
• Unlimited PTO and paid parental leave.
• Rivian vehicle discounts for employees.
• Professional growth stipends and leadership training.
• Wellness programs including on-site gyms and mental health support.
• Equity grants to share in Rivian's success.
• Adventure perks like outdoor gear partnerships.

This total rewards package reflects Rivian's commitment to attracting top talent who share our mission.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building EVs—we're keeping the world adventurous forever. Our diverse team challenges conventions, reframes problems, and innovates in uncharted territories. As a Crash Structures SME, you'll contribute to vehicles that protect passengers while conquering trails. Work in Irvine's vibrant tech hub, collaborate with brilliant minds, and enjoy a culture of courage, curiosity, and conservation. With rapid growth and global impact, Rivian offers unparalleled opportunities for senior engineers to lead and legacy-build.

Experience the thrill of program wins, from first-pass crash successes to regulatory triumphs. Rivian's backing by Amazon and Ford ensures stability and resources for bold ideas. Join us to protect future generations' outdoor playgrounds through cutting-edge safety engineering.

How to Apply

Ready to drive Rivian's safety revolution? Apply now for the Subject Matter Expert, Crash Structures position in Irvine, CA. Submit your resume highlighting 15+ years in automotive crash safety, CAE expertise, and leadership wins. Include specific examples of FMVSS/NCAP projects and system integrations.

Rivian reviews applications on a rolling basis—don't miss out on this senior role shaping EV adventure vehicles. Expect interviews focusing on technical depth, strategic thinking, and cultural fit. Travel readiness and US work authorization required. Apply today and accelerate your career with Rivian!