Supplier Development Engineer Careers at Rivian - Drive Quality in EV Manufacturing

Role Overview

Join Rivian, the pioneering EV manufacturer redefining electric adventure vehicles, as a Supplier Development Engineer. Based in Plymouth, Michigan, Normal, IL, or Atlanta, GA, you'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to enforce Rivian's stringent quality standards across contract manufacturers. Your role ensures seamless production scaling for service parts, directly impacting new program launches and ongoing operations. With up to 50% travel, you'll engage suppliers on industrialization, APQP, and PPAP, driving KPIs like Cpk/Ppk and PPM. If you have 1-3+ years in supplier quality engineering, expertise in automotive components, and knowledge of IATF 16949, this is your chance to contribute to sustainable mobility.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

As a Supplier Development Engineer at Rivian, you'll be at the forefront of quality excellence in electric vehicle production:

• Engage suppliers for industrialization readiness across multiple automotive components, aligning with program timelines.
• Support supplier selection and capability assessments for greenfield and brownfield projects.
• Drive APQP discipline and enforce PPAP requirements, validating dimensional, material, and performance standards.
• Develop and track KPIs including PPAP on-time approval, process capability (Cpk/Ppk), first-pass yield, and PPM targets.
• Lead process audits, PFMEA reviews, control plan validation, and equipment Run@Rate assessments.
• Optimize manufacturing scalability to meet ramp-up volume and quality demands.
• Monitor performance via on-time submissions, defect rates, and corrective action effectiveness.
• Facilitate problem-solving with structured methodologies to resolve defects and roadblocks.
• Collaborate cross-functionally on VA/VE cost optimization, integrating designs into supplier processes.

These responsibilities position you to make a tangible impact on Rivian's mission to keep the world adventurous with emissions-free EVs.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel as a Rivian Supplier Development Engineer, bring these qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field.
• 1-3+ years supplier quality engineering experience in automotive settings.
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, CAPA, Lean manufacturing, and traceability.
• Technical expertise in automotive designs, safety/test requirements, and appearance approvals.
• GD&T and datum structures proficiency, plus experience in extrusion and fabrication.
• VDA 6.3 credentials preferred; deep knowledge of IATF 16949:2016, ISO 14001, ISO 9001.
• Physical ability to stand/walk 8-10 hours, travel up to 50%, and work in varied environments.

Rivian values diverse backgrounds united by a passion for the outdoors and innovation.

Salary & Benefits

Earn a competitive salary range of $71,000 - $88,800 USD yearly for Michigan/Illinois applicants (Georgia similar), based on experience, skills, and location. Additional perks include:

• Annual performance bonuses and equity awards.
• Comprehensive insurance: medical, dental, vision, life, STD, LTD.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program.
• Full-time benefits start day one; family coverage up to age 26.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building electric adventure vehicles; we're challenging conventions to protect the planet. As a Supplier Development Engineer, you'll work with curious, courageous teams in a dynamic environment. Our diverse group shares a love for the outdoors, driving innovation in EV manufacturing. Enjoy cutting-edge projects, professional growth, and the satisfaction of scalable, high-quality production. Locations in Plymouth, MI, Normal, IL, and Atlanta, GA offer proximity to vibrant communities and Rivian's state-of-the-art facilities. Be part of reframing problems and exploring the unknown.

With a focus on sustainable EVs, Rivian offers unparalleled opportunities for impact. Suppliers rely on your expertise to meet rigorous standards, ensuring adventure vehicles deliver reliability and performance. Grow your career in supplier quality while contributing to a greener future.

How to Apply

Ready to accelerate your career with Rivian? Apply now for the Supplier Development Engineer role. Submit your resume highlighting APQP/PPAP experience, GD&T skills, and automotive background. Join us in Plymouth, MI or other sites—positions fill fast! Don't miss this chance to shape EV quality at a leader in electric mobility.

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