Role Overview

Join Rivian's innovative UIUC Research Park Intern - Motor Controls Development program in Champaign, Illinois, and become part of the electric vehicle revolution. Rivian, the leader in emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles, seeks curious PhD students from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to assist the Electric Power Conversion (EPC) team. This Summer 2026 internship focuses on developing and validating cutting-edge motor control algorithms using Model-Based Design, Matlab/Simulink, Python, and SQL in cloud platforms like Databricks.

As a Rivian intern, you'll simulate motor behavior, analyze real-world fleet data, and run Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) tests to push the boundaries of EV powertrain technology. Perfect for Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering PhD candidates with expected graduation between December 2026 and May 2028, this role offers hands-on experience in AC motor theory, 3-phase power electronics, and functional safety (ISO 26262). Located at the state-of-the-art UIUC Research Park, you'll collaborate with top engineers on mission-critical projects that keep the world adventurous forever.

Rivian's internship program is optimized for students, emphasizing practical skills in EV motor controls development. Gain exposure to high-voltage systems, cloud data analytics, and automotive innovation while enjoying Champaign's vibrant college town atmosphere.

Key Responsibilities at Rivian

In this dynamic role, you'll drive real impact on Rivian's next-generation electric vehicles. Key responsibilities include:

• Develop sophisticated motor control logic using Matlab/Simulink for precise EV powertrain performance.
• Build and optimize Python/SQL scripts within Databricks to process massive fleet datasets.
• Create unified workflows that directly compare simulation results against field data from Rivian vehicles.
• Execute comprehensive test cases on HIL benches to validate algorithm robustness.
• Analyze and document root-cause findings, presenting insights to the EPC engineering team.
• Collaborate on Model-Based Design methodologies for motor behavior simulation.
• Support validation of control algorithms in real-world EV applications.
• Contribute to power electronics and AC motor theory implementations.
• Leverage cloud platforms for big data analysis in automotive contexts.
• Participate in team discussions on functional safety standards like ISO 26262.

These action-oriented tasks ensure you'll build a portfolio of high-impact work, directly influencing Rivian's adventure-ready EVs.

Qualifications & Requirements

To thrive in this Rivian motor controls internship, candidates must meet these essential qualifications:

• Must be currently pursuing a PhD at UIUC – exclusive opportunity for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign doctoral students.
• Actively pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, or closely related field.
• Strong proficiency in Matlab/Simulink for advanced control logic development.
• Core understanding of AC motor theory and 3-phase power electronics.
• Solid programming foundations in C and Python.
• Preferred: Prior EV industry experience or work with high-voltage lab equipment.
• Preferred: SQL knowledge and cloud-based data analysis skills.
• Plus: Understanding of Functional Safety (ISO 26262) principles.

Rivian values diverse backgrounds united by passion for outdoors and innovation. Active student enrollment required with graduation between Dec 2026-May 2028.

Salary & Benefits

Rivian offers competitive compensation for this Champaign, IL internship: $25.00-$40.00 per hour based on qualifications, experience, and location factors. Full-time equivalent estimation: $52,000-$83,200 annually (40 hours/week, 52 weeks). Benefits include:

• Paid vacation and personal time off.
• Paid sick leave for well-being.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Access to full rivianbenefits.com package.
• Professional development in EV technology.
• Networking with Rivian leaders.
• Potential for full-time conversion post-graduation.
• Inclusive equal opportunity workplace.

Why Join Rivian?

Rivian isn't just building electric vehicles – we're redefining adventure. Our team challenges conventions, reframes problems, and innovates in unknown territories. Working at the UIUC Research Park gives you access to world-class facilities and collaboration with UIUC's top talent. As an intern on the EPC team, you'll contribute to sustainable mobility that protects our planet for future generations.

Experience Rivian's culture of courage, curiosity, and outdoor passion. From simulating motor controls to analyzing fleet data, your work powers Rivian's mission. Champaign offers an ideal setting with urban energy and natural beauty nearby. Join a company where diverse teams drive emissions-free innovation.

How to Apply

Ready to accelerate your career in EV motor controls? Apply now through careers.rivian.com (or internal portal for employees). Position open until at least 4/10/2026. Ensure you meet UIUC internship requirements. Rivian accommodates disabilities – email candidateaccommodations@rivian.com. Don't miss this exclusive PhD opportunity at Rivian!