Role SummaryEvery electric-vehicle propulsion battery pack must pass a comprehensive validation plan, including accelerated life, shock, vibration, and structural load testing and demonstrate that it meets all requirements and performance attributes before entering production. We're looking for a seasoned vibration and structural testing expert to lead validation efforts for our next-generation propulsion battery packs.
As the Battery Test & Validation Manager, you'll own the mechanical and structural test strategy from first principles through execution and lead a team of test and validation engineers. You'll apply deep technical domain expertise to shock, vibration, and structural dynamics challenges and translate that expertise into validation plans that withstand scrutiny from every group with a stake in the outcome.
This is a highly cross-functional role. You'll partner with design, CAE, structures, vehicle loads, vehicle test, design-for-reliability, battery pack manufacturing, and business teams. You'll align groups with differing priorities and drive test plans that are technically sound and compliant with test standards.
Responsibilities- Lead a team focused on component and system-level mechanical, structural dynamics, and vibration testing, overseeing test implementation, reporting, and data analysis.
- Develop validation strategies and create design validation plans in coordination with diverse cross-functional partners.
- Track progress on the testing and analysis, and drive the mitigation of design concerns using first principles, data and analysis of results.
- Oversee the design, review, and procurement of fixtures required for test execution.
- Guide test-profile and instrumentation strategies, including the layout, installation, and calibration of strain gauges, accelerometers, and high-speed cameras.
- Ensure that standards are met when post-processing and interpreting time-series and frequency-domain data and extracting key structural metrics such as fatigue limits, damping ratios, stiffness, and plastic deformation.
- Partner with CAE teams to deliver high-quality empirical data that supports model correlation and simulation validation.
- Review and approve test reports and post-test findings, clearly communicating results and recommendations to design owners and cross-functional stakeholders.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, engineering mechanics, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field; an advanced degree is a plus.
- 7+ years of relevant experience in mechanical or structural system validation and test engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Hands-on experience operating mechanical test equipment, including electrodynamic or hydraulic shakers and multi-axis vibration tables.
- Demonstrated ability to guide and mentor engineering talent, fostering professional growth while aligning daily technical tasks with key team objectives.
- Ability to work effectively with limited supervision while maintaining a focus on high-level objectives.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing clear technical reports and presenting data-driven recommendations.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed, up to approximately 30%.
Preferred Qualifications
- Deep domain knowledge and experience in shock and vibration testing, structural dynamics, root-cause analysis, and mechanical failure investigation.
- Hands-on experience validating high-voltage lithium-ion battery packs, EV automotive systems, or similarly complex electromechanical systems.
- Working knowledge of international testing standards and industry best practices for vibration and structural testing.
- A track record of being able to make a compelling case for change to others and securing stakeholder buy-in early
Pay DisclosureThe salary range for this role is USD 125,00 - 156,200 for California based applicants. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, shift, and organizational needs.
The successful candidate may be eligible for annual performance bonus and equity awards.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time and part-time employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26, including but not limited to paid vacation, paid sick leave, and a competitive portfolio of insurance benefits including life, medical, dental, vision, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance to eligible employees. You may also have the opportunity to participate in Rivian's 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program if you meet certain eligibility requirements. Full-time employee coverage is effective on their first day of employment. Part-time employee coverage is effective the first of the month following 90 days of employment. More information about benefits is available at rivianbenefits.com.
You can apply for this role through careers.rivian.com (or through internal-careers-rivian.icims.com if you are a current employee). This job is not expected to be closed any sooner than October 20, 2026.
Please note that we are currently not accepting applications from third party application services. 
