Role SummaryAs a CAE Engineer II, you will own the structural integrity, dynamic safety, and craftsmanship performance for Rivian's Interior Hard Trims and Door Trim systems (including portions of Instrument Panels, Consoles, Pillars, Cargo Trim and Door Panels). You will utilize non-linear, transient dynamic simulations to solve complex plastic structural failures, optimize snap-fits, and ensure world-class fit, finish, and occupant safety before physical testing begins.
Responsibilities- Execute High-Fidelity Simulations: Model complex non-linear dynamic, structural, and abuse load cases for Door Trim assemblies, Instrument Panels, Pillars, and Consoles.
- Predict Interior Failure Modes: Predict crashworthiness, airbag deployment dynamics, door slam durability, step loads, and clip-on/snap-fit insertion and extraction forces.
- Non-Linear Polymer Analysis: Evaluate injection-molded plastics, foams, and interior composites under thermal variations to predict creep, stress cracking, and dynamic ribbing/fastener failures.
- Correlate & Validate: Accurately model interior attachment methods (ultrasonic welds, heat stakes, adhesives, clips) and validate virtual models against component and sled test results.
- Optimize & Partner: Work directly with CAD and Design engineers to implement lightweighting, optimize rib patterns, and solve stress concentrations without compromising interior NVH or craftsmanship.
Qualifications- Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering (or related field)
- 3+ years of Automotive Interior CAE Experience
- Time spent in a relevant Master's Degree program may count towards work experience
- Proficiency in LS-DYNA or ABAQUS for non-linear static, dynamic, and dynamic impact/deployment analysis.
- Proficiency in pre/post-processors (ANSA, HyperWorks, META).
- Specialized expertise in interior plastic design guidelines, polymer behavior, and fastener joint integrity.
- Knowledge of Interior Safety/Occupant Protection standards (e.g., FMVSS 201/201U Upper Interior Head Impact, FMVSS 214, FMVSS 208/226).
Preferred / Nice to Have:
- Track record of leading interior hard trim programs from early architecture to physical test correlation.
- Experience with optimization tools (LS-OPT, OptiStruct) for structural lightweighting.
Pay DisclosureThe salary range for this role is $95,400 - $106,000 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.
Please note that we are currently not accepting applications from third party application services. 
