Role SummaryThe Senior Material Planning Analyst takes a lead role in the material planning of complex, critical production builds. As a Senior Analyst, you are not only responsible for ensuring on-time delivery and optimal inventory levels but also for driving strategic supplier relationships, optimizing supply chain processes, and mentoring junior team members. This role requires advanced analytical capabilities to navigate quick product changeovers, resolve high-level escalations, and develop comprehensive risk mitigation strategies for our most critical commodities. You will serve as a subject matter expert on the Rivian supply chain, shaping processes that impact production, warehouse operations, and overall supply continuity. This position is based onsite in Normal, IL and reports to the Manager of Material Planning.
Responsibilities- Lead and maintain strategic supplier relationships, managing the most complex and critical supplier accounts to ensure supply continuity.
- Mentor and train junior Material Planning Analysts, sharing best practices in MRP logic, risk analysis, and supplier management.
- Drive accurate supply requirements via advanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) processes, taking ownership of system parameter optimization.
- Develop and implement strategic safety stock policies to maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing capital tie-up and obsolescence.
- Act as the primary escalation point for critical plant, warehouse, and logistics disruptions, leading cross-functional teams to resolve prolonged shortages.
- Spearhead backlog recovery initiatives through executive-level communication and negotiation with the supply base.
- Lead complex risk analyses and implement robust, long-term countermeasures rather than just temporary fixes.
- Formally document root cause and corrective actions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to prevent recurrence.
- Prepare executive-level reports and present supply chain status, risks, and strategies to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
- Lead the material strategy for complex engineering changes, timing transitions, and new product introductions to ensure supply availability and minimize obsolescence.
- Determine and negotiate bank build quantities during major tooling moves, resourcing efforts, and constrained supply situations.
- Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Purchasing, and Logistics leaders to establish and overhaul scalable department processes and procedures.
- Drive supplier performance reviews, facilitating aggressive improvement plans and countermeasures for underperforming vendors.
- Visit supplier locations and plants during major milestone events, conducting on-site audits and supporting teams when required.
Qualifications- Bachelor's of Science in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or other related fields highly preferred, accompanied by 5+ years of progressive material planning or supply chain experience (Master's degree is a plus).
- Advanced proficiency and hands-on experience with Materials Requirement Planning (MRP) Software; SAP experience is highly preferred.
- Deep understanding of MRP logic, demand plan creation, and inventory optimization strategies.
- Advanced technical skills in Excel (pivot tables, vlookups, macros) and proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Experience with data visualization tools (Tableau, PowerBI) is a strong plus.
- Proven ability to lead projects, influence cross-functional teams, and act as a leader/mentor without formal direct reports.
- Advanced problem-solving skills with a track record of identifying systemic issues and implementing scalable solutions.
- Ability to independently manage conflicting priorities, meet strict deadlines, and stay within budget in a highly dynamic environment.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to interpret and negotiate commercial and operational variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
- Ability to read, interpret, and write complex procedure manuals, safety rules, and supply chain documentation.
- Executive presence with the ability to speak and present effectively before groups of customers, suppliers, and senior organization leaders.
- Ability to apply concepts of algebra, geometry, and advanced statistical analysis to inventory and demand forecasting.
- Exceptional resilience and communication skills, with a proven ability to maintain clarity and drive results in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
Pay DisclosureSalary Range for Illinois Based Applicants: The salary range for this role is $89,900 - $112,400 for Illinois 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.
Benefits Summary: 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 until filled.
