> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1426840-sr-test-engineer-powertrain](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1426840-sr-test-engineer-powertrain). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Sr. Test Engineer, Powertrain - **Company:** Rivian - **Location:** Tustin, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Data Analysis, Data Systems, Software Debugging, Python (Programming Language), LabVIEW, MATLAB, Data Processing, Test Scripts - **Published:** July 24, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=f8023a8614e8b0be ## About the Role * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience. * 5+ years of relevant experience in test engineering for powertrain, drivetrain, propulsion, or similar complex electro-mechanical systems, including significant rig-based or lab-based testing. * Demonstrated track record operating at a Staff level (or equivalent) in: * Designing and executing complex test campaigns. * Leading resolution of difficult cross-system issues. * Influencing designs and requirements based on test insight. * Deep understanding of test methods, measurement systems, and data analysis for at least one of: * Durability / life testing * Thermal & environmental testing * NVH / vibration / shaker testing * Powertrain system performance and efficiency * Proven ability to lead without authority: align cross-functional stakeholders, challenge assumptions constructively, and drive decisions in ambiguous situations. * Strong communication skills, including clear technical writing (procedures, reports) and concise, executive-appropriate summaries for leadership. Preferred * Hands-on experience with testbed control and data systems (e.g., dyno controllers, HIL, PLCs, DAQ, automation frameworks, or similar). * Experience with NI Veristand/Labview or equivalent tools needed for developing test control/automation systems. * Familiarity with statistical methods and data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar) for test planning and results interpretation. * Experience mentoring and developing senior individual contributors and lead technicians. * Prior experience working across multiple sites or labs, harmonizing methods and standards. ## Description * Own the end-to-end test strategy for a significant domain (e.g., powertrain durability, system thermal, NVH, or rig-based validation), ensuring alignment with vehicle and subsystem requirements, program timelines, and safety constraints. * Translate high-level attributes and DVP targets into concrete test methods, profiles, and acceptance criteria that can be executed repeatedly across multiple test areas and sites. * Define and maintain standards, templates, and playbooks for test requests, procedures, instrumentation, data quality, and reporting, and drive their adoption across the test organization. * Identify gaps in current capabilities (rig hardware, control systems, measurement chains, data workflows) and lead roadmaps to close them through new rigs, upgrades, or process changes. Test System Design, Development & Ownership * Lead/Participate in capability expansion/improvement for test systems (e.g., multi-axis drivetrain rigs, shaker + thermal + humidity combinations, custom HIL or RTCS setups), working with controls, software, facilities, and safety. * Serve as the technical owner for selected high-value rigs or test areas, accountable for uptime, fidelity, and suitability to current and future test needs. * Develop and review automation and data-processing approaches (test scripts, health checks, dashboards, KPIs) to improve repeatability, coverage, and engineer productivity. Test Planning, Execution & Data Interpretation * Lead test planning for complex or first-of-a-kind campaigns, including sequence design, boundary conditions, instrumentation plans, and risk assessments. * Provide hands-on technical support for critical tests: bring-up, debug, fault triage, and correlation against models or vehicle-level behavior. * Review and synthesize test results at a system level, providing clear engineering conclusions, trade-offs, and recommendations to design, attributes, and program teams. * Champion data quality and traceability: ensure that test configurations, calibrations, and deviations are captured such that results can be trusted and reused for future analysis. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Influence * Act as the primary technical counterpart for your domain with Design Engineering, Attributes, Systems, DREs, Controls, Reliability, and Manufacturing/Service partners. * Drive cross-functional problem solving on high-impact issues (e.g., durability failures, correlation gaps, unexpected NVH or thermal behavior), ensuring robust root cause, containment, and validated corrective actions. * Provide executive-ready communication on test status, risks, and options: distill complex technical detail into concise, decision-oriented narratives for managers and senior leadership. People, Culture & Mentorship * Set the bar for how test engineering operates: structured problem definition, evidence-based decisions, disciplined change management, and continuous improvement. * Lead by example on safety and quality in the lab, ensuring test methods, rig operations, and work practices meet or exceed Rivian standards. * Contribute to capability building via training sessions, best-practice guides, reviews, and informal mentorship that raise the collective skill level of the test organization. ## Related Videos - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [From Messy Queries to Scalable Systems - How Data Engineering actually works](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100203-from-messy-queries-to-scalable-systems-how-data-engineering-actually-works) - [Software stack under and over the hood of the fastest accelerating car in the world](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/221-software-stack-under-and-over-the-hood-of-the-fastest-accelerating-car-in-the-world) - [How to develop an autonomous car end-to-end: Robotic Drive and the mobility revolution](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/22-how-to-develop-an-autonomous-car-end-to-end-robotic-drive-and-the-mobility-revolution) - [The Data Mesh as the end of the Datalake as we know it](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/156-the-data-mesh-as-the-end-of-the-datalake-as-we-know-it) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [The 8 Best Code Testing Tools](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/402-the-8-best-code-testing-tools) - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [Résumé-Driven Development: How IT trends affect the job market for software developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/59-resume-driven-development-how-it-trends-affect-the-job-market-for-software-developers) - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk)