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# Sr. Design Release Engineer, Drive Unit Differentials

- **Company:** Rivian
- **Location:** Plymouth, MI, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Component-Based Software Engineering, Failure Mode Effects Analysis, Rapid Prototyping Process, CATIA V5, Enovia, Teamcenter (Software)
- **Published:** August 9, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=af1e880263df9f65

## About the Role

* Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
 * Experience: 5+ years of hands-on experience in drivetrain, axle, or transmission engineering, with specific focus on differential design/release.
 * Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, NX) and PLM systems.
 * Deep knowledge of mechanical differential architectures:
 * Open Differentials (bevel/planetary gear sets)
 * Limited-Slip Differentials (clutch-pack, mechanical, eLSD)
 * Disconnect Systems (dog-clutches, electromechanical actuators, free-wheeling units)

Key Skills & Competencies

 * Strong understanding of differential interfaces, such has Halfshafts, Gears, Actuator/Electrical, etc.
 * Proficiency in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and stack-up analysis.
 * Experience running and interpreting DFMEA and DVP&R documentation.
 * Strong project management, communication, and vendor-management skills., * Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
 * Direct experience with BEV drag-reduction strategies (e.g., front-axle disconnect units for AWD BEVs).WE

## Description

* Author and manage Rivian Statement of Requirements (SOR) for Drive Unit Differential technologies, lead supplier compliance assessment to SOR thru sourcing; as well as Engineering Change Requests (ECRs), Bill of Materials (BOMs), and technical specifications within PLM software (e.g., Teamcenter, Enovia).
 * Work cross-functionally purchasing and technical program manager (TPM) members, lead/support supplier technical reviews, technical assessments, and compliance to SOR.
 * Use Pugh Matrix and document adherence to requirements, risk assessment, and technical recommendation. Work cross functionally with purchasing and technical program manager (TPM) members.
 * Manage the full product lifecycle from concept (CAD geometry) through Design Validation (DV), Process Validation (PV), launch, and continuous improvement.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Integration

 * For electro-mechanical systems, partner with Software & Controls teams to optimize disconnect actuators, and seamless front/rear axle disconnect strategies for maximum BEV efficiency. Lead collaboration for Rivian advanced technology exploration such as eLSD.
 * Collaborate with NVH & Efficiency teams to minimize gear whine, mesh friction, and drag losses inherent to high-RPM electric motors.
 * Work closely with Drive Unit Manufacturing & Assembly engineers to ensure Design for Manufacturability/Assembly (DFM/DFA).

Supplier & Technical Leadership

 * Direct tier-1 suppliers on component development, tooling timelines, cost targets, and quality deliverables.
 * Lead engineering risk assessments including DFMEA, DVP&R, and Boundary Diagrams.
 * Root-cause technical issues during prototype builds, dyno testing, track validation, and field operations using 8D / 5-Why methodologies.


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