About the role#
As a Powertrain Test Engineering Intern, you will support the validation of electric powertrain systems in a laboratory environment. This role provides practical experience with test setup, instrumentation, data collection, and engineering analysis. You will work alongside experienced test engineers to prepare for testing future 900 V platforms and contribute to ongoing laboratory improvements.
What you'll do#
- Support engineers with vehicle, system, and component-level powertrain testing.
- Help prepare test setups, instrumentation, and data-acquisition equipment.
- Support the development or improvement of test scripts and data-processing tools.
- Assist with the design and setup of laboratory upgrade projects.
- Lead and complete a defined continuous-improvement project.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a bachelors, masters, or PhD degree at an accredited university in Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, Controls, or a related engineering field.
- Basic understanding of engineering fundamentals and data analysis.
- Interest in electric vehicles, powertrains, testing, or validation.
- Basic programming or scripting experience, such as Python or MATLAB.
- Prior hands-on experience through a class project, student team, or laboratory.
Location & details#
- Location: Tustin, California, United States.
- Term: Winter 2027 (January to August).
- Modality: On-site, full-time (40 hours per week).
- Compensation: Paid internship.
About Rivian
Rivian operates as a public motor vehicle manufacturing company. Founded in 2009, the firm maintains its headquarters in Irvine, California. It employs over 10,001 people. The company focuses on hardware, autonomous driving, product design, automotive engineering, and software.
How to get in at Rivian
Securing an internship at Rivian requires speed, as early applicants often gain visibility before the candidate pool becomes crowded. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, ensuring you apply among the first. This timing helps you stay ahead of the typical application surge. You can also reach out to the recruiters behind these roles to ask about the position or a potential referral. Intern Insider surfaces these specific contacts, which often improves your response rates compared to submitting through a general portal.
