Sr. Additive Specialist

About Rivian Rivian is on a mission to keep the world adventurous forever. This goes for the emissions-free Electric Adventure Vehicles we build, and the curious, courageous souls we seek to attract. As a company, we constantly challenge what’s possible, never simply accepting what has always been done. We reframe old problems, seek new solutions and operate comfortably in areas that are unknown. Our backgrounds are diverse, but our team shares a love of the outdoors and a desire to protect it for future generations.

Summary The Sr. Additive Specialist will be responsible for operating, programming, and optimizing additive manufacturing equipment and post-processing workflows in a fast-paced prototype manufacturing environment. Working semi-independently, this role requires near full understanding of machine operations, slicing software, and material processing to consistently deliver high-quality parts. The ideal candidate demonstrates solid judgment in print optimization, proactively identifies shop inefficiencies, performs basic machine troubleshooting, and helps guide requests across the locality.

Build Programming & Optimization: Program, optimize, and schedule build layouts using GrabCad and PreForm slicing software to ensure maximum part quality, density, and throughput across multiple 3D printing technologies (e.g., SLS, FDM, SLA). Machine Operations & Troubleshooting: Maintain readiness of designated 3D printing equipment and shop areas. Perform setup, machine operation, and basic hardware troubleshooting to resolve routine issues. Post-Processing & Finishing: Perform and oversee post-processing operations (cleaning, sanding, deburring, bonding, surface finishing, and assembly) to ensure finished parts meet strict engineering and design specifications. Continuous Improvement: Experiment with build setups and materials to improve process consistency and identify operational inefficiencies within the lab. Collaboration: Maintain full communication with the immediate team and greater national department. Lab Maintenance & Logistics: Adhere to 5S and safety protocols, manage raw material inventory, and support incoming/outgoing part shipping logistics.

Experience: 2–4 years of hands-on experience in a technical additive manufacturing, prototype lab, or R&D environment. Technical Aptitude: Demonstrated near-full understanding of machine operations, slicing/build preparation software, and material properties across key 3D printing technologies. Autonomy & Judgment: Proven ability to handle moderately complex assignments, exercise sound technical judgment, and work semi-independently with minimal supervision.

High school diploma or GED required; Technical certification or Associate degree in a related technical discipline is preferred. Software & Tools: Hands-on proficiency with Stratasys and FormLabs machines. Soft Skills: Open to constructive feedback, strong peer-to-peer and departmental communication skills, and a strong work ethic.

Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs. Pay Disclosure The Hourly Pay Range for this role is $33.94 - $37.71 for Michigan 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,