Vehicle Operator II, Autonomy Systems Validation (1st Shift)

Vehicle Operator IIRivian 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.The Vehicle Operator II plays a vital operational, hands-on, and instructional role in the testing, safety validation, and ground support of Autonomy Systems Validation. Reporting directly to the Operations Coordinator, this role bridges the gap between field-testing drivers and ground logistics/facilities. In addition to serving as a senior driver operating prototype vehicles across public roads and private test tracks, you will act as on-shift floor lead and driver trainer/coach. You will oversee vehicle prep, ground support, data offloading, pre/post-trip operations, and shift handovers, while actively onboarding, training, and coaching vehicle operators to maintain top-tier safety and testing execution.ResponsibilitiesOperator Training, Coaching & MentorshipTesting OperationsGround Support & Fleet OperationsSystem Diagnostics & Technical EscalationQualifications2+ years of professional automotive driving, autonomous vehicle testing, or vehicle fleet operations, with demonstrated informal or formal experience coaching, mentoring, or training peers.Excellent interpersonal, coaching, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to deliver constructive feedback and explain complex technical concepts simply.Proven ability to maintain high focus while driving or monitoring autonomous systems (solo or with a partner) for 68 hours per day in a fast-paced environment.Ability to lift, maneuver, and move up to 50 lbs and remain active across shop floors, proving grounds, or field testing sites.Willingness to travel up to 20% for off-site field testing campaigns and flexibility to work overtime, non-standard shifts, or weekends as testing schedules require.Proficiency with laptops, smartphones, and enterprise collaboration tools (Google Docs, Sheets, Maps).Pay DisclosureThe hourly pay range for this role is $31.08 - $34.53/hour for Chicago, IL based applicants. 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, 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.Equal OpportunityRivian is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information or characteristics, physical or mental disability, marital/domestic partner status, age, military/veteran status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by law. Rivian is committed to ensuring that our hiring process is accessible for persons with disabilities.