Company FAQ

How to Get an Internship at Rivian

Are you looking for an internship at Rivian? Here are our best tips on how to showcase your skills and land your dream internship.

(Updated: ) - 7 min read
Leila Le
Written by
As an Operations Lead, Leila oversees Simplify's blog & newsletter, reaching 100K job-seekers monthly, where she brings experience curating resources for candidates to help them land their dream job.

Looking for an internship that is both challenging and rewarding? If so, then Rivian may be the perfect fit for you! As a company that is leading the charge in transforming the transportation industry with their innovative products and services, Rivian offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working alongside some of the most talented individuals in the field.

In this blog post, we will provide you with a guide on how to get an internship at Rivian and what you can expect when interning at this forward-thinking company. So buckle up and read on to learn more about how you can kick-start your career with an internship at Rivian Automotive!

Keep reading to discover how an internship at Rivian can provide you with invaluable experience and set you up for a successful career in the automotive industry!

Frequently Asked Questions About Rivian Internships

Rivian's internship program offers students and recent graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the rapidly growing field of electric vehicle development. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the company is committed to building a better future for all through their work in the automotive industry.

The internship program provides a variety of positions in areas such as engineering, design, marketing, operations, and more, allowing interns to gain valuable industry experience and develop skills that will help them in their future careers. Here's some more information about the internships:

  • Internship Length: 10-12 weeks.
  • Intern Salary: $25.00-51.00 per hour (depending on position)
  • Number of Interns: 50-100 (across various departments)
  • Office Locations: Irvine, CA; Palo Alto, CA; and Normal, IL. They also have branches in Canada, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
  • Application Cycle: The application cycle for Rivian internships typically opens in the fall of the previous year (around September/October) and closes in the winter (around December/January).

Curious about what it's like to be part of Rivian's team? Take a look at what the founder and CEO has to say about the company culture and mission:

Since our earliest days, Rivian has been a magnet for optimistic thinkers and doers who will stop at nothing to leave this planet better than we found it. It takes more than great ideas to make a difference. Bringing them to life — the right way — requires relentless curiosity and a whole lot of heart, not to mention difficult decisions, unexpected turns, redrawn plans and gnawed pencils. Every time we greet the unknown with open arms, what once seemed impossible becomes fun.

What Experience and Qualifications Do I Need?

The experience and qualifications required for Rivian internships can vary depending on the specific position and department you are applying for. However, there are some general qualifications that can increase your chances of being considered for an internship at Rivian. These may include:

  • Enrolled in an accredited college or university, or a recent graduate (within 6 months) of one
  • Pursuing a degree in a relevant field, such as engineering, design, marketing, business, or operations
  • Relevant coursework or experience in the specific area of the internship
  • Passion for sustainability and innovation

Keep in mind that certain internship positions may require specific technical skills or experience with certain software or tools. For example, for Rivian's software engineering internship, they were looking for candidates pursuing a degree in a relevant field. They also preferred candidates with experience in programming languages like C#, C++, and Python, knowledge in CAD/3D modeling, and a foundation in engineering fundamentals. So make sure to carefully review the job requirements before applying!

What does a Rivian internship involve?

While the exact details of a Rivian internship may vary depending on the specific position and department, in previous years, interns have had the opportunity to work on meaningful projects and gain valuable hands-on experience. For example, in the summer of 2020, Rivian's interns worked on a variety of projects, including:

  • Developing a system to monitor and optimize battery health and performance
  • Designing a test suite for Rivian's in-house software systems
  • Building a tool to analyze and visualize data from Rivian's vehicle test fleet
  • Creating a mobile app to help Rivian employees track their carbon footprint and make sustainable choices
  • Conducting market research and competitive analysis for Rivian's upcoming electric vehicles

Rivian interns have the chance to work alongside experienced professionals and contribute to important projects that align with the company's mission to create a more sustainable future.

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Looking for some great side project ideas? Read our blog post on some of the best project ideas to build up your resume as a software engineer!

When Do Applications Open?

In previous years, Rivian has typically posted internship positions on their careers page in the fall, around September or October. Applications were usually open for several weeks, with a deadline of around late October or early November.

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The specific dates may vary each year, so it's always a good idea to keep an eye on Rivian's career website for specific deadlines and dates!

Types of Internships at Rivian

Rivian has offered a variety of internship positions across different departments and areas of expertise. These have included internships in engineering, design, operations, finance, human resources, marketing, and more. Within each of these departments, Rivian has offered several different types of internships, ranging from summer internships to co-op positions and semester-long internships.

What benefits can I expect?

As an intern at Rivian, you can expect to receive a variety of benefits that will help you succeed both personally and professionally. Here are some of the benefits that Rivian offers to their interns:

  1. Hands-on experience: You'll have the opportunity to work on real projects and gain hands-on experience in your chosen field. This will help you build your skills and confidence and give you a taste of what it's like to work in the automotive industry.
  2. Mentorship: You'll be paired with a mentor who will guide you through your internship and offer you advice and support along the way. This will give you the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and make valuable connections in the industry.
  3. Networking opportunities: You'll have the chance to meet and network with other interns and professionals at Rivian, which can help you build your professional network and expand your career opportunities.
  4. Competitive pay: Rivian offers competitive pay for their interns, which means you'll be fairly compensated for your work.
  5. Potential for future employment: Many interns at Rivian are offered full-time positions after they complete their internship, so there is potential for you to turn your internship into a long-term career opportunity.

An internship at Rivian can provide you with a valuable experience and help you lay the foundation for a successful career in the automotive industry.

How Can I Apply?

Applying for an internship at Rivian is a straightforward process that starts with browsing the available internship positions on their careers website. As you explore the different options, you'll find positions in various departments and locations, allowing you to choose the internship that best matches your interests and goals.

Once you find a position that interests you, you'll submit your application online, which typically involves uploading a resume and cover letter. It's crucial to pay close attention to the job description and requirements to ensure you meet the qualifications for the position. Rivian may also require additional materials, such as a portfolio or writing samples, so make sure to carefully read the application instructions.

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What to Expect from the Interview

The interview process for a Rivian internship can vary depending on the department and position you're applying for. It can involve multiple rounds of interviews conducted over the phone, via video conference, or in-person.

During the interview, expect questions that assess your skills, experience, and qualifications for the position. Rivian may also ask behavioral questions that evaluate your problem-solving abilities, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Be prepared to provide examples of past experiences, both in academic and professional settings, that demonstrate your skills and suitability for the position.

Rivian may also conduct technical assessments to evaluate your technical skills and knowledge in the field. These assessments may include coding challenges or other technical exercises. Be ready to demonstrate your proficiency in the technical skills required for the position.

Preparing for Your Rivian Internship Interview

To prepare for the interview process, research Rivian and the position you're applying for thoroughly. This can help you understand the company's mission, values, and culture, as well as the specific requirements of the position. Review the job description and practice answers to potential questions to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

In addition to technical skills and qualifications, Rivian values individuals who align with the company culture and are passionate about their mission to create a more sustainable future. Expect questions that evaluate your interest in the company's mission, values, and culture. Showcase your passion for the opportunity and demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the company's mission and values.

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By being well-prepared, confident, and enthusiastic throughout the interview process, you can increase your chances of being offered an internship position at Rivian!

How to Secure a Return Offer

Securing a return offer from Rivian after completing an internship can be a great way to launch your career and continue to grow with the company. To increase your chances of being offered a full-time position, it's essential to demonstrate your value to the company during your internship. This can include taking on additional responsibilities, going above and beyond in your assigned tasks, and actively seeking feedback to improve your performance.

Make sure to communicate your interest in a full-time position with Rivian at the end of your internship. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow with the company, and articulate how your skills and experience can contribute to the company's mission and goals. Securing a return offer is not a guarantee, but by putting in the effort and showing your dedication, you can increase your chances of being invited back to work at Rivian!

Get Started With Simplify Today

Interning at Rivian presents a fantastic opportunity for aspiring professionals to immerse themselves in the dynamic and fast-paced world of electric vehicle development. By demonstrating your dedication to sustainability and innovation, as well as preparing thoroughly for the application and interview process, you can position yourself for success and take the first steps towards a promising career in this exciting industry.

Are you on the hunt for the ultimate internship that perfectly aligns with your skills, interests, and career goals? Look no further than Simplify! Our free autofilling extension makes the application process a breeze, giving you more time to connect with mentors and seize the unique opportunities available at Rivian. Ready to jumpstart your career? Take the first step with Simplify today!

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