Design Manager, Workplace

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Workplace

Company: Rivian

Location: Irvine, California, United States / El Segundo, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Workplace Design & Operations

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-level (4+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the architectural design and execution strategy for Rivian's physical workplace and R&D facilities, ensuring alignment with brand values and operational efficiency.

• Act as a subject matter expert in workplace facilities design, translating complex technical and user needs into functional, aesthetically representative spaces.

• Drive cross-functional collaboration with internal departments (Operations, Engineering, IT, Security) and external consultants to ensure seamless project delivery from concept to completion.

• Manage the full project lifecycle, including design development, pricing package creation, consultant coordination, construction oversight, and post-occupancy evaluations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within Rivian's Facilities Workplace Design team, focusing on the physical manifestation of the brand. The emphasis on "keeping the world adventurous forever" suggests a design philosophy that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and user experience, which will be critical for operations professionals to understand. The role requires a blend of architectural design expertise and practical operational management, making it a key function in ensuring Rivian's physical infrastructure supports its ambitious growth.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently develop and communicate design concepts through various mediums including sketches, markups, drafting, illustrations, and renderings.

• Lead design development discussions, defining project scope and collaborating with internal teams such as Operations, Construction Management, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), Engineering, Data/IT, and Security to integrate their technical and functional requirements.

• Produce detailed pricing packages or narratives that clearly define the final project scope for direct pricing to General Contractors (GCs) or as handover documents to consulting Architects, Engineers, Owners' Representatives (AEORs).

• Proactively coordinate and collaborate with external consultants including architects, engineers, furniture vendors, and fabricators to ensure design intent is met and technical specifications are accurate.

• Drive internal review processes at key documentation milestones and serve as the primary point of contact for end-user specific inquiries and feedback.

• Develop and implement solutions for design or construction issues identified in the field, working closely with consulting architects and engineers to resolve challenges efficiently.

• Lead the AEOR Request for Proposal (RFP) process in partnership with the Purchasing department and manage associated contract changes and invoice tracking.

• Conduct site visits with operations and end-users to meticulously evaluate existing conditions, capture necessary field data, including detailed photos and as-built drawings as required for design accuracy.

• Oversee project execution from a design perspective, acting as Rivian's primary design representative throughout the construction phase to ensure adherence to approved plans and specifications.

• Collaborate closely with the Workplace Development team on programming requirements and drive project approvals by presenting compelling justifications based on project urgency and standard payback analyses.

• Develop early-stage concept packages, including proposed floor plans, 3D modeling, and renderings, utilizing tools like Revit and Enscape to visualize design outcomes.

• Attend Equipment Supplier Coordination meetings, partnering with the Capital Expenditure (CapEx) team to establish clear responsibility expectations between Facilities Development and Vendor-Provided Equipment Integration Teams.

• Lead and collaborate with the internal Furniture team to ensure prototypical furniture is correctly specified, incorporated into drawing sets, procured, and delivered, working with the Construction team for coordinated installation.

• Assist in presentation efforts using tools such as Figma or Google Slides to effectively communicate design strategies and project updates to stakeholders.

• Develop post-occupancy reports to systematically gather feedback and data that will inform and shape future Workplace Design standards and best practices.

• Actively contribute to the office and team culture through participation in initiatives, strategy conversations, and fostering a collaborative environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to design management, requiring not only creative vision but also strong execution capabilities. The emphasis on internal and external coordination, technical integration (IT, EHS, Equipment), and vendor management indicates a need for robust process management skills. Operations professionals should note the emphasis on translating "Rivian workplace needs" into physical spaces, implying a deep understanding of how operational workflows and employee experience impact facility design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Accredited bachelor’s degree in Architecture. A Master’s degree and professional architectural license (e.g., RA/AIA) are preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 4+ years of progressive experience specifically in office and/or laboratory project design and construction administration.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to develop and communicate design ideas effectively through various visualization tools such as sketches, markups, drafting, illustrations, and renderings.

• Demonstrated experience in leading design development discussions and defining project scope in collaboration with diverse internal stakeholders.

• Proficiency in core design and documentation software: Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam Revu.

• Strong capabilities in presentation and visualization software, specifically Figma, for concept development and stakeholder communication.

• Mastery in developing and referencing construction documents for projects of varying scales.

• Possess an analytical, creative, and innovative mindset with exceptional problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple projects concurrently, with a high capacity for rapid focus shifts and adaptation to changing priorities.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication, negotiation, analytical, and critical thinking skills, essential for stakeholder management and problem resolution.

• Proven experience managing both small and large-scale programs and projects from inception to completion.

• Self-starter mentality, goal-oriented, highly motivated, and comfortable thriving in a fast-paced environment characterized by shifting priorities and continuous process improvements.

Preferred Skills:

• Master's degree in Architecture and professional licensure (RA/AIA).

• Experience with 3D modeling and rendering software beyond Revit, such as Enscape.

• Familiarity with Google Suite for collaborative documentation and project management.

• Experience in workplace strategy and programming development.

• Understanding of furniture specification, procurement, and installation coordination.

• Knowledge of environmental health and safety (EHS) considerations in facility design.

• Experience with Request for Proposal (RFP) processes for architectural and engineering services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical architectural skills and strong soft skills crucial for operations and project management. The preference for a Master's degree and license suggests a path towards senior or lead design roles. The requirement for proficiency in specific software like Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Figma, alongside Google Suite, is critical for candidates to highlight. The emphasis on managing multiple projects and adapting to change is a key operational competency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 distinct projects demonstrating a full design lifecycle, from initial concept sketches and programming to final construction documentation and post-occupancy insights.

• Include detailed examples of how you translated complex user requirements (e.g., R&D lab needs, specific operational workflows) into functional and efficient space plans.

• Provide visual evidence of your proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD, including complex floor plans, detailed sections, and elevations.

• Demonstrate your ability to create compelling 3D models and renderings (e.g., using Enscape or similar tools) that effectively communicate design intent and spatial quality.

• Highlight projects where you managed external consultants (architects, engineers, vendors) and successfully navigated the construction administration phase, including site visits and issue resolution.

• Include examples of how you collaborated with cross-functional teams (Operations, IT, EHS, etc.) to integrate their specific requirements into the design.

• Showcase your experience with furniture specification, procurement coordination, and integration into drawing sets.

Process Documentation:

• For each project in the portfolio, include a brief description of the design and development process, emphasizing key decision points and challenges overcome.

• Detail your approach to site investigation, including how you capture and document existing conditions.

• Explain your methodology for coordinating with AEORs and managing the RFP process.

• Provide examples of how you developed and presented concept packages, including floor plans, 3D models, and renderings.

• Showcase your process for developing and resolving issues found in the field during construction.

• Include any experience with developing post-occupancy reports and how this data influences future design standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a strong portfolio is paramount. It should not only display design talent but also robust project management and operational execution capabilities. Candidates should focus on projects that demonstrate their ability to manage complexity, integrate diverse technical requirements, and deliver functional, efficient spaces within defined project parameters. Highlighting collaboration and problem-solving within the portfolio will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: USD $98,500 - $123,100 annually for California-based applicants.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-term Disability Insurance, and Long-term Disability Insurance. Coverage is effective on the first day of employment for full-time employees.

• Retirement Savings: Opportunity to participate in Rivian’s 401(k) Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program, subject to eligibility requirements.

• Paid Time Off: Generous Paid Vacation and Paid Sick Leave.

• Performance Incentives: Potential eligibility for an annual performance bonus and equity awards.

• Employee Well-being: Benefits are offered to employees, their spouse or domestic partner, and children up to age 26.

Working Hours: Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week. The role involves hybrid work, requiring presence in Southern California with flexibility for site visits and meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The listed salary range is specific to California and should be considered a baseline. The total compensation package includes significant performance-based incentives (bonus, equity) and a robust benefits suite, which are crucial considerations for operations professionals evaluating long-term career value. The hybrid nature of the role necessitates strong self-management and communication skills to maintain productivity and collaboration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive (Electric Vehicles), Technology, Adventure Lifestyle. Rivian operates at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, software development, and consumer goods, creating a unique environment for innovation.

Company Size: Large, rapidly growing enterprise. As a major player in the EV market, Rivian's scale implies complex operational processes, significant investment in infrastructure, and a dynamic, often demanding, work environment.

Founded: 2009. Rivian's relatively recent founding means it is still establishing many of its long-term operational processes and cultural norms, offering opportunities for individuals to shape its future.

Team Structure:

• The Workplace Design team is part of the broader Facilities organization, likely comprising architects, interior designers, project managers, and facilities coordinators.

• This role requires close collaboration with internal departments such as Operations, Engineering, IT, Security, and Capital Expenditure (CapEx) teams, indicating a highly matrixed and cross-functional operational environment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: The emphasis on post-occupancy reports and "shaping future Workplace Design standards" points to a data-informed approach to facility planning and optimization.

• Agile Project Management: The need to coordinate multiple projects, shift focus rapidly, and adapt to changing priorities suggests an agile or iterative approach to project execution and workplace development.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Rivian’s operational model necessitates deep integration across departments to ensure facilities meet diverse functional, technical, and brand requirements.

Company Website: https://careers.rivian.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Rivian's culture is described as adventurous, curious, and innovative, emphasizing challenging the status quo. For operations professionals, this translates to an environment that values proactive problem-solving, adaptability, and a willingness to contribute to evolving processes. The company's mission to "keep the world adventurous forever" likely influences design choices towards sustainability, functionality, and a connection to the outdoors, even within corporate facilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Design Manager within the Facilities/Workplace Design function. It requires significant autonomy and the ability to lead projects from conception through completion, demonstrating a solid foundation in architectural design and project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a senior leader within the Workplace Development or Facilities organization (e.g., Director of Workplace Design, VP of Facilities). They will manage relationships with various internal stakeholders and external consultants, acting as a central point of coordination.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct operational impact by shaping the physical environments where Rivian employees work, innovate, and produce vehicles. Effective workplace design influences employee productivity, collaboration, safety, and the overall efficiency of R&D and corporate operations. By ensuring spaces are functional and representative of the brand, the Design Manager contributes to Rivian's operational excellence and employee experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into senior design management roles, overseeing larger programs, or leading specific facility types (e.g., R&D labs, manufacturing support spaces).

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as sustainable design, advanced lab design, or occupant experience strategies.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Exposure to various operational departments (Construction, IT, EHS, Operations) could lead to opportunities in broader facilities management, program management, or strategic operations roles within Rivian.

• Process Improvement: The company's growth phase offers significant opportunities to contribute to and refine operational processes for workplace design and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers substantial growth potential by enabling individuals to hone skills in both design leadership and operational project execution within a rapidly scaling company. The emphasis on "contributing to the office and team culture, initiatives, and strategy conversations" suggests opportunities for career development beyond pure design management, into strategic planning and operational improvement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement. This means employees are expected to work from Rivian's Southern California offices (Irvine, El Segundo) for a portion of their work week, with flexibility for remote work. The specific office locations provide access to key operational hubs.

Office Location(s): Irvine, California (14410 Myford Road) and El Segundo, California. These locations are strategic hubs for Rivian's operations, offering proximity to R&D, corporate functions, and potentially manufacturing support.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Rivian's emphasis on innovation and cross-functional collaboration suggests office environments will feature a mix of open-plan areas, private offices, meeting rooms, and potentially specialized collaboration zones designed to foster interaction and idea sharing.

• Technology Integration: As a tech-forward company, expect modern AV equipment, robust IT infrastructure, and potentially smart building technologies integrated into the workspace. The role involves coordinating IT and Data integration into facility designs.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model necessitates intentional efforts to foster team connection. Opportunities for interaction will occur during in-office days, project meetings, and through digital collaboration tools.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) with a hybrid model. While core hours will be expected, the nature of project management may require flexibility to meet deadlines, especially during critical construction phases or site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model requires strong self-discipline and proactive communication. Operations professionals in this role will need to master digital collaboration tools and ensure effective engagement with colleagues both remotely and in person. The physical workspace is designed to support Rivian's mission, likely incorporating elements of adventure, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or talent acquisition will likely conduct an initial review of applications, focusing on qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your experience, project management approach, technical skills (Revit, AutoCAD, Figma), and understanding of workplace design principles within an operational context. Be prepared to discuss how you handle cross-functional collaboration and problem-solving.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A critical stage where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Expect to walk through your design process, highlight challenges, explain solutions, and demonstrate your impact on operational efficiency and user experience. This may involve a case study presentation.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with key internal stakeholders (e.g., representatives from Operations, IT, EHS, Construction) to assess your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and understand diverse operational needs.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential within Rivian.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-4 projects that best showcase your experience in office/lab design, construction administration, and cross-functional collaboration. Prioritize projects demonstrating complex problem-solving and operational impact.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed, the key challenges, your solutions, and the measurable outcomes or impact (e.g., improved efficiency, cost savings, enhanced user experience).

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your use of Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Figma, and how these tools contributed to project success. Showcase detailed drawings and renderings.

• Demonstrate Operational Acumen: Emphasize how your designs addressed specific operational needs, safety requirements, IT integrations, and end-user feedback. Show how you managed consultants and construction phases.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handle conflict, manage budgets, and adapt to changing project requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be given a brief scenario related to a workplace design challenge (e.g., reconfiguring a lab space, optimizing an open office layout) and asked to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential solutions.

• Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to explain your standard process for managing a design project from inception to closeout, including stakeholder engagement and risk management.

• Problem-Solving Exercise: Expect questions that require you to think critically about hypothetical issues encountered during a project (e.g., budget overruns, unexpected site conditions, conflicting stakeholder demands) and how you would resolve them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes practical application and the ability to articulate one's contributions effectively, particularly through the portfolio. Operations candidates should focus on demonstrating how their design decisions translate into tangible operational benefits and how they manage complex projects and stakeholder relationships. The portfolio review is not just about design aesthetics but about demonstrating process, problem-solving, and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: Essential for BIM (Building Information Modeling), architectural design, documentation, and coordination. Proficiency is expected for developing floor plans, sections, elevations, and 3D models.

• Autodesk AutoCAD: Crucial for 2D drafting, site plans, and integration with other CAD systems.

• Bluebeam Revu: Widely used for PDF creation, markup, collaboration, and document management throughout the design and construction process, including managing RFIs and submittals.

• Figma: Key for concept development, user interface design (if applicable to certain workplace elements), and presentation creation, facilitating rapid iteration and stakeholder visualization.

• Enscape (or similar rendering software): For creating high-fidelity real-time renderings and immersive walkthroughs to visualize design concepts for stakeholders.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides): For general office productivity, collaborative document creation, data analysis, and presentation development.

• Internal Project Management Software: Rivian likely uses a project management platform (e.g., Asana, Jira, Monday.com) for task tracking, scheduling, and team collaboration. Specifics may vary.

• Post-Occupancy Data Tools: Potentially utilizing survey tools or data analysis platforms to gather and interpret feedback on space utilization and occupant satisfaction.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how facility data integrates with broader company systems (like a CAFM/IWMS - Computer-Aided Facility Management/Integrated Workplace Management System) could be beneficial for long-term strategic planning.

• Familiarity with procurement systems for managing RFPs and vendor contracts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Figma is non-negotiable. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience using these tools in detail, particularly how they leverage them for efficient design development, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration. Understanding how facility data supports operational decision-making is also a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Adventure & Curiosity: Embracing challenges, exploring new ideas, and pushing boundaries in design and operations. This means being open to innovative solutions and unconventional approaches to workplace challenges.

• Integrity & Transparency: Operating with honesty and openness in all dealings, especially when managing projects, budgets, and stakeholder expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively across diverse teams and disciplines to achieve common goals. This involves actively seeking input from others and valuing collective success.

• Customer Focus (Internal): Prioritizing the needs of internal stakeholders (employees, various departments) to create spaces that enhance productivity, well-being, and operational effectiveness.

• Efficiency & Impact: Driving for measurable results and optimizing processes to deliver high-quality outcomes within defined timelines and budgets.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where design professionals work closely with operations, engineering, IT, and EHS teams. This requires strong communication and negotiation skills to balance diverse needs.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that likely encourages constructive feedback loops, particularly through post-occupancy evaluations, to continuously improve workplace design standards and processes.

• Proactive Communication: Given the hybrid model and distributed teams, proactive and clear communication is essential for maintaining alignment and project momentum.

📝 Enhancement Note: Rivian's core values of adventure, curiosity, integrity, collaboration, and efficiency directly translate into expectations for its operations and design teams. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and collaboration style align with these values, emphasizing a proactive, results-oriented approach within a dynamic team structure.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Scaling: Managing design and construction projects for a rapidly growing company means dealing with evolving requirements, tight timelines, and the need to scale infrastructure quickly and efficiently.

• Balancing Needs: Integrating diverse functional and technical requirements from various departments (R&D labs, IT infrastructure, security systems, employee well-being) into cohesive and aesthetically pleasing spaces.

• Hybrid Work Model Complexity: Designing and managing spaces that effectively support both in-office collaboration and remote work, ensuring a consistent and productive experience for all employees.

• Vendor and Consultant Management: Overseeing external partners to ensure they meet Rivian's standards for quality, schedule, and budget, especially in a fast-paced environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Technology: Opportunity to work with cutting-edge building technologies, sustainable design practices, and advanced visualization tools.

• Operational Process Development: A chance to significantly influence and improve Rivian's processes for workplace design, development, and facility management as the company matures.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gaining deep insights into the operational needs of various departments, enhancing your understanding of the broader business ecosystem.

• Leadership Skill Building: Developing leadership capabilities through project management, stakeholder engagement, and contributing to strategic initiatives within the Facilities organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of a high-growth, innovative company. They offer significant opportunities for professionals to develop their skills in strategic planning, complex project management, and cross-functional leadership. The role is ideal for someone who thrives in dynamic environments and seeks to make a substantial impact on operational infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting requirements from multiple stakeholders on a design project. How did you prioritize and reach a resolution?" (Focus on negotiation, communication, and operational alignment).

• "Walk us through your process for developing construction documents on a complex office or lab project. What are the critical checkpoints?" (Highlight meticulousness, technical understanding, and process adherence).

• "How do you ensure that workplace designs support both collaboration and individual focus, especially within a hybrid work environment?" (Demonstrate understanding of modern workplace dynamics and user experience).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How does Rivian's mission to 'keep the world adventurous forever' influence your approach to designing corporate and R&D spaces?" (Connect design philosophy to company values and operational goals).

• "What do you see as the biggest operational challenges in designing and managing facilities for a rapidly growing automotive/tech company?" (Showcase strategic thinking and awareness of industry complexities).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the impact. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., space optimization percentage, timeline adherence, budget management).

• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality renderings, floor plans, and relevant site photos. Ensure any process diagrams or flowcharts are easy to understand.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss specific design decisions, material choices, and how you leveraged Revit, AutoCAD, and other tools to achieve design intent and operational efficiency.

• Focus on Collaboration: Explicitly mention how you worked with internal operations teams, IT, EHS, and external consultants, detailing your role in integrating their needs.

• Post-Occupancy Insights: If available, share how feedback from past projects informed subsequent designs or process improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of both architectural design principles and practical, operational project management. Candidates need to articulate how their design decisions contribute to Rivian's business objectives and operational efficiency. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase this blend of skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager, Workplace position:

• Submit your application through the Rivian Careers portal at https://careers.rivian.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects most relevant to office and R&D facility design, emphasizing your experience with construction administration and cross-functional collaboration. Include examples of your work with Revit, AutoCAD, and Figma.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 4+ years of experience in architectural design and construction administration for office/lab spaces. Use keywords from the job description, such as "Revit," "AutoCAD," "Figma," "construction documents," "stakeholder management," and "project execution." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and project management methodologies. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions and be ready to present your portfolio effectively, focusing on operational impact and collaboration.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Rivian's mission, values, and recent projects. Understand their commitment to sustainability and innovation, and consider how this influences workplace design and operational strategies.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.