I applied online for a manager position and was also referred by several employees. During the initial screening, the recruiter asked why I chose that particular position over the engineering role within the same team. I explained that I met or exceeded all the requirements listed in the job description for the manager role, so I decided to apply for it.
The recruiter then informed me that the manager position might no longer be available, as an internal candidate might be promoted into the role shortly. He suggested my role would be more of a lead position, but the hiring manager would have more details.
During the interview with the hiring manager, I inquired about the situation when given the opportunity to ask questions. The hiring manager explained that I would start as an individual contributor because he does not place external hires directly into manager positions. He prefers to identify the best internal candidate for the role and then promote that person.
While I understand the reasoning, it raises the question of why the manager position was posted at all. This appears to be a bait-and-switch tactic, and I am apparently not the only one who has had this experience (see review from late March this year).
Standard questions to test my technical background and knowledge, nothing out of the ordinary.
The following metrics were computed from 7 interview experiences for the Rivian Engineering Manager role in United States.
Rivian's interview process for their Engineering Manager roles in the United States is extremely selective, failing the vast majority of engineers.
Candidates reported having negative feelings for Rivian's Engineering Manager interview process in United States.