Design and Release Engineer - Exterior Plastics

The Design and Release Engineer will be responsible for developing components/systems from initial design concept through full volume production until the vehicle goes out of production. The Design and Release Engineer will provide feasibility input for development of designs from Product Design Office (PDO) concepts, sketch, and clay models. Establish and manage development timeline for life of project. Develop functional objectives, build objectives, DVPR, and DFMEA for components. The Engineer will lead design while leveraging external design source and/or internal CAD design resource. The Engineer will be responsible for the release of completed component geometry using Teamcenter/NX CAD tools. Validate virtual designs using CAE resources and perform physical validation via component, system, and vehicle level testing. Manage internal documentation for release of systems. Plan and oversee tool construction and production of assemblies. On-site support for vehicle pilot builds and production launch at assembly plant. Responsible for root cause analysis and determination of corrective action for issues with assembly, fit/finish, and functional performance. Analyze and remediate warranty, identify cost reduction opportunities on production of systems, candidate will also be responsible for safety compliance report documents.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in automotive system development or related area.
• Experience with Class A surfaced and customer viewable parts
• Understanding of thermal expansion, body tolerances, and design for assembly.
• Ability to navigate in CAD software (Teamcenter, NX, Vis Pro) and use PLM systems.
• Knowledge of global automotive standards and performance requirements.
• Strong knowledge of engineering materials and processes (complex injection molding, simple extrusion, simple stamping).
• Strong knowledge of exterior finishes (MIC, grains, paint, film, chrome, foil, etc.)
• Familiarity with GD&T, DFMEA, DVP&R, tolerance stack up, and typical automotive validation testing.
• Excellent problem-solving and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated individual.
• Demonstrated passion to work in the automotive industry.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in engineering or related technical field.
• Experience working directly with OEM or Tier 1 suppliers.
• Experience with problem solving such as Red-X
• Experience with robust design such as DFSS
• Hands-on experience with vehicle builds and plant launch activities.
• Experience with FCA release systems.
• Demonstrated automotive interest (via hobbies or college project)