Sr Design and Release Engineer- Hard Trim & Overhead

Job DescriptionThis role is categorized as hybrid. The selected candidate will be expected to work on-site at the Warren Tech Center at least three days per week, or as otherwise determined by the hiring leader.This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features. Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale..About the role:The Sr Design Release Engineer (DRE) – Interior Hard Trim and Overhead Systems is responsible for the end-to-end development, integration, and release of interior hard trim and overhead components for vehicle programs. This role focuses on injection-molded plastic and compression-molded trim, headliners, and associated overhead components, ensuring robust design, high quality, and flawless launch execution. The Lead DRE will drive cross-functional alignment, mentor other engineers, and help define component, system, and program execution strategies.Key Responsibilities:Product & System OwnershipOwn design, development, and integration of interior hard trim and overhead components, including:Hard Trim: plastic injection-molded and compression-molded carpet parts.Overhead Systems: headliners and associated components (e.g., lamps, coat hooks, assist handles, speaker grilles).Develop and maintain component timing plans and deliverables across the vehicle lifecycle.Ensure design execution meets requirements for fit, finish, DFA, and DFM.Balance imperatives such as cost, investment, mass, and performance.Release all assigned components and approve validation plans and results.Cross-Functional Collaboration:Lead cross-functional product development activities with:Engineering partners: Engineering Design, Interior Restraints, adjacent Interior components, Body Systems, Electrical, HVAC, Cargo Management, and Overhead/Hard Trim component teams.Non-engineering partners: Creative Design, Purchasing, Ergonomics, Manufacturing, Value-Added Assemblers, Quality, and Suppliers.Resolve design, packaging, and ergonomic issues through data-driven trade-offs and structured problem solving.Technical Leadership & Mentorship:Act as the technical leader and subject-matter expert for interior hard trim and overhead systems on assigned programs.Mentor and support other DREs and engineers, sharing best practices and lessons learned.Contribute to the development of repeatable strategies, standards, and execution approaches for interior hard trim and overhead systems.Required Qualifications:Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Mechanical preferred) or U.S. equivalent.10+ years of experience designing and/or developing interior automotive trim components.5+ years of Design Release Engineer (DRE) experience developing and implementing technical solutions for interior trim systems and components.Strong knowledge of plastic materials, compression molding, and injection molding processes.Successful launch of at least one vehicle as an Interior Systems DRE or Application Engineer.Experience resolving ergonomic issues related to interior trim systems.Experience creating DFMEAs and cascading them into PFMEAs.Proficiency with GD&T to ensure compliance with interior trim fit and functional requirements.Experience creating 3D-printed parts to develop and evaluate proposed concepts.Preferred Qualifications:Engineering release experience specifically in hard trim components and/or overhead systems.Proficiency in Unigraphics/NX/Teamcenter Visualization (Vis Mockup), including:Assembly navigation, measurements, and sectioning.Creating study files.Creating STL files for 3D printing.Familiarity with structured problem-solving methods such as Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) and Red X.Sponsorship:GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP NOW OR IN THE FUTURE. THIS INCLUDES DIRECT COMPANY SPONSORSHIP, ENTRY OF GM AS THE IMMIGRATION EMPLOYER OF RECORD ON A GOVERNMENT FORM, AND ANY WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIRING A WRITTEN SUBMISSION OR OTHER IMMIGRATION SUPPORT FROM THE COMPANY (e.g., H-1B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)#LI-JN1 GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate. About GMOur vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.Why Join UsWe believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.Benefits OverviewFrom day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws. We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.AccommodationsGeneral Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at View phone number on click.appcast.io. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.SummaryLocation: Warren, Michigan, United States of AmericaType: Full time