Design Release Engineer (DRE)- Fascia / Bumper / Grille

The Design and Release Engineer- Fascia/Bumper/Grill will be responsible for developing components/systems from initial design concept through full volume 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 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.

This role if for a Design Release Engineer (DRE) at an automotive OEM. This is not a CAD designer role. The DRE will own the part/system and be accountable for cost, quality, and BOM, while working cross-functionally with Studio, suppliers, and internal engineering teams.

Responsibilities:

• Own assigned part/systems from design through launch
• Own and manage BOM, cost, quality, and change management
• Work with Studio/Product Design Office to ensure designs are feasible for manufacturing
• Work with suppliers to understand feasibility constraints and ensure best practices are incorporated
• Complete change management documentation (internal systems)
• Follow parts to the assembly plant and resolve any build or launch issues
• Act as a lead engineer, bringing cross-functional teams together to drive issues to resolution

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or 5+ years of relevant experience
• Automotive industry experience required
• Minimum 1+ year of experiencd
• Design Release Engineer (DRE) experience (not just design support)
• Experience supporting product launches
• Plant or supplier launch exposure required
• Experience with exterior automotive components
• Strong focus on plastic components such as:
• Fascias
• Grilles
• Cladding
• Trim/appliques
• Experience managing complex assemblies or multi-part systems
• Ability to clearly explain hands-on responsibilities and ownership of work

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3-8 years of relevant experience
• Experience at an OEM or relevant Tier 1 supplier
• Experience with Class A or painted exterior surfaces
• Some interior experience with complex components (secondary)
• Experience working cross-functionally with:
• Suppliers
• Manufacturing or plant teams
• Strong understanding of automotive release and development processes