Specialist, Engineer - Seats

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and trucks and will do so once again. But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work. The Scout brand is all about respect. Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation. Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers. Respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute. And respect for our customers by developing two powertrains that meet their requirements — an all-electric powertrain as well as the Harvester™ range extender powertrain which includes a built-in gas-powered generator with an estimated 500 miles of combined range. At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion. Join us at Scout Motors and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you're ready to drive change and make history, apply now! What you’ll do At Scout Motors, you don't just design vehicles- you shape the future of the road. Our Engineering team is where bold ideas meet rigorous execution, building machines that are as durable and capable as the people who drive them. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with brilliant minds across disciplines, turning complex challenges into elegant, scalable solutions that meet the highest standards of safety, performance, and user experience. This is a place where your fingerprints are found on metal – where what you design gets built, driven, and remembered. If you're hungry to engineer something that matters, Scout Motors is where that ambition finds its highest gear. Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following: Assume responsibility for the design release of interior seats components, assemblies and their integration into the vehicle. This includes system sourcing, packaging, drawing release, design validation, sub-system integration, ramp-up, and manufacturing support Collaborate closely with the design studio and other engineering teams to develop optimal packages for interior styling Work closely with the CAE team to provide design inputs and utilize CAE results to optimize the component design and performance Use CAD software to package components efficiently and robustly, optimizing for cost, weight, and commercial targets Apply program management skills to ensure suppliers meet timing, quality, cost, and validation deliverables, serving as the main point of contact for all supplier interfaces Ensure that failure avoidance tools and processes (DFMEA and PFMEA) are applied to all components/assemblies Develop and manage the validation plan and test labs ensuring all components and sub-systems meet necessary performance requirements and regulations Oversee supplier component DVP and control system level testing to ensure desired performance is achieved Analyze test results and identify necessary adjustments to the components/assemblies or interfacing components to achieve the most effective resolution Review and approve technical content of related changes throughout the development process Act as coach and mentor for the interior engineering group for design expertise and knowledge through educational training and hands-on instructions Must have an understanding to translate voice of the customer needs into engineering metrics Location & Travel Expectations: This role may be based out of the Scout Motors corporate headquarters in Charlotte, NC or Novi, Michigan. This role requires 4-5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events. Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time. What you’ll bring We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring: Education/Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or similar engineering degree from an ABET accredited university. Minimum 5 years of experience in automotive seating development, including design release, launch, and production support Strong background in product design, engineering analysis, and development Product Development & Program Execution Lead the development and release of complete seat systems and components across all phases of vehicle programs Own and manage program deliverables including timing plans, engineering documentation, and bill of materials (BOM) Track and drive achievement of mass, cost, quality, and timing targets Support vehicle launches and ongoing production, including issue resolution and continuous improvement Engineering & Technical Leadership Apply strong design, analysis, and validation practices to deliver robust seating systems Lead development and execution of DVP&R and ensure compliance with design requirements Utilize DFMEA/PFMEA and Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) methodologies to drive proactive quality Support and guide engineering decisions related to materials, manufacturing processes, and system design Recognize innovation and protect Scout intellectual property through patents, trade secrets, and defensive publications as needed Systems Integration & Cross Functional Leadership Lead integration of seating systems into overall vehicle architecture Define and manage system interfaces, working cross-functionally with vehicle engineering, safety, electrical, manufacturing, and suppliers Collaborate closely with studio and design to translate styling intent into feasible engineering solutions Support benchmarking activities and incorporate competitive insights into design strategies Manufacturing & Process Alignment Ensure design solutions are aligned with manufacturing feasibility and process capability Support development and validation of manufacturing processes including: Metal forming (stamping, bending) Polymer processes (injection molding, thermoforming) Foam manufacturing Joining processes (welding, bonding, fastening) Quality, Validation & Compliance Ensure compliance with global regulatory requirements including FMVSS, CMVSS, and ECE Lead root cause analysis and issue resolution using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., Shainin Red X, Kepner-Tregoe) Support part capability studies and statistical analysis to ensure robust production performance Technical Expertise Proficiency in CATIA V5/V6, Teamcenter, and Teamcenter Visualization Mockup Strong working knowledge of: DFMEA/PFMEA, DVP&R, GD&T, APQP, and automotive development processes Part capability studies, statistical analysis, and FEA Knowledge of automotive electrical and electronic systems as applied to seating Understanding of materials (metals, polymers, textiles) and their application in seating systems Experience with seat structures, mechanisms (manual and power), and system-level design Leadership & Competencies Experience working with global vehicle programs Proven ability to lead cross functional teams and drive program execution Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills Results oriented, self-motivated, and capable of operating in a fast-paced environment Hands on approach with a strong sense of ownership and accountability Lead special projects, assignments, and initiatives as required Exhibit the “Scout Way” values in everything you do Preferred Qualifications: Master of Science in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent) from an ABET (EAC) accredited university or a Master's degree in Business Administration Green, Black, and/or Master Black Belt certification(s) a plus Familiarity with Scout Motors business systems / procedures What you'll gain The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up. This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation. In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights: Competitive insurance including: Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans 401(k) program with: An employer match and immediate vesting Generous Paid Time Off including: 20 days planned PTO, as accrued 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave Pay Transparency This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent. Initial base salary range = $110,000.00 - $135,000.00 Internal leveling code: IC9 Notice to applicants: To be considered for career opportunities at Scout Motors, applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City. Equal Opportunity Scout Motors is committed to employing a diverse workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by law. Scout Motors is committed to compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io.