Mechanical Joining Product Specialist

Short DescriptionAs a Mechanical Joining Product Specialist, you will be responsible for evaluating, developing, and optimizing joining solutions across a variety of materials and applications. You will combine your knowledge of metallurgy and joint performance with hands-on experience working with joining equipment to drive innovative and reliable solutions. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on advanced joining technologies in both R&D and real-world manufacturing environments while collaborating with cross-functional teams and global partners. This position reports to the Product Portfolio Manager.Your day-to-dayEvaluate, select, and implement mechanical joining technologies such as clinching, self-pierce riveting (SPR), and flow-drill fastening (FDS/FDF)Analyze material behavior and joint performance, including stress–strain relationships, loading conditions, and failure modesConduct and support testing and validation to ensure joint strength, durability, and performanceInterpret process data and equipment outputs to identify issues and drive continuous improvementOperate and troubleshoot joining equipment in lab and manufacturing environmentsSupport integration of joining solutions with automation systems, including robots, PLCs, and vision systemsCollaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and cross-functional engineering teams to drive improvements to current productsProvide technical guidance on process development, equipment selection, and production readinessAssist Marketing with technical expertise to create high-quality promotional materialsStay current on emerging technologies, materials, and trends within the joining industryLead launch activities in North America for new mechanical joining products and featuresYour skills and experienceBachelor’s degree in marketing, engineering, business, or a related fieldStrong understanding of mechanical joining processes and metallurgy fundamentalsAbility to evaluate joining methods and recommend optimal solutions based on performance, cost, and manufacturabilityExperience analyzing stress–strain data and understanding material behavior under various loading conditionsHands-on experience with testing, validation, and failure analysis of jointsFamiliarity with materials such as steel, aluminum sheet, and cast aluminumExperience operating and troubleshooting industrial or lab-based joining equipmentWorking knowledge of automation systems (servo motors, pneumatics, sensors, safety circuits)Ability to interpret process data and translate findings into actionable improvementsStrong collaboration and communication skillsExpertise in one or more joining technologies (SPR, FDS/FDF, clinching)Familiarity with automation integration (robots, PLCs, vision systems)Cross-functional expertise across mechanical, electrical, and controls engineeringBonus qualifications for candidates to have:Experience with polymers, composites, or structural adhesivesBackground in R&D, product development, or equipment developmentKnowledge of welding or thermal joining processes (e.g., friction welding)We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every single requirement. We value diverse experiences and perspectives and are excited to see what you bring to the role.Your locationThis role requires you to work on-site at our office in Auburn Hills, Michigan office. You will be part of a dynamic team and enjoy the benefits of face-to-face collaboration.Why it is great to work with usYour career grows through your skills, your curiosity, and the people you work with. You join a global network where we learn from each other and share knowledge openly. We focus on long‑term development and encourage you to explore new ideas that help us move forward. Innovation is part of how we think and act – we test, improve, and use what we learn to create solutions that matter. You can make a meaningful impact by contributing with your insights and taking ownership of your work, supported by flexible ways of working and leaders who empower you.Uniting curious mindsBehind every innovative solution, there are people working together to transform the future. With careers sparked by initiative and lifelong learning, we unite curious minds, and you could be one of them.