Job Summary:

The Battery Pack Lead Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the design, development and execution of core battery mechanical system components and assemblies. The individual will be responsible for leading the sub-system DREs in defining, documenting, and designing battery pack, battery module, electrical systems, thermal management as well as taking ownership of specific mechanical and thermal components and assemblies while overseeing verification and validation of those components and assemblies. 

This role requires the ability to apply technical knowledge to innovative designs, driving resolution of challenges and take ownership of new product development activities. 

Responsibilities: 

• Apply technical knowledge to the on-time delivery of work products through the product development life cycle for each project.
• Drive the development of the battery pack subsystems and component via responsible subsystem DREs.
• Own the design and development of efficient designs for components & sub-assemblies not allocated to subsystem DREs.
• Ensure the proper mechanical and electrical interfaces between subsystems and DREs.
• Work in concert with manufacturing engineers in the development of processes and tools supporting manufacture and assembly.
• Component definition, sizing, selection, and design of battery module and pack mechanical and thermal components (e.g., battery structure, enclosures, injection molded plastics, cooling plates, mechanical joining methods).
• Work closely with Systems Engineers and CAE Engineers to prove out design concepts prior to battery pack prototype builds.
• Act as a mentor and advisor to DREs on the team.
• Key contributor to mechanical system DFMEAs/PFMEAs, DVP&Rs and product & process design reviews.
• Lead supplier evaluation and development for responsible commodities in collaboration with purchasing.
• Support prototype system builds by ensuring parts are on time and that issues are resolved in a timely manner.
• Adhere to federal and state regulations.
• Adhere to all company policies, processes, and procedures.
• Performs other duties as requested, directed, or assigned. 
• Predictable and reliable attendance.

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering or equivalent degree with relevant experience.
• Minimum five (5) years of design engineering experience in the automotive or mobility industry.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in high voltage (>350V) electrification product design or product development.
• Proficient in root cause analysis and resolution.
• Proficient in understanding CAE models, including deciphering boundary conditions, assumptions, and model limitations.
• Adept in data processing and statistical analysis.
• Effective communicator, capable of concisely presenting highly technical test data to internal and external customers, as well as effectively communicating with suppliers.
• Experienced with the design, handling, and manufacture of high-voltage lithium-ion battery systems.
• Educated on common automotive and industry standards.
• Familiar with the product design process.
• Japanese language skills a plus.
• Self-motivated problem solver; pays attention to the details.
• Challenges the status quo and strives for continuous improvement.
• Abides by safety standards and protocols.

Key Competencies: 

• Decision Making & Analysis: Makes sound decisions based upon a mixture of data-driven analysis, expertise, experience, and judgment; collects relevant information, seeks input from others, and identifies connections and/or root causes of problems.
• Takes Initiative: Exhibits strong drive for results and success; conveys a sense of urgency and drives issues to closure; persists despite obstacles and opposition.
• Continual Improvement: Displays a consistent orientation toward producing the highest quality products or services, while keeping a focus on sustainability. Constantly looking for incremental improvements in work processes and results.
• Delivers Results: Achievement oriented, feeling a sense of urgency to reach goals on time, if not before.
• Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Priorities Focused: Understands and actively supports the organization’s mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities.
• Assertiveness: Maintaining a position when you know you are right; standing up to others and expressing views without fear or for approval and without engaging in unnecessary aggression.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office equipment. 
• Ability to adjust focus, especially due to concentration on a computer screen. 
• May need to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and/or position the body to reach items on the floor/below knee level or reach overhead. 
• The person in this position needs to occasionally move about in industrial environments, and on uneven terrain. 
• Works in a temperature-controlled office environment, with occasional work in outdoor weather conditions, and in industrial environments.
• May be required to travel to and navigate a variety of sites to fully understand material needs.