Job Title: Design Release Engineer – Interior Hard Trim & Overhead Systems
Position Summary:
We are seeking a Design Release Engineer (DRE) to support the development and integration of interior hard trim and overhead systems for next-generation vehicle programs. This role is responsible for driving component design, release, and validation activities across the full product lifecycle. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment and takes ownership of delivering high-quality interior systems from concept through production.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead design and release of interior hard trim and overhead system components
- Define engineering requirements, support design execution, and ensure validation of components
- Manage part and drawing release, change control, and configuration throughout the development lifecycle
- Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, quality, purchasing, and suppliers
- Interface with internal teams including Body, Electrical, HVAC, Interior Systems, and Cargo Management
- Partner with Creative Design to align engineering solutions with studio intent
- Support manufacturing feasibility, build events, and issue resolution
- Identify, track, and resolve fit, finish, and ergonomic concerns
- Ensure alignment to cost, mass, timing, and quality targets
- Drive continuous improvement through lessons learned and structured problem solving
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- 3+ years of experience in design and development of interior components (injection molded and/or compression molded)
- Experience balancing engineering and business constraints (cost, mass, complexity, timing)
- Strong collaboration skills with cross-functional and cross-cultural teams
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment
Top 3 Required Hard Skills:
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Interior CAD & Product Definition: NX experience, 3D/2D modeling, and component interface design for interior systems (hard trim, overhead, pillars)
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Release & Change Control: Experience with TKO/eBOM, part and drawing release, effectivity, and configuration management through GVDP
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Dimensional Engineering & Problem Solving: GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, manufacturing feasibility, and structured resolution of fit, finish, and ergonomic issues
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience as a Design Release Engineer (DRE)
- Experience with DFMEA and PFMEA
- Familiarity with structured problem-solving methodologies (DFSS, Red-X)
- Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher preferred)
What Success Looks Like in This Role:
- Proactively identifies and resolves issues early in the development cycle
- Applies systems-level thinking across ergonomics, safety, packaging, and design intent
- Maintains strong attention to detail across both product and process
- Takes ownership of deliverables and drives results across multiple stakeholders
- Communicates effectively and remains solution-focused under pressure
- Continuously learns from builds and shares insights with the broader team
Why This Role:
- Opportunity to work on next-generation vehicle interior systems
- High-visibility role with cross-functional exposure
- Hands-on involvement across the full product lifecycle
- Collaborative, fast-paced engineering environment
EOE (including Disability/Veterans)
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