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Design Release Engineer
Warren, MI
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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:

  • Interior CAD & Product Definition: NX experience, 3D/2D modeling, and component interface design for interior systems (hard trim, overhead, pillars)
  • Release & Change Control: Experience with TKO/eBOM, part and drawing release, effectivity, and configuration management through GVDP
  • 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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