Design Release Engineer
$150,000–$200,000 year
On-siteAuburn Hills, Michigan, United States
Job Summary
Own assigned parts or systems from initial design concept through full volume production, providing feasibility input for PDO concepts, sketches, and clay models. Develop functional objectives, build objectives, DVPR, and DFMEA for components, then release completed geometry using Teamcenter/NX CAD tools. Validate designs via CAE resources and physical testing at component, system, and vehicle levels, while managing internal documentation for release. Lead design efforts by leveraging external and internal CAD resources, oversee tool construction and assembly production, and provide on-site support for pilot builds and launch at the assembly plant. Resolve build or launch issues through root cause analysis and corrective action, analyze warranty data for cost reduction, and manage safety compliance reports. Manage BOM, cost, quality, and change management while collaborating with suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure manufacturing feasibility.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in engineering
- Automotive industry experience
- Design Release Engineer (DRE) experience
- Must be true release experience, not just design support
- Experience supporting product launches
- Plant or supplier launch exposure
- Experience with exterior automotive components
- Strong focus on plastic components such as fascias, grilles, cladding, trim/appliques
- Experience managing complex assemblies or multi-part systems
- Ability to clearly explain hands-on responsibilities and ownership of work
Desired Qualifications
- 3-8+ years of relevant experience
- Experience at an OEM (strongly preferred) or relevant Tier 1 supplier
- Experience with Class A or painted exterior surfaces
- Some interior experience with complex components
- Experience working cross-functionally
- Strong understanding of automotive release and development processes
Hiring someone like this?
Get your role in front of qualified candidates on Sorce.