Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
3-5+ years in automotive design release engineering or quality
Strong knowledge of automotive interior trim components
Proficiency in CAD tools, especially Siemens NX
Understanding of GD&T and tolerance analysis
Skilled in interpreting and creating technical documentation
Strong problem-solving and communication skills
Responsibilities
Design, release, and validate interior trim components
Lead resolution of fit, finish, and assembly issues
Conduct root cause analysis to identify design flaws
Interface with manufacturing and quality teams to solve problems
Direct dimensional inspection and variation analysis
Create and release 3D models and engineering changes
Manage engineering and quality issue tracking
Benefits
Opportunities for professional development
Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
Involvement in high-impact vehicle build events
Access to advanced CAD and engineering tools
Comprehensive support for quality initiatives
Full Job Description
Job Description:
Own the design, release, and validation of interior hard-trim components, including A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar, headliner, instrument panel, door trim, and related trim systems.
Lead investigation and resolution of fit, finish, gap, flush, squeak/rattle, and assembly issues identified during vehicle builds, production, and warranty.
Drive root cause analysis using dimensional measurements, tolerance stack-up studies, force testing, BOB/WOW studies, and structured problem-solving methods.
Serve as the engineering owner interfacing with manufacturing, quality, suppliers, and metrology teams to resolve interior trim concerns and drive design decisions.
Direct dimensional inspection and variation analysis using scanning, checking fixtures, SPC data, and tolerance analysis; approve corrective actions based on findings.
Design and release trim interfaces, clips, snaps, fasteners, and attachment features to optimize fit, assembly, and perceived quality.
Create, own, and release 3D models, drawings, and engineering changes using Siemens NX or similar CAD tools.
Define requirements for and approve checking fixtures and inspection aids for interior trim components; support their deployment during production containment.
Lead participation in vehicle builds and validation events to evaluate interior trim fitment, appearance, assembly, and functionality, with authority to direct design updates.
Own supplier and plant investigations, including containment activities, quality alerts, work instructions, and corrective action plans.
Manage engineering and quality issue tracking through systems such as Global Issue Management (GIM), ensuring timely resolution and closure.
Analyze SPC and dimensional data using tools such as Minitab; lead tolerance/variation studies and drive design responses.
Represent hard trim interior systems in design reviews, build events, and cross-functional meetings; present findings and drive issues to closure.
Author and release engineering changes, drawing updates, and corrective actions from initial investigation through final validation and sign-off.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
3-5+ years of experience in automotive design release engineering, interior trim, vehicle assembly, manufacturing, or quality (adjust based on level).
Strong working knowledge of automotive interior hard trim components and vehicle assembly processes.
Proficiency with CAD tools, preferably Siemens NX, including model/drawing release authority.
Strong understanding of GD&T, dimensional variation, tolerance stack-up, and root cause analysis methodologies.
Demonstrated ability to interpret and author engineering drawings and technical documentation.
Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and cross-functional communication skills.
Ability to work in a vehicle plant, assembly environment, or test/build facility as required.
Preferred Qualifications:
Direct design release experience with A/B/C-pillar trim, headliners, door trim, instrument panels, or other interior hard trim.
Experience with 3D scanning, checking fixtures, SPC, Minitab, 3DCS, or Monte Carlo tolerance analysis.
Automotive OEM or Tier 1 supplier experience in a design release capacity.
Proficiency with Teamcenter or other PLM systems, including change/release workflows.
Experience leading vehicle build, launch, quality, or warranty investigations from an engineering ownership perspective.
