Position SummaryThe Launch Specialized Support Engineer serves as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting manufacturing launch activities, with deep expertise in AVI, QAS, Broadcast, and PFS applications. This role is accountable for launch-specific system design ownership, early issue detection, and rapid stabilization of production-critical applications during new vehicle, powertrain, and major system launches.
The position provides hands-on technical leadership across launch phases, acting as the primary technical authority for these applications while leading structured troubleshooting and Root Cause Analysis (RCA) efforts for launch-related issues. The Launch Specialized Support Engineer works closely with Vehicle Program Engineering (VPE), ICT (Plant and Corporate) teams, and Local Plant Production and Maintenance organizations to ensure systems are production-ready, resilient, and well understood by all stakeholders.
This role reports into a Launch Specialized Support Lead and requires strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to translate complex technical topics into clear, actionable guidance for non-technical audiences. Travel is required to support on-site launch activities.
Key ResponsibilitiesLaunch Systems Ownership & Design- Serve as the technical SME for AVI, QAS, Broadcast, and PFS systems during launch activities.
- Act as the design authority for launch-related system configurations, integrations, and process alignment.
- Partner with VPE, Manufacturing Engineering, and Plant Operations to ensure system designs align with launch build requirements.
- Validate system readiness prior to launch milestones, identifying risks and gaps early.
Launch Support, Troubleshooting & RCA- Lead hands-on troubleshooting for launch-related issues affecting production, quality, or throughput.
- Own and drive structured Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for critical launch incidents.
- Coordinate cross-functional problem-solving with ICT, operations, suppliers, and engineering teams.
- Ensure launch lessons learned are captured and integrated into future designs and standards.
Cross-Functional Communication & Coordination- Serve as the primary technical interface with VPE, ICT Launch, ICT Plant Operations, and Local Plant teams.
- Translate complex system behavior, risks, and recovery plans into clear messaging for non-technical stakeholders.
- Provide clear status, risk, and issue updates during launch war rooms and leadership reviews.
Governance & Continuous Improvement- Support standardization of launch system designs and support models across plants.
- Contribute to launch readiness criteria and support playbooks.
- Identify opportunities to improve diagnostics, monitoring, and supportability.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing Systems, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum 5 years experience SME-level hands-on experience with AVI, QAS, Broadcast, and/or PFS systems.
- Experience supporting manufacturing launches or production ramp-ups.
- Strong problem-solving skills with demonstrated RCA leadership.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex topics to non-technical audiences.
