Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering, or MBA from an ABET-accredited institution.
Knowledge of automotive interior components, specifically complete interior seats.
Experience in developing performance standards and creating master sections for PDO.
Expertise in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) methodologies; Green or Black Belt preferred.
Proficiency in NX and Teamcenter software systems.
Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of automotive interior components/systems.
Conduct tooling feasibility assessments for injection-molded plastics and decorative components.
Collaborate with engineering, planning, and suppliers to meet project goals.
Utilize DFMEA and DVP&R in the development of impact assessments.
Manage multiple complex projects while ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.
Benefits
Opportunity for professional growth through leadership responsibilities.
Collaborative team environment that fosters communication and innovation.
Exposure to cross-functional teams and the latest automotive technologies.
Travel opportunities to collaborate with suppliers and industry leaders in North America.
Full Job Description
Job Summary:
The Seating Heat & Ventilation Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the end-to-end design, development, validation, and launch of heated and ventilated seat systems across Client vehicle programs.
This role owns the technical definition, release, and ongoing quality performance of the seat thermal comfort features, working closely with cross-functional teams and external suppliers to deliver best-in-class customer comfort, quality, and value.
Key Responsibilities:
Own the design and release of seat heating and ventilation components and systems (heatermats, blowers, plenums, foam interfaces, harnesses, etc.) from concept through production.
Develop and maintain component and system-level technical specifications, design documents, and engineering standards for heated and ventilated seating.
Lead packaging and integration of heat and ventilation systems into seat complete/structures and foam, ensuring compliance with ergonomics, safety, comfort, manufacturability, and serviceability requirements.
Create and maintain engineering documentation in Client systems (e.g., part numbers, BOMs, drawings, 3D dataetc).
Coordinate with suppliers on design proposals, DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, timing plans, and cost/feasibility studies; drive robust design solutions that meet Client performance targets.
Plan and execute validation activities for seat heat & ventilation systems, including thermal performance testing, durability, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
Analyze test data, identify root cause of issues, and drive corrective actions and design changes to closure.
Support vehicle builds (mules, pilots, PPAP, launch) by resolving fit, finish, function, and electrical/thermal performance issues in a timely manner.
Collaborate with Electrical, HVAC, HMI, Body, and Vehicle Integration teams to ensure seamless system operation, proper network communication (LIN/CAN), and robust control strategies.
Manage engineering changes (CNs/ECNs), cost reductions, and quality improvements for in-production programs.
Support functional safety, compliance, and regulatory requirements as applicable (thermal safety, occupant comfort and health, electrical safety, etc.).
Track and report program status, risks, and open issues to management and program teams; maintain clear and organized openissue lists.
Benchmark competitive seat comfort technologies and contribute to Client seating innovation roadmaps for thermal comfort and wellbeing.
Qualifications & Skills:
Demonstrated leadership skills, ability to work autonomously, excellent communication skills, positive attitude, willingness to learn, flexibility, team-player, and attention to detail.
Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university.
5+ years of engineering experience in the automotive industry.
Hands-on experience with heated/ventilated/cooled seat systems, including interaction with foam, trim, HVAC, Modules and seat structures.
Working knowledge of engineering fundamentals in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid flow, and/or HVAC integration.
Prior experience in a Design Release Engineer (DRE) or System Responsible Engineer role at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier
Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (CATIA, NX, or equivalent) for packaging and design review (detailed design experience is a plus).
Experience with standard engineering tools and processes: DFMEA, DVP&R, root cause analysis, design reviews, and problem-solving methodologies.
Experience with global project management and leading cross-functional teams.
