WHO WE ARE LOOKING FORSlate is looking for a dynamic, experienced Sr Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Cockpit to join our growing team. This role will be responsible for leading the design, development, and integration of phone holder, iPad holding mechanisms, and cockpit trim component systems integrated within the vehicle cockpit for Slate vehicles. This includes mechanical retention systems, adjustability features, durability performance, and user interaction (HMI) considerations to ensure robust performance across all operating conditions. The individual will be responsible for understanding the vehicle's technical specifications and performance targets. Utilizing the APQP process and supporting documentation, this position will ensure Slate's quality, performance, and regulatory objectives are achieved and sustained throughout the vehicle lifecycle.
WHAT YOU GET TO DO- Lead design, development, validation, and launch of phone/iPad holder/interior plastic trim systems including spring-loaded clamps, detent mechanisms, friction-based retention systems, and other injection-molded plastic trim systems
- Ensure proper packaging compatibility, interface alignment, and system-level functionality with the cockpit, console, etc.
- Define kinematics and usability (one-hand operation, ergonomic reach)
- Lead interface with adjacent systems (HVAC, body structures, soft trim, electrical, restraints)
- Work directly with adjacent systems teams to ensure phone/iPad holder integration meets vehicle functional objectives
- Define functional objectives to meet product performance and safety targets, ensuring products meet both functional performance and safety
- Conduct supplier and internal technical reviews to ensure packaging and design issues are addressed/resolved
- Work with affected teams to ensure accessories (removable trim covers, bins, glove box, finish panels, speaker systems, phone and iPad holders, and more) are properly accommodated by the cockpit system
- Ensure compatibility with interfacing systems and components, including attaching hardware and joint design
- Define and integrate critical characteristics (CC/SC) with adjacent systems
- Deliver products that meet quality and reliability requirements and arrive on time for program milestones, with all necessary PPAP documentation
- Lead Design and Component Integration reviews for each component/system at required milestones
- Ensure validation of mechanism systems, reviewing test loads, setups, reports, and results for both internal and external testing
- Support prototype builds, DV/PV, and launch readiness
WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred
- 10+ years of experience in automotive mechanism system engineering
- Application-specific experience in at least 3 of the following areas/components:
- Mechanical mechanisms (springs, hinges, detents)
- Interior FMVSS, IIHS, and other 3rd-party rating validation
- Plastic part design and injection molding
- Handheld device interface and user interaction (HMI) design
- Experience working within a PLM, releasing components, and processing engineering changes
- Functional experience with NHTSA/FMVSS, CARB, EPA, FCC, or other regulatory requirements
- Ability to lead teams and meetings through technical tradeoffs and optimized solutions with attention to detail
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals
- Highly adaptable and proactive, excelling in fast-paced start-up and new model launch environments
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
