The Design Release Engineer - Door and Trim Center Console will:
Interface with Vehicle Engineering, suppliers, Purchasing, Quality and Assembly Plants
Manage product performance to meet functional, cost, weight, and investment targets
Oversee product release and change management processes
Direct packaging in vehicle environment
Support AQP, PSO, product launch and ongoing maintenance of carryover product
Be responsible for design, design practices, lessons learned, DFMEAs, DVP&R, and oversee release of designated components
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or equivalent
Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive interiors, floor consoles, cockpit systems, or complex plastic assemblies
Familiarity with CAD tools - NX preferred, CATIA acceptable - for packaging, design reviews, and feasibility analysis
Demonstrated experience with quality tools (root cause analysis, KT, 5-Why, Red X)
Strong understanding of injection molding, DFM/A, materials, tolerances, GD&T, and craftsmanship fundamentals
Experience developing and executing DFMEA, DVP&R, APQP, and PPAP deliverables
Ability to travel regularly to plants and suppliers for root cause investigations and build support
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate in a cross-functional and global engineering environment
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with integrated electronics such as wireless chargers, docks, USB hubs, LED ambient lighting, and console-mounted controls
Knowledge of console-mounted HVAC interfaces, shifter systems, storage mechanisms, dampers, latches, magnets, and soft-open/soft-close features
Experience working with multi-material console systems (PP, PC/ABS, TPO skins, PU foam, rubber mats, decorative trims)
Exposure to NVH development, squeak & rattle standards, and vehicle-level validation
Hands-on experience supporting launch at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier
Experience leading cost reduction/value engineering initiatives