Design Release Engineer

HireTalent

Auburn Hills, MI

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Automotive Industry, Bill of Materials (BOM), CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), Change Management, Communication Skills, Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Construction, Corrective Action, Cost Control, Cross-Functional, Data Analysis, Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA), Document Change Management, Documentation, Engineering, Follow Through, Geometry, Machine Tool, Maintain Compliance, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Assembly, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), On Site Support, Painting (Facilities and Maintenance), Problem Solving Skills, Product Design, Product Reviews, Product/Service Launch, Production Volume, Project Lifecycle, Release Management/Engineering, Root Cause Analysis, Safety Compliance, System Test, Teamcenter, Technical/Engineering Design, Time Management
LOCATION
Auburn Hills, MI
POSTED
16 days ago

Overview

A leading automotive organization is seeking a Design Release Engineer (DRE) to own and deliver exterior systems from initial concept through full volume production. This role is not a CAD designer position the DRE is accountable for the part/system ownership, including cost, quality, BOM, and change management, while working cross functionally with Product Design, suppliers, manufacturing, and internal engineering teams. The ideal candidate brings hands on release experience, launch exposure, and strong ownership across complex exterior plastic assemblies.

Responsibilities

  • Own assigned exterior parts/systems from concept through production launch
  • Lead feasibility reviews from Product Design concepts, sketches, and clay models
  • Establish and manage development timelines across the project lifecycle
  • Define functional objectives, build objectives, DVPR, and DFMEA
  • Lead design execution while leveraging internal CAD resources and/or external design partners
  • Release completed component geometry using Teamcenter/NX tools
  • Validate designs virtually (CAE) and physically through component, system, and vehicle testing
  • Manage internal documentation and change management through proprietary systems
  • Plan and oversee tooling construction and production of assemblies
  • Provide onsite support for pilot builds and production launch at assembly plants
  • Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for assembly, fit/finish, and functional issues
  • Analyze warranty data and identify cost reduction opportunities
  • Prepare and maintain safety compliance documentation
  • Act as a lead engineer to coordinate cross functional teams and drive issues to resolution

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor s degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience)
  • 1+ year of hands on Design Release Engineer experience (true release ownership required)
  • Automotive industry experience with product launch exposure (plant or supplier)
  • Experience with exterior automotive plastic components, including:
    • Fascias
    • Grilles
    • Cladding
    • Trim / applique s
  • Experience managing complex assemblies or multi part systems
  • Strong communication skills and ability to clearly explain hands on ownership and results
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint (critical); Word required
  • Ability to learn and navigate proprietary/internal systems
  • Eligibility to work in the United States

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3 8+ years of relevant DRE experience
  • Experience at an OEM or relevant Tier 1 supplier
  • Experience with Class A or painted exterior surfaces
  • Some experience with complex interior components (secondary)
  • Strong understanding of automotive release and development processes
  • Demonstrated experience working cross functionally with suppliers and plant teams

What We re Looking For

  • A self starter who takes ownership and leads from the seat
  • Strong problem solver with follow through in fast paced environments
  • Comfortable operating independently and proactively seeking answers
  • Proven ability to balance cost, quality, timing, and cross functional alignment

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

About the Company

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