Design Release Engineer (Cockpit Components)

Tata Technologies Ltd

Auburn Hills, MI

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Benchmarking, CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), CATIA CAD, Change Management, Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Cost Control, Electricity, Electronics, Ergonomics, Feasibility Analysis, Film, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, HVAC, Hubs, Human Machine Interface (HMI), Identify Issues, Injection Molding, Insert Molding, Leadership, Machine Tool, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Assembly, Manufacturing/Industrial Processes, Materials Engineering, Materials Testing, Mechanical Engineering, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), Painting (Facilities and Maintenance), Performance Management, Problem Solving Skills, Product Development, Product Management, Product/Service Launch, Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Prototyping, Purchasing/Procurement, Release Management/Engineering, Requirements Management, Root Cause Analysis, Technical/Engineering Design, Testing, USB, Usability Engineering, Value Engineering, Wireless Communications
LOCATION
Auburn Hills, MI
POSTED
30+ days ago

At Tata Technologies, we make product development dreams a reality by designing, engineering, and validating the products of tomorrow for the world's leading manufacturers. Due to our continued growth, we are now recruiting for a below position:

Job Title: Design and Release Engineer (Door Trims and Console)

Location: Auburn Hills, MI Duration: Full-time

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 the 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 the release of designated components. Oversee the development and refinement of cockpit components such as door trims and center consoles. Lead the end-to-end design and release of door trim and center console assembles, subcomponents, and functional modules (console body, rails, armrests, lid hinges, appliqués, rubber mats, storage bins, ambient lighting, cupholders, cut & sew applications for bolsters and upper trims, map pockets, mirrorsails, window garnish, etc.).

Own 2D/3D data, BOMs, piece numbers, and engineering documentation within Stellantiss systems. Develop and maintain functional specifications and design requirements for console systems including ergonomics, usability, and craftsmanship. Collaborate with studio, packaging, CAE, ergonomics, electrical architecture, HMI, HVAC, and manufacturing to ensure robust integration and feasibility. Support integration of console-mounted electronic features (USB ports, wireless chargers, lighting modules, switch banks, PRNDL/shifter modules).

Drives supplier engagement including design reviews, DFMEAs, tooling feasibility, APQ/PTRacking, and timing deliverables. Develop and execute DVP&R test plans for console and/or door trim structural durability, abuse, environmental, vibration, squeak & rattle, usability, and electrical integration. Support all prototype and production builds (Mule, VP, PPAP, Launch) and resolve issues quickly through structured root cause methods. Utilize formal quality tools such as root cause analysis, KT, 5-Why, RedX to investigate and eliminate console performance or assembly issues.

Travel regularly to plants and suppliers to support builds, validate manufacturability, and lead on-site troubleshooting. Evaluate materials and manufacturing processes (injection molding, soft-touch skins, foam-over-film, insert molding, overmold, paint, hydrographics, chrome, texture & grain selection). Identify and execute cost reduction and value optimization opportunities to enhance quality or reduce piece cost without sacrificing functionality or craftsmanship. Benchmark competitive console and door trim design and contribute to innovation and future cockpit experience features.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or equivalent
  • Minimum of 3 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, RedX)
  • Strong understanding of injection molding, DFM/A, materials, tolerances, GD&T, and craftsmanship fundamentals

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

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Tata Technologies Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship status, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, termination, promotions, or any other condition of employment or career development.

Tata Technologies:

Engineering a better world. Tata Technologies would like to thank all applicants for their interest. Each application will be reviewed against the set criteria for the role. We would like to advise that only candidates under consideration will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 10 working days following the closing date, it will mean that unfortunately, your application has not been successful. We will however retain your details for any suitable future opportunities.

About the Company

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Tata Technologies Ltd