Vehicle Access Design Release Engineer; DRE

Job Title

Vehicle Access Design Release Engineer (DRE)

Auburn Hills, MI

3–6 Years

We are seeking a Vehicle Access Design Release Engineer (DRE) to support the design, development, release, validation, and integration of vehicle access systems across current and future vehicle programs.

The ideal candidate will have experience owning components throughout the product development lifecycle, including requirements definition, supplier management, design reviews, validation, issue resolution, engineering changes, and production launch support. This role focuses on both mechanical and electronic vehicle access components, ensuring functionality, quality, manufacturability, and compliance from concept through production.

• Own the design release and development of vehicle access components throughout the product lifecycle.
• Manage engineering releases, design changes, BOM updates, and product documentation.
• Coordinate component development activities with suppliers, manufacturing, validation teams, and program stakeholders.
• Lead component packaging reviews, technical assessments, and design feasibility studies.
• Support engineering change management and issue resolution throughout prototype and production phases.

Lead the design, integration, and validation of:

• Door handles (manual and electronic)
• Latches and lock systems
• Actuators and access mechanisms
• Passive Entry / Passive Start (PEPS) systems
• Key fobs and smart access devices
• SPAAK systems
• KIN modules
• TPMS-related access interfaces
• Wireless security and authentication systems

• Define component requirements, performance targets, and interface specifications.
• Support and participate in DFMEA, PFMEA, design reviews, and technical risk assessments.
• Coordinate DV/PV testing activities and support validation planning.
• Analyze warranty, field, and test data to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Support supplier quality reviews, audits, and part verification activities.
• Ensure compliance with OEM standards, regulatory requirements, and vehicle safety targets.

• Work closely with systems, validation, manufacturing, purchasing, quality, and supplier teams.
• Support prototype builds, vehicle integration activities, and launch readiness reviews.
• Present technical updates and recommendations to engineering leadership and program teams.
• Drive issue resolution and maintain program timing throughout development milestones.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 4–6 years of automotive engineering experience.
• Prior Design Release Engineer (DRE), Component Engineer, Product Engineer, or Systems Integration Engineer experience.
• Hands‑on experience with vehicle access systems, body electronics, or closure systems.
• Experience owning components through design, release, validation, and launch phases.
• Working knowledge of automotive product development processes including APQP, DV/PV, and gateway reviews.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and CAD data.
• Strong problem‑solving, root cause analysis, and issue management skills.

• Experience with PEPS, keyless entry, RFHM, TPMS, or vehicle security systems.
• Knowledge of CAN and LIN communication networks related to body electronics.
• Experience using NX or other CAD tools.
• Experience managing Tier 1 suppliers and technical reviews.
• Familiarity with engineering change management and release processes.
• Design Release Engineering
• Vehicle Access Systems
• Product Development
• Validation & Testing
• Technical Decision-Making
• Cross-Functional Leadership
• Program Execution
• Effective Communication

We offer comprehensive benefits for all full-time employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) plan with employer matching; paid time off (PTO); paid parental leave; and mentorship to help you take your career to the next level.

ALTEN Technology is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our Policy is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual’s age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or veteran status.