Design Release Engineer Interior

Job Summary

Seating Heat & Ventilation Design Release Engineer responsible for end-to-end design, development, validation, and launch of heated and ventilated seat systems across client vehicle programs.

• Own the design and release of seat heating and ventilation components and systems (heater mats, blowers, plenums, foam interfaces, harnesses, etc.) from concept through production.
• Develop and maintain component and system-level technical specifications, design documents, and engineering standards for heated and ventilated seating.
• Lead packaging and integration of heat and ventilation systems into seat structures and foam, ensuring compliance with ergonomics, safety, comfort, manufacturability, and serviceability requirements.
• Create and maintain engineering documentation in client systems (e.g., part numbers, BOMs, drawings, 3D data).
• Coordinate with suppliers on design proposals, DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, timing plans, and cost/feasibility studies; drive robust design solutions that meet performance targets.
• Plan and execute validation activities for seat heat & ventilation systems, including thermal performance testing, durability, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Analyze test data, identify root cause of issues, and drive corrective actions and design changes to closure.
• Support vehicle builds (mules, pilots, PPAP, launch) by resolving fit, finish, function, and electrical/thermal performance issues in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with Electrical, HVAC, HMI, Body, and Vehicle Integration teams to ensure seamless system operation, proper network communication (LIN/CAN), and robust control strategies.
• Manage engineering changes (CNs/ECNs), cost reductions, and quality improvements for in-production programs.
• Support functional safety, compliance, and regulatory requirements as applicable (thermal safety, occupant comfort and health, electrical safety, etc.).
• Track and report program status, risks, and open issues to management and program teams; maintain clear and organized open‑issue lists.
• Benchmark competitive seat comfort technologies and contribute to client seating innovation roadmaps for thermal comfort and wellbeing.

• Demonstrated leadership skills, ability to work autonomously, excellent communication, positive attitude, willingness to learn, flexibility, team‑player, and attention to detail.
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET‑accredited university.
• 5+ years of engineering experience in the automotive industry.
• Hands‑on experience with heated/ventilated/cooled seat systems, including interaction with foam, trim, HVAC, modules and seat structures.
• Working knowledge of engineering fundamentals in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid flow, and/or HVAC integration.
• Prior experience as a Design Release Engineer (DRE) or System Responsible Engineer at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (CATIA, NX, or equivalent) for packaging and design review (detailed design experience is a plus).
• Experience with standard engineering tools and processes: DFMEA, DVP&R, root cause analysis, design reviews, and problem‑solving methodologies.
• Experience with global project management and leading cross‑functional teams.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy.

Compliance Notice: Alten USA is a federal contractor subject to the requirements of the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Executive Order 11246. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Drug Screening Requirement: As a federal contractor, Alten USA maintains a drug‑free workplace. All candidates selected for employment will be required to successfully complete a pre‑employment drug screening as a condition of hire.