Design Release Engineer

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #; } tr th { background-color: #; } Overview A leading automotive organization is seeking a Design Release Engineer (DRE) to own and deliver exterior automotive systems from early design concept through full volume production. This role is focused on true design release ownership, not CAD design support.

The DRE is accountable for cost, quality, BOM, timing, and change management, working cross functionally with Product Design, suppliers, manufacturing plants, and internal engineering teams.
The ideal candidate has hands on release experience, product launch exposure, and a strong background in exterior plastic components. Responsibilities

• Own assigned exterior parts/systems from concept through production launch
• Provide feasibility input for designs from sketches, clay models, and early concepts
• Establish and manage development timelines across the full project lifecycle
• Define functional objectives, build objectives, DVPR, and DFMEA
• Lead design execution while leveraging internal CAD resources and external design partners
• Release completed component geometry using Teamcenter / NX tools
• Validate designs using CAE resources and physical testing at component, system, and vehicle levels
• Manage internal documentation and change management for system releases
• Plan and oversee tooling construction and production of assemblies
• Provide onsite support for vehicle pilot builds and production launches
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions related to 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, coordinating cross functional teams to drive issues to resolution

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor s degree in Engineering
• Automotive industry experience (required)
• Minimum 1+ year of hands on Design Release Engineer experience
  • Must be true release ownership, not design only or support roles
• Experience supporting product launches with plant or supplier exposure
• Experience with exterior automotive plastic components, including:
  • Fascias
  • Grilles
  • Cladding
  • Trim / applique s
• Experience managing complex assemblies or multi part systems
• Ability to clearly articulate hands on responsibilities and ownership of released parts
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross functionally
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Power Point (Word required)
• Must be eligible to work in the United States

Preferred Qualifications

• 3 8+ years of relevant DRE experience
• Experience at an OEM (strongly preferred) 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
• Experience working closely with suppliers and manufacturing/plant teams

What We re Looking For

• A self starter with a strong ownership mindset
• Comfortable leading from the seat without step by step direction
• Strong problem solver with proven follow through
• Able to operate effectively in a fast paced, complex engineering environment

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.