Tire Design Release Engineer Job Auburn area,Alabama USA,Engineering

Tire Design Release Engineer leads the development, validation, and release of tire systems for current and future vehicle programs. This role is responsible for ensuring tire performance meets all vehicle attribute targets including ride, handling, noise, durability, rolling resistance, and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with vehicle dynamics, chassis, wheel, brake, and supplier teams to deliver robust tire solutions from concept through production.

Key Responsibilities

Lead tire selection and development for assigned vehicle programs
Define tire performance specifications aligned with vehicle-level targets (ride, handling, NVH, durability, etc.)
Manage tire supplier relationships, including sourcing, technical reviews, and issue resolution
Coordinate tire releases in PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter) in accordance with program timing
Conduct and support vehicle-level testing where applicable (proving ground, lab, winter testing, etc.)
Analyze test data and drive optimization of tire performance
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (FMVSS, ECE, etc.)
Support root cause analysis and resolution of tire-related issues
Work cross-functionally with:
- Suspension/Chassis Engineering
- Vehicle Dynamics
- Wheel & Brake Systems
- Manufacturing and Quality
Participate in program reviews and report status to leadership

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Minimum of five years of automotive engineering experience (tire, wheel, chassis, or vehicle dynamics preferred)
Strong understanding of tire construction, performance characteristics, and testing methods
Understanding of cost drivers within tire designs
Experience working with tire suppliers (e.g., Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Continental, etc.)
Knowledge of PLM systems (Teamcenter or equivalent)
Experience with vehicle testing and data analysis tools

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in tire development or release engineering
Familiarity with simulation tools (e.g., MF-Tyre, Adams, Car Sim)
Understanding of vehicle attribute trade-offs (rolling resistance vs. handling vs. NVH)
Experience with global vehicle programs and regulatory environments
Master’s degree in Engineering (preferred but not required

Key Competencies

Technical depth in tire systems
Program management and execution focus
Supplier management and negotiation skills
Data-driven decision making
Strong attention to detail and quality

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