Automotive Exterior Engineer

Exterior Engineer – Trim/Fascia

SWJ Technologie specializes in providing engineering, planning, and project management services across various industries. We are currently seeking an Exterior Engineer – Trim/Fascia for an assigned project with a client in the automotive industry. The position is based in Novi, MI, or Charlotte, NC, and follows a hybrid work model requiring in-office presence at least three days per week, as well as international and domestic travel of up to approximately 20%.

If you are eager to grow your career and make a meaningful impact on exciting projects, we look forward to your application.

Purpose:

The Exterior Engineer - Trim/Fascia is responsible for the design, development, and delivery of vehicle exterior systems, including bumpers, fascia, and trim components, for next-generation electric vehicles. The role ensures robust, high-quality, and manufacturable solutions that meet performance, safety, and aesthetic requirements while supporting program targets and timelines.

• Engineer and develop vehicle exterior systems including bumpers, fascia, grilles, brackets, bumper beams, hitches, structural reinforcements, and exterior trim components.
• Define and establish bumper and fascia standards and requirements to ensure product robustness and quality.
• Ensure seamless integration of components into manufacturing processes while meeting all program milestones and deliverables.
• Lead and/or support RFQ development, technical reviews, and supplier selection.
• Lead cross-functional Product Development Teams, collaborating with internal stakeholders and suppliers to define design direction and deliver innovative, feasible solutions.
• Ensure all program targets are met, including piece cost, investment, ED&D budget, timing, weight, and quality.
• Develop and maintain engineering documentation such as specifications, DVP&R, DFMEA, control plans, and quality requirements.
• Direct design and analysis teams in developing CAD models, 3D packaging, and validation using CAE tools (FEA, CFD, crash analysis).
• Ensure compliance with global safety regulations and compatibility with manufacturing processes such as injection molding, painting, and assembly.
• Act as a key technical decision-maker and interface across cross-functional teams.
• Define and manage component and subsystem requirements, including interface control documents (ICDs).
• Track and resolve technical issues in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Ensure timely validation, complete testing coverage, and requirement traceability at component, system, and vehicle levels.
• Conduct design reviews and product evaluations during prototype and pre-production phases.
• Support prototype development, including virtual and physical validation and field testing.
• Monitor market trends, customer expectations, and technological advancements to drive continuous improvement.
• Apply industry best practices such as Robust Engineering, Design for Manufacturability (DFM), and Design for Serviceability (DFS).
• Travel:
  Domestic and international travel required as needed. May include visits to assembly plants, supplier facilities, tool shops, and participation in vehicle builds and launch events. Valid passport required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience in automotive exterior systems design and development.
• Demonstrated capability in solving complex engineering challenges.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in the field of expertise

Required Skills:

• Expertise in exterior systems with specialization in one or more of the following:
  Exterior Trim, Fascia Systems, Bumper Systems.
• Strong knowledge of Class A surface components and trim mechanical systems across all product development phases (Design, Test, Launch).
• Solid understanding of mechanical design principles including GD&T, material selection, and DFM.
• Proficiency in CAD tools (preferably CATIA V5/V6).
• Experience with PLM systems (preferably Teamcenter).
• Familiarity with CAE tools and validation methods.
• Hands-on experience in automotive product launches, including prototype builds and production ramp-up.
• Knowledge of high-volume automotive…