Trim Engineer
Listed on 2026-10-05
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Engineering
Automotive Engineering, Quality Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Product Engineer
This 6-month contract Trim Engineer will own seat trim cover design and development for foam-and-trim seating programs, collaborating with foam, frame and product engineering teams to deliver trim that meets OEM comfort, quality and durability requirements. You will drive trim from concept through prototype, validation and launch support.
Key Responsibilities:Design and develop seat trim covers (cushion, back, bolster, head restraint, armrest) to OEM specifications
Define trim attachment methods: hog rings, J-clips, listing wires, hook-and-loop, adhesive and trench/tie-down features
Partner with foam engineering on trim-to-foam interface, trench design and surface definition to control wrinkles, gaps and fullness
Select and validate cover materials (cloth, leather, vinyl, PU, suede) and laminates (scrim, foam backing)
Support pattern development, sew-line definition and cut-sew feasibility with suppliers
Lead trim prototype builds, fit reviews and appearance approvals (craftsmanship, A-surface quality)
Resolve trim issues found in DV/PV testing, comfort evaluations and plant launch
Maintain trim BOMs, drawings, change notices and supplier communication
Support DFMEA, APQP/PPAP deliverables and root cause analysis (8D)
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
3+ years of automotive seat trim engineering experience at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier
Hands-on knowledge of trim cover construction, attachment methods and trim-to-foam fit
Working knowledge of cover materials, laminates and sewing processes
Ability to read and create drawings with GD&T
Familiarity with APQP, PPAP and DFMEA
Clear communicator comfortable with suppliers, plant teams and OEM customers
Skills:
CATIA V5/3
DEXPERIENCE, including surface and flattening/pattern toolsExperience with molded foam programs (head restraints, bolsters, armrests, integral skin)
Exposure to seat comfort testing, pressure mapping or craftsmanship evaluations
Experience with GM, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota or other major OEM seating programs
Program launch experience in a manufacturing environment
3+ years automotive seat trim engineering experience required. Proficient in CATIA V5/3
DEXPERIENCE surface and pattern tools. Skilled at APQP, PPAP, DFMEA, and supplier coordination
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