Trim Engineer

The Trim Engineer leads the development of one or more trim programs in automotive seating, providing direction and follow up to staff and customer business units. Works closely with Principal Engineer or Chief Trim Engineer. Able to take direction and use basic engineering practices to develop and implement trim design solutions that meet quality, cost, and craftsmanship objectives. Provides/influences complete seat and foam engineering input/direction to jointly achieve flawless seat appearance and craftsmanship.

• Apply principles of 2D pattern design, using either manual patterns and/or Trim Optitex 2D CAD tools as appropriate.
• Designs trim patterns in-line with the Trim, Foam Interface Template and follows Design for Assembly guidelines.
• Designs trim covers to meet cost targets and/or identifies issues and opportunities using the design for cost tools.
• Releases final product data into TPDM and PLM;
  Write and promote DA's & ECR's.
• Supports Complete Seat Build Events.
• Digitizes patterns into Optitex electronic CAD patterning systems if/when needed.
• Making trim style proposals on 3D model to improve quality seat appearance.
• Cut and Sew and/or provide cutting/sewing support to the sew cell for development and prototype covers.
• Build/assemble development seats to verify trim designs, understanding and using production build methods
• Assists in costing and quoting activities by compiling the proper information for submittal.
• Thorough understanding of Change Management process. Writes Trim cover ECR's and track to completion.
• Manages ECO CN release of engineering data in TPDM and PLM, including all required documentation, drawings, etc.
• Reviews and understands EBOM.
• Provides engineering solutions based on data-driven problem solving and application of Basic Engineering Process (BEP).
• Supports key build events at JIT plants and able to interface unsupervised with working level customer representatives (internal and external).
• Supports creation of Trim Construction drawings for final trim cover release.
• Recommends solutions to process issues within the Sew and JIT facilities. Supports creation of manufacturing ODS.
• Provides support when SDT recommends changes that affect external components (seat systems, foam, structures, trim covers, tooling and plastics) – demonstrated ability to troubleshoot.
• May be expected to travel to support the SDT and/or manufacturing plant(s) if/when needed. Frequency and durations vary based on program assignments, but typically does not exceed 1-2 weeks at a time.

• Communicates with Suppliers and Customer to attend needs from Trim Business
• Communicates between internal functional groups (Purchasing, Program Management Engineering, Sew Manufacturing, JIT Manufacturing)
• Supplies required information to, and interfaces directly with, Soft Trim Materials Engineering team to support trim material evaluation and issue resolution processes.
• Understands and contributes to A3's, A4's, tactical plans and issues lists.
• Provide key point of contact for program team, support in customer communications in the area of trim design and feasibility.

• BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• 0-5 years of experience. Interior automotive trim experience preferred.