Design Release Engineer - I​/P Structures

Interior Design Release Engineer (DRE) - Instrument Panel Structure

Role Overview

As an Interior Design Release Engineer (DRE), you will serve as the technical authority for Instrument Panel (IP) Structure. You will lead the engineering development, integration, validation, and launch of this subsystem, with a strong focus on safety, quality, technical excellence, and execution.

You will be responsible for delivering engineering solutions that meet program milestones while achieving targets for cost, mass, performance, craftsmanship, and design intent across the vehicle portfolio.

This role requires strong engineering fundamentals, systems thinking, and hands-on experience in CAD integration, supplier collaboration, and validation from early concept through production launch.

Key Responsibilities Program & Technical Leadership

+ Lead design, development, analysis, implementation, and validation of the instrument panel structure subsystem.

+ Perform engineering design evaluations and support concept development across vehicle programs.

+ Apply engineering tools such as DFMEA, ICDs, PFMEA, and collaborate with CAE teams (including Safety Performance) to deliver optimal system solutions.

+ Evaluate designs for manufacturability (e.g., stamping, welding, casting, injection molding).

+ Manage CAD development (internal and suppliers) and ensure best practices are followed.

+ Coordinate cross-functional integration with Thermal, Electrical, Body, Chassis, and Restraints systems.

+ Lead design peer reviews and ensure technical rigor throughout development.

+ Drive cost optimization, product improvements, and customer requirement fulfillment.

+ Balance key program constraints such as cost, mass, timing, complexity, and content.

+ Lead Product Development Team (PDT) activities and communicate effectively with stakeholders (Design, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Quality, suppliers).

+ Track and resolve issues, ensuring timely closure.

+ Benchmark competitive designs to inform product direction and decision-making.

+ Lead change management processes and ensure disciplined execution.

+ Support Statement of Requirements (SOR) and Statement of Work (SOW) development.

+ Partner in DFMEA, DRBFM, and FEA activities.

+ Lead launch activities with focus on quality and on-time delivery.

Operational Excellence & Enterprise Alignment

+ Contribute to enterprise initiatives such as virtual development, CAE-driven design, and automation.

+ Maintain strong engineering discipline, including documentation, risk assessments, and lessons learned.

+ Drive structured change management with clear problem statements and data-driven decisions.

+ Use benchmarking to guide design and BOM strategies.

+ Foster a collaborative, accountable team culture with early risk escalation.

+ Support knowledge management through standards, templates, and best practices.

+ Travel as needed to support development, testing, supplier trials, and vehicle launches.

Required Qualifications Education & Experience

+ Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace, Materials, or related field).

+ Minimum of 3 years of experience in instrument panel structure development, from concept through launch. (Non-Negotiable)

+ Proven track record of subsystem ownership, issue resolution, and milestone delivery.

Technical Expertise

+ Strong knowledge of welded stampings, structural assemblies, and cast components.

+ Understanding of IP structure, IP trim, and floor console performance requirements and regulations.

+ Experience in vehicle integration and design for manufacturability.

+ Proficiency in DFMEA, DRBFM, ADVP&R, ICDs, and PFMEA collaboration.

+ Strong collaboration with CAE teams to validate designs using data-driven methods.

+ Experience applying DFSS principles (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).

Skills

+ Strong ownership mindset with ability to manage multiple priorities.

+ Effective project management skills (PMP preferred).

+ Expertise in change management and decision-making processes.

+ Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

+ Ability to influence without authority and drive alignment across teams.

Tools & Software

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Experience with CAD…