Design Release Engineer

Now Hiring Design Release Engineer

Location: Auburn Hills, MI

Pay: $42.97 per hour

Schedule: Hybrid, >80% onsite

Travel: ~10% (U.S., Mexico, Canada, India, France)

Driving Required: Yes - vehicle testing involved

Employee Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and pet insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plans
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Commuter/Parking Accounts
• People Perks
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• AD & D Insurance

Position Overview

We are seeking a Design Release Engineer to lead the design, development, validation, and release of internal combustion engine components. This role focuses on pistons, piston rings, piston pins, connecting rods, and piston cooling jets. The DRE will drive component design through the full product lifecycle-from concept and sourcing support through validation and PPAP release.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience or strong foundational knowledge of internal combustion engines, along with a passion for mechanical systems, motorsports, or engine development.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Development

• Lead the design of powercell/cranktrain components aligned with engine and vehicle requirements.
• Create and refine design concepts based on safety, durability, performance, and reliability targets.
• Support CAD modeling, FEA, structural analysis, and other CAE validation methods.
• Collaborate with engineering groups including calibration, testing, thermal, packaging, manufacturing, and quality.

Release & Program Management

• Manage the design release process from early concept to production (B-Sample through X3 milestones).
• Own the EBOM (Engineering Bill of Materials) and Change Notices for assigned components.
• Ensure components meet cost, quality, timing, and regulatory targets.
• Lead or support the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) for assigned hardware.
• Partner with manufacturing, suppliers, and quality teams to drive successful launch.

Technical Guidance & Problem Solving

• Provide technical leadership in resolving design, material, manufacturing, and process issues.
• Lead DFMEA and risk mitigation activities to ensure robust design.
• Support development of test strategies (dyno, vibration, fatigue, thermal, durability).
• Provide engineering guidance to cross-functional teams and junior engineers.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with suppliers to ensure manufacturability, cost effectiveness, and design feasibility.
• Collaborate with validation teams to develop and execute component-level and system-level tests.
• Partner with vehicle integration teams to ensure proper interface and fitment.
• Provide strong support for engine manufacturing, especially crankshaft machining/production processes.

Documentation & Reporting

• Create and maintain design specifications, drawings, CAD models, test plans, and validation reports.
• Maintain up-to-date technical documentation aligned with program milestones and PPAP expectations.
• Report program status, risks, and validation results to leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Track component performance and wear results using DVP&R documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (ABET accredited).
  
  
  
  • BSEE or BSCE considered with highly relevant experience.
  
  
  
  
• 1-3 years of experience in engine component design (internships, Formula SAE, racing, or hands-on build experience accepted).
• Knowledge or experience with:
  
  
  
  • Crankshafts, pistons, rings, connecting rods, lubrication systems, oil consumption
  • Mechanics of Materials, NVH, vibration, sealing systems
  • Structural analysis, failure modes, CAE fundamentals
  • GD&T and component requirements authoring
  
  
  
  
• Experience selecting materials and manufacturing methods for mechanical components.
• Strong communication, teamwork, leadership, and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis in engine systems or similar.
• Experience developing and executing validation plans.
• Demonstrated expertise in Powercell or cranktrain systems.
• Hands-on experience with engine testing, dyno work, or validation programs.
• Proficiency with Siemens NX or other 3D CAD software.
• Familiarity with corporate engine development processes.

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