Design and Release Engineer - Closures

Job title: Design and Release Engineer - Closures

Mission

Position Overview

The Closure Design Release Engineer (DRE) leads the design, development, integration, and validation of automotive closure systems (doors, hood, tailgate/liftgate, trunk lid, side doors, and sealing/latching systems). This role spans concept creation through production launch, ensuring full compliance with structural, ergonomic, safety, NVH, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Integration: Lead 3D/2D CAD development for closure assemblies, including metal/composite panels, hinges, latches, drop glass mechanisms, and sealing systems.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Coordinate with Styling, Body-in-White (BIW), Vehicle Integration, Ergonomics, and Manufacturing to align functional packaging and vehicle clearance.

• Validation & Testing: Define and execute DVP&R (Design Verification Plan and Report) for sealing, water ingress, air leakage, slam durability, crash safety, and operational effort (effort-to-close).

• Root Cause & Issue Resolution: Analyze warranty, pre-production build, and assembly plant issues (gap and flush, wind noise, water leaks) using 8D and 5-Why methodologies.

• Supplier & Tooling Management: Manage Tier-1 supplier design deliverables, tool timing, DFM/DFA feasibility, and part approvals (PPAP).

• Profile

• Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Automotive, or Aerospace Engineering.

• Experience: 3+ years of automotive engineering experience dedicated to vehicle closure systems as a Design Release Engineer.

• CAD/PLM Proficiency: Proficient in CATIA V5/V6 or Siemens NX, along with PLM environments like Teamcenter or Enovia.

• Technical Mastery: Solid understanding of closure kinematics, stamping/joining processes (spot welding, hem flanging, structural adhesives), and sealing design.

• Quality & Engineering Tools: Practical knowledge of DFMEA, GD&T, 6-Sigma quality practices, and problem-solving protocols.

• Preferred Qualifications

• EV Lightweight Structures: Experience with electric vehicle lightweight closure structures (aluminum, composite panels, frameless doors).

• Mechatronics & Powered Closures: Familiarity with powered closure systems (power liftgates, automated door actuation, electronic latches).

• Launch & Production Support: Pre-production build and assembly plant launch support experience.

Location

Auburn Hills, United States