Design Release Engineer – Cockpit (Instrument Panel, Console & Doors)

Job Description:

• A Client Design Release Engineer (Cockpit Instrument Panel) is an engineering professional responsible for the design, development, and production release of the Instrument Panel and associated cockpit components (including Console and Doors), ensuring they meet performance, quality, safety, and cost requirements throughout the product lifecycle.
• This role involves collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers to manage design feasibility, technical specifications, validation testing, risk assessment (DFMEA), and production processes, ultimately ensuring a successful and robust interior design is integrated into the final vehicle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design & Development: Drive the design and development of Instrument Panel components with additional scope on Console and Doors from concept through production release.
• Supplier Collaboration: Work closely with Instrument Panel, Console, and Doors suppliers on design feasibility, manufacturability, cost, and adherence to engineering standards.
• Technical Leadership: Provide technical guidance and support to resolve design issues, material selection challenges, and process problems.
• Validation & Testing: Develop and implement validation testing strategies, including component, vehicle, and durability testing, to ensure components meet performance metrics.
• Risk Management: Lead risk assessment activities, such as Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA), to ensure design robustness and mitigate potential issues.
• Documentation: Generate and manage technical documentation, including system and sub-system technical specifications.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Partner with manufacturing, quality, testing, and vehicle integration teams to ensure seamless implementation and integration of interior designs.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is typically required.
• Experience: 3 to 5/6 years of relevant experience in design/development engineering, particularly in Interior Systems, with proven experience on Instrument Panel and exposure to Console and Doors.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) tools, design validation processes (DVP), and failure mode analysis (DFMEA). Proficiency in plastic injection molding and trim assembly processes, specific knowledge of Instrument Panel architecture (including airbag integration and cross-car beam) as well as Console and Door panel design, Knowledge of ergonomic design and HMI integration, CAD expertise for packaging and design, Understanding of safety and regulatory requirements, Experience with fit & finish and perceived quality optimization.
• Soft Skills: Strong communication, leadership, problem-solving, organizational, and detail-oriented skills are essential.
• Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and interface professionally with cross-functional teams and management.