A leading automotive organization is seeking a Design Release Engineer (DRE) to own and deliver exterior automotive systems from early design concepts through full‑volume production. This role is focused on true design release ownership , not CAD design support. The DRE is accountable for cost, quality, BOM, timing, and change management , working cross‑functionally with Product Design, suppliers, manufacturing plants, and internal engineering teams.
The ideal candidate has hands‑on release experience , product launch exposure , and a strong background in exterior plastic components .
Responsibilities
- Own assigned exterior parts/systems from concept through production launch
- Provide feasibility input for designs from sketches, clay models, and early concepts
- Establish and manage development timelines across the full project lifecycle
- Define functional objectives, build objectives, DVPR , and DFMEA
- Lead design execution while leveraging internal CAD resources and external design partners
- Release completed component geometry using Teamcenter / NX tools
- Validate designs using CAE resources and physical testing at component, system, and vehicle levels
- Manage internal documentation and change management for system releases
- Plan and oversee tooling construction and production of assemblies
- Provide onsite support for vehicle pilot builds and production launches
- Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions related to assembly, fit/finish, and functional issues
- Analyze warranty data and identify cost‑reduction opportunities
- Prepare and maintain safety compliance documentationAct as a lead engineer, coordinating cross‑functional teams to drive issues to resolution
Required Qualifications
- Automotive industry experience (required)
- Minimum 1+ year of hands‑on Design Release Engineer experience
- Must be true release ownership, not design‑only or support roles
- Experience supporting product launches with plant or supplier exposure
- Experience with exterior automotive plastic components , including:
- Cladding
- Experience managing complex assemblies or multi‑part systems
- Ability to clearly articulate hands‑on responsibilities and ownership of released parts
- Strong communication skills and ability to work cross‑functionally
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint (Word required)
- Must be eligible to work in the United States