Automotive Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer Mid-level (L4 equivalent) 2-5 years

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The job description

Tech stack. Automotive design standards, DV/PV testing per OEM specs, GD&T for automotive, DFM at automotive volumes, APQP and PPAP, supplier technical management, SolidWorks or CATIA, material specifications

About the role

You will design mechanical components at a Tier 1 automotive supplier producing interior and exterior trim systems for major OEMs. Your parts must meet demanding OEM specifications, survive full automotive validation (thermal shock, vibration, UV, chemical exposure), and cost pennies at million-unit annual volumes. You will own components from RFQ response and technical feasibility through design, validation, PPAP approval, and production launch, working within the rigorous APQP process the industry demands and the launch timelines it enforces. You will design automotive components and systems that meet the industry's demanding requirements for durability, safety, and cost. Your designs will survive the full vehicle validation gauntlet: proving grounds, environmental chambers, and millions of simulated miles. You will work within APQP processes that demand rigorous documentation and risk management.

What you will achieve

Deliver component designs that pass DV and PV testing per OEM specifications on the committed timeline, with test reports accepted without major findings.
Achieve PPAP approval at the required submission level with complete documentation: dimensional reports, material certifications, process flow diagrams, and control plans.
Meet piece-price targets through DFM, material selection, process optimization, and supplier collaboration, without compromising quality or specification compliance.
Resolve launch issues at the assembly plant with rapid root-cause analysis and permanent corrective actions verified by data, protecting both your launch metrics and the OEM relationship.
Maintain quality performance on your components through production, measured in single-digit PPM with zero safety or compliance escapes.

What you will bring

Must-haves

2 to 5 years of automotive mechanical design or product engineering experience with launched components.
Knowledge of APQP phases, PPAP submission requirements, FMEA methodology, and control plans as practiced in the auto industry.
Experience designing plastic or metal components for high-volume automotive production including tooling considerations.
Understanding of automotive validation: mechanical, thermal, humidity, UV weathering, and chemical resistance testing.
Ability to work directly with OEM customers on specifications, design reviews, and issue resolution.
BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.

Nice-to-haves

Experience with interior trim, seating systems, or exterior closures specifically.
Familiarity with IATF 16949 quality system requirements and auditing.
Background in cost engineering and should-cost analysis for automotive piece price.
Knowledge of IMDS and material compliance reporting.