Aufgabe
Position Overview
The Suspension Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the design, development, validation, timing, and production release of chassis suspension components and sub-systems for production vehicle programs. This role involves working with cross-functional teams and external suppliers to establish functional objectives, develop suspension architectures, and deliver high-quality components from initial concept through vehicle launch.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Development
Component Engineering: Lead the design, packaging, and engineering release of suspension components and systems (e.g., control arms, dampers, springs, knuckles, stabilizer bars, bushings, cradles, and subframes).
Architecture Development: Work with advanced engineering teams on the upfront development and architecture of suspension systems.
Vehicle Kinematics: Define kinematics and compliance (K&C) concepts, suspension hardpoints, wheel alignment parameters, and packaging clearances.
Supplier & Program Management
Technical Sourcing: Lead part development activities with suppliers, establish technical requirements, and review RFQs.
Target Achievement: Manage component timing, cost, and weight targets to ensure program deliverables and quality gates are met.
Launch Readiness: Oversee supplier readiness, tooling development, and the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process).
Validation & Quality
Risk & Verification Management: Create, update, and manage DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and DVP&R (Design Verification Plan & Report).
Cross-Functional Integration: Coordinate with Vehicle Dynamics, NVH, Brakes, Durability, and CAE teams to evaluate structural load paths, strength, fatigue life, and noise/vibration isolation.
Issue Resolution: Address and perform root-cause analysis on plant build issues, early field/warranty concerns, and quality defects.
Manufacturing & Plant Support
Build Support: Support prototype, pre-series, and pilot vehicle builds at assembly plant sites.
Process Alignment: Work with manufacturing and supplier quality engineers (SQE) to resolve build challenges, line fitments, and assembly process limitations.
Cost & Weight Optimization: Propose and execute Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VAVE) and TVM ideas for cost and weight optimization.
Profil
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Structural Engineering, or an equivalent ABET-accredited engineering degree.