The Valvetrain & Timing Drive Design Release Engineer is responsible for engineering activities related to the development of valvetrain and timing drive components for gasoline engines, including cylinder deactivation hardware and controls.

In this role, you will oversee the design, development, testing, manufacturing interface, and failure analysis of these critical systems. As a key member of our engineering team, you will collaborate closely to solve complex problems, drive product improvements, and execute cost-reduction initiatives. You will interact extensively with cross-functional areas involved in component release, including Purchasing, Supplier Quality, Engine Plants, Design, and Parts & Service.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Participate as a core member on various engineering projects. Work effectively within a team environment to manage multiple priorities while balance inputs from a variety of stakeholders.

• Technical Problem Solving: Resolve technical issues based on rigorous engineering analysis of camshafts, camshaft phasers, rocker arms, valves, valve seats, valve guide inserts, valve springs, timing chains, timing guides, and tensioners.

• Test Planning & Coordination: Plan and coordinate test execution utilizing standard engineering tools (such as DFMEAs and DVP&Rs), while actively monitoring progress and results.

• Data Analysis: Analyze test and measurement data to create concise summaries with data-based conclusions, presenting actionable recommendations to the team.

• Travel: Ability to travel to engine assembly plants and supplier sites as required.

Basic Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering field.

• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience working with the design and manufacturing of powertrain components.

• Manufacturing Knowledge: Clear understanding of valvetrain/timing drive components and their related manufacturing processes (e.g., steel stamping, machining, grinding, heat treatment).

• Development Tools: Solid understanding of product development documentation, specifically DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and DVP&R (Design Verification Plan and Report).

• Technical Skills: Strong understanding of the Mechanics of Materials, engine cam timing, CAE Analysis, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).

• Component Design: Experience in selecting appropriate materials and manufacturing methods for complex mechanical components.

• Requirements Authoring: Ability to write clear, comprehensive system and component-level technical requirements.

• Professional Skills: Strong project management, interpersonal communication, leadership, and oral/written presentation skills.

• Failure Analysis: Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and the failure modes of complex mechanical systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

• Direct, specialized experience with valvetrain or timing drive systems.

• Hands-on experience creating and executing comprehensive validation plans.

• Proficiency with 3D CAD programs, preferably Siemens NX.

Critical Success Traits

The ideal candidate is a motivated self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment and demonstrates the following characteristics:

• Action-Oriented: Ready to take on new challenges with energy and drive.

• Comfortable with Ambiguity: Able to operate effectively and make sound decisions even when the path forward is not fully defined.

• Customer-Focused: Dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers.

• Problem Solver: Uses rigorous logic and methods to solve difficult problems with effective solutions.