Design Release Engineer (DRE) Chassis (Powertrain Mounts or Steering Systems)

  • Permanent Contract
  • Full-time
  • At least 5 years of experience (Senior level)
  • Bachelor degree
  • DESIGN ENGINEER

Mission

We are seeking highly skilled and experienced Design Release Engineers (DRE) – Chassis to join our team, focusing on one of two critical domains: Powertrain Mounts or Steering Systems.

In this role, you will support the design, development, validation, and release of complex chassis systems and components. You will work cross-functionally with internal engineering teams, global suppliers, and manufacturing to ensure designs meet performance, NVH, durability, safety, cost, quality, and timing targets throughout the product lifecycle.

The position is fully remote with availability to travel occasionally, supporting global vehicle programs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Component Ownership: Act as the Design Release Engineer for assigned chassis subsystems, depending on specialization:

    • For Powertrain Mounts: Engine/transmission mounts, torque rods, brackets, structural isolation, and elastomeric/hydraulic mounting systems.

    • For Steering Systems: Steering gears (EPS/rEPS), columns, intermediate shafts, tie rods, linkages, and mechatronic integration.

  • End-to-End Release: Own the design release process from concept through production, including requirements definition, CAD data release, engineering change management, and BOM ownership.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with CAE, Durability, NVH, Vehicle Dynamics, Manufacturing, Quality, and Functional Safety teams to ensure robust system integration.

  • Supplier Management: Lead supplier technical reviews, ensuring supplier designs meet functional, packaging, cost, timing, and quality requirements.

  • Validation & Testing: Manage DFMEA, DVP&R, and design validation activities. Support prototype builds, rig/vehicle testing, issue resolution, and root cause analysis (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys).

  • Continuous Improvement: Drive weight reduction, cost optimization, and design robustness while ensuring compliance with OEM standards and regulatory requirements (FMVSS, ISO 26262 when applicable).

Profile

Required Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Automotive Engineering, or related field.

  • Experience: 5+ years of experience as a DRE or Product Engineer within the automotive chassis domain, with deep expertise in at least one of the following areas:

    • Powertrain Mounts: Strong understanding of rubber-to-metal bonding, elastomer behavior, hydro-mount technology, and dynamic/static stiffness.

    • Steering Systems: Solid knowledge of steering kinematics, vehicle dynamics, and Electronic Power Steering (EPS) components.

  • Release Process: Proven experience with design release processes in an OEM or Tier 1 environment.

  • CAD & Tools: Proficiency in CAD systems (CATIA, NX, or equivalent) for packaging and interface checks.

  • Core Engineering Tools: Solid experience with DFMEA, DVP&R, and engineering change management.

  • Language: Fluent in English (written and verbal) with strong cross-functional communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge of domain-specific manufacturing processes (precision machining, aluminum casting, steel stamping, forging, or rubber vulcanization).

  • Familiarity with PLM systems (Teamcenter, Windchill, etc.).

  • For Steering applicants: Knowledge of Functional Safety (ISO 26262) requirements.

  • Experience supporting multiple global vehicle programs simultaneously.