We are seeking a highly skilled, business-minded Design & Release (D&R) Engineer to lead the development, implementation, and financial optimization of Automotive Accessories and Performance Components.

In this role, you will act as the primary liaison between the OEM and international suppliers, managing the product lifecycle from initial business case approval through market introduction. You will not only own the technical execution (CAD, packaging, and validation) of your assigned commodities but also drive Value Optimization (VAVE) strategies to ensure all engineering, quality, and cost requirements are successfully met.

• Program Execution & Launch: Manage the development and launch of automotive accessories from business case approval through market introduction, ensuring compliance with vehicle program timing and deliverables.

• Value Optimization & Budget Management: Drive cost-value analysis and execute Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) initiatives. Own the commodity budget, track cost reduction goals, and maintain the financial database.

• Supplier & Project Management: Serve as the primary technical liaison with international Tier 1 and aftermarket suppliers. Manage supplier selection, product validation, testing, and detailed Bill of Materials (BOMs).

• Design & CAD Packaging: Lead early Computer Aided Design (CAD) creation, 2D drawings (including GD&T), and packaging feasibility studies using NX / Teamcenter. Ensure accessories integrate seamlessly with base vehicle systems.

• Quality & Validation: Author, update, and own core engineering quality documentation, including DFMEA, FMEA, and DVP&R to guarantee functional objectives and regulatory compliance.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with cross-functional teams (including vehicle teams, HMI, validation, and leadership) to ensure successful program execution and launch readiness.

• Root-Cause & Production Support: Follow, track, and root-cause build issues found during pre-production phases, support assembly plant launches, and conduct warranty analysis post-launch.

• Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field from an accredited university. (An MBA is a plus).

• Automotive Experience: 3+ years of experience as a Design & Release (D&R) Engineer within the automotive industry, specifically working with automotive accessories, performance parts, or aftermarket product lines.

• CAD Software: Proficient in NX and Teamcenter (or Catia) for modeling, drafting, and template data management.

• Core Quality Tools: Strong working knowledge of DFMEA, DVP&R, and GD&T.

• Financial Acumen: Proven experience in project budget tracking, change management (CCD, CN, PER, ICD), and driving cost reduction (VAVE).

• Communication: Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills; ability to present program status, action plans, and risks to executive management.

• Experience developing accessories across multiple vehicle commodities:

  • Plásticos / Interiores: Injection-molded plastics, decorative components, mechanisms, and tooling feasibility.

  • Eléctrica / Infotainment: Wiring harness packaging, CAN/LIN bus circuits, Bluetooth/WiFi protocols, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

  • Mecánica / Performance: Suspension components (e.g., lift kits), body hardware, or High Voltage Battery Systems (HVBS) concepts.

• Certification in Quality Methods: Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) Green Belt or Black Belt, Shainin, or 3L5Y.

• Experience with engineering service companies (e.g., Segula, Alten, RLE) supporting major OEMs (Stellantis, Ford, GM).