Mission
Job Summary
We are seeking an ambitious, detail-oriented Jr. Design Release Engineer (DRE) – Checking Fixtures to join our engineering team in Toluca. Operating under a hybrid work arrangement, you will be responsible for the technical release, GD&T alignment, validation, and implementation of checking fixtures, go/no-go gauges, and CMM holding fixtures used for vehicle component dimensional quality control.
In this role, you will bridge the gap between Component Design Engineers, Stamping/Molding Suppliers, Tooling Vendors, and Assembly Plant Quality teams—ensuring that all dimensional inspection tools meet strict OEM standards, measurement repeatability (GR&R), and production launch timelines.
Key Responsibilities
1. Fixture Design Review & CAD Release
Review and approve 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings for checking fixtures, attributes gauges, and CMM holding fixtures provided by external tooling vendors.
Ensure fixture designs accurately reflect component GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), datum schemes (PLP/RPS points), clamping sequences, and clearance envelopes.
Apply Design for Manufacturability and Ergonomics to ensure fixtures are lightweight, durable, easy to load, and safe for operator use on the plant floor.
2. Validation, Quality & Gauge R&R Testing
Coordinate physical dimensional validation and buy-off of checking fixtures at vendor facilities and assembly plants.
Oversee Gauge Repeatability and Reproducibility (GR&R) studies, CMM correlation studies, and bias/linearity analyses to ensure fixture measurement accuracy.
Support root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys) for dimensional discrepancies between fixture readings, CMM data, and physical component geometry.
3. Change Management & Release Documentation
Manage technical documentation releases, including Fixture Build Specifications, Maintenance Manuals, CMM Inspection Reports, and Calibration Schedules.
Create and process Change Notices (CNs/ECNs) to update fixture geometry whenever component engineering changes occur.
Issue Tool Kick-Off (TKO) approvals, manage Source Package releases, and issue Interim Approval Authorizations (IAAs) for temporary quality gauges.
4. Supplier & Assembly Plant Support
Serve as the primary technical contact between fixture suppliers, Component DREs, and Quality Engineers at local assembly plants (e.g., Toluca OEM facilities).
Perform on-site visits to tooling suppliers and assembly plants for fixture try-outs, pilot builds, and final sign-offs.
Profil
Qualifications & Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automotive Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
Experience: 1–3 years of experience in automotive quality engineering, metrology, tooling design, or dimensional control (internships or co-op experience in automotive plant environments considered).
Technical Knowledge:
Fundamental understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5 / ISO 1101), datum reference frames, and tolerance stack-up basics.
Basic-to-intermediate proficiency in 3D CAD software (CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX, or SolidWorks) for reviewing, measuring, and modifying 3D models.
Basic understanding of metrology concepts, CMM inspection methodologies, and Gauge R&R evaluation.
Process Familiarity: Basic knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and automotive engineering change processes.
Languages: Intermediate to Advanced English (written and spoken) to interact with global engineering teams and vendors.
Work Availability: Ability to work in a Hybrid scheme based in Toluca, with flexibility to perform local plant visits and vendor audits in the Toluca/CDMX industrial corridor.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with sheet metal stamping, injection molded plastics, or body-in-white (BIW) assembly quality control.
Familiarity with OEM-specific checking fixture standards (e.g., Stellantis, GM, Ford, or Volkswagen fixture guidelines).
Key Competencies
Dimensional Precision: High attention to detail regarding GD&T symbols, measurement units, and tight tolerances.
Proactivity & Ownership: Drive to follow up with suppliers and quality technicians to keep tool build schedules on track.
Cross-Functional Communication: Ability to translate complex GD&T requirements between product designers and hands-on toolmakers.