Assistant Chief Engineer

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Assistant Chief Engineer (ACE) serves as a senior technical leader responsible for guiding vehicle systems development from concept through launch within an automotive OEM environment. This role ensures engineering excellence, cross‑functional alignment, and delivery of program targets across performance, quality, cost, timing, and regulatory compliance. The ACE acts as the technical authority for assigned systems and supports the Chief Engineer in strategic decision‑making, risk management, and program execution.

WHAT YOU GET TO DO

• Lead system‑level engineering strategy for assigned vehicle domains (e.g., chassis, body, propulsion, electrical, ADAS, or interiors).

• Define and validate system architecture, interfaces, and performance requirements.

• Oversee DFMEA, DVP&R, CAE, and validation planning to ensure robust engineering execution.

• Ensure compliance with global regulatory standards, homologation requirements, and internal engineering specifications.

• Drive technical issue resolution using structured problem‑solving methodologies (8D, A3, root cause analysis).

• Evaluate new technologies, materials, and suppliers to support innovation and competitive advantage.

Program Responsibilities

• Support the Chief Engineer in delivering program objectives across cost, weight, performance, and timing.

• Lead cross‑functional engineering reviews, gateway readiness assessments, and technical alignment meetings.

• Manage engineering deliverables across internal teams, suppliers, and manufacturing partners.

• Oversee prototype build readiness, launch support, and engineering change management.

• Track program risks, develop mitigation plans, and escalate critical issues when necessary.

• Ensure engineering documentation accuracy, including BOM integrity, change notices, and release packages.

Cross‑Functional Leadership

• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to ensure design‑for‑assembly and design‑for‑manufacturing compliance.

• Collaborate with Purchasing and Supplier Quality to evaluate suppliers and resolve technical issues.

• Work with Program Management to maintain alignment on timing, resources, and program priorities.

• Coordinate with Quality, Service, and Warranty teams to address field issues and implement corrective actions.

• Engage with Finance to support cost‑reduction initiatives and value‑engineering activities.

• Represent engineering in executive reviews, technical forums, and customer‑facing discussions when required.

Engineering Deliverables

• System requirements and specifications

• DFMEA and PFMEA inputs

• DVP&R creation and execution oversight

• CAE analysis reviews and correlation plans

• Prototype and production build support

• Technical reports, validation summaries, and sign‑off documentation

• Engineering change management and release approvals

WHAT YOU BRING

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, or related engineering field

• 10+ years of automotive engineering experience, including system ownership or technical leadership

• Strong understanding of vehicle development processes (V‑model, APQP, gated program structures)

• Proficiency with CAD, CAE, and PLM systems (e.g., CATIA, NX, Teamcenter)

• Deep knowledge of automotive regulatory standards (FMVSS, ECE, EPA, CARB, ISO, etc.)

• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional engineering teams

• Experience with supplier management and global development environments

Preferred Technical Expertise

• Master’s degree in Engineering or MBA

• Experience in EV propulsion, battery systems, ADAS, or software‑defined vehicle architectures

• Background in lean product development or systems engineering (INCOSE certification a plus)

• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies

• Experience launching vehicles in multiple global markets

• Strong financial acumen related to cost modeling and value engineering

Behavioral Competencies

• Strategic thinking and technical judgment

• Strong communication and executive‑level presentation skills

• Ability to influence without authority

• Structured problem‑solving mindset

• High level of accountability and ownership

• Collaborative leadership style

• Adaptability in fast‑paced, ambiguous environments

Work Conditions

• Primarily office and engineering lab environment

• Frequent interaction with manufacturing plants, suppliers, and test facilities

• Occasional travel (domestic and international) to support builds, supplier reviews, and validation activities

• Ability to support off‑shift or weekend activities during critical launch phases

Standard Disclaimer

This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required. The company reserves the right to modify job responsibilities or requirements as needed.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

• Safety First

• Delight Customers

• One Team

• Relentless Improvement

• Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy

• Respectful Collaboration

• Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

[email protected].