Design Release Engineer

A Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for leading the design, release, and ongoing engineering management of assigned components-particularly vehicle seating systems-for OEM programs. The role requires close coordination with OEM platform teams, suppliers, internal engineering groups, and manufacturing plants.

Primary Responsibilities

* Lead engineering release activities for assigned parts (seats, trim, foam, etc. depending on program needs).

* Serve as the key engineering interface to OEM platform teams, supporting program timing, technical reviews, and issue resolution.

* Create, update, and release engineering documentation including:

* Drawings

* Specifications

* Change Requests (CRs)

* Change Orders (COs)

* Temporary Work Orders (TWOs)

* Support OEM release processes

* Participate in GM/Adient engineering change processes (ECR creation, validation plans, VCD attachments, DRBFM submissions).

* Manage timing, cost impacts, and coordination with Design System Engineers, Validation Engineers, and Program Engineering Managers.

* Travel to customer and supplier manufacturing sites for design reviews, issue resolution, and launch support.

Required Skills & Competencies

* Strong communication skills (verbal and written) for interfacing with OEM engineering and cross‑functional internal teams.

* Experience using release systems is a must; Highly preferred experience working in ECM / Edge

* Solid technical foundation in mechanical design, product development, problem solving, and requirements balancing.

* Knowledge of CAD systems such as Unigraphics/NX

* Strong analytical ability, especially in assessing risks, design constraints, manufacturability, and cost impacts.

* Ability to support fast‑paced program environments with hands‑on engineering ownership.

Education & Experience Requirements

* Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering preferred.

* Associate degree acceptable with sufficient relevant experience.

* Minimum 2 years experience in automotive seating, interiors, or product development.

* Direct OEM experience (particularly General Motors) is highly beneficial.

* Familiarity with GM tooling, eSOR requirements, CCC components, and seating program workflows is advantageous.

PRIMARY LOCATION

Central Tech Unit Plymouth MI