Design and Release Engineer-Driveshafts

Ford Motor • Livonia, MI

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life. We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more! In this position... You will lead the design, development, and release of innovative engineering solutions to significantly enhance the performance, efficiency, and durability of the drive shafts. The D&R Engineer is responsible for managing product release CAD and BOM structures, including assembly positioning and mass attribute analysis. This role also includes facilitating supplier data integration and developing CAD studies to support and drive design improvements. The D&R Engineer is expected to understand and effectively utilize product check-in/check-out processes, version control, data release, and change management within Ford’s PLM ecosystem. The D&R Engineer will perform feasibility analyses using CAD tools, including draft angle analysis, undercut detection, minimum bend radius validation for sheet metal, and clearance checks to support manufacturing and machining requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 2 years of experience with driveshafts in an automotive domain or similar including internships, co-ops and SAE.
• 1 year of CAD experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant engineering software tools for simulation, analysis, and modeling (e.g., CAD, CAE software).
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment and effectively collaborate with diverse cross-functional teams.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with performance and durability testing, including both dynamometer and in-vehicle validation.
• Robust understanding and application of Systems Engineering principles.
• Familiarity with Ford's Design and Release Tools, such as WERS, Teamcenter, FEDE, ED&T, and processes including DVP, DFMEA, Quality History, and Warranty Analysis.
• Proven strong problem-solving abilities and a creative approach to developing innovative engineering solutions.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to travel occasionally (estimated less than 10%).

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and release of innovative engineering solutions to significantly enhance the performance, efficiency, and durability of the drive shafts.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with Design, Manufacturing, Quality, and other engineering teams to ensure seamless integration and successful implementation of new technologies and processes.
• Manage and oversee rigorous testing and validation protocols, guaranteeing the highest levels of reliability, safety, and compliance for the transfer cases.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis and provide critical technical insights to inform strategic product improvements and optimizations.
• Maintain expert-level knowledge of the latest automotive industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory landscapes pertinent to transfer case systems.
• Actively participate in and contribute to design reviews, technical meetings, and comprehensive project planning sessions.
• Serve as a technical resource, leading the resolution of complex engineering issues and mentoring other team members.
• Deliver to cost and quality targets that help customers experience the best of their vehicles.

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
• Tuition assistance
• Established and active employee resource groups
• Paid time off for individual and team community service
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level