Design & Release Engineer - Exterior Lighting

ALTEN Technology•Auburn Hills, MI

About The Position

As a Design & Release Engineer (DRE) for Exterior Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the development, validation, and industrialization of exterior lighting systems (e.g., headlamps, taillights, fog lamps, illuminated grilles, and sensors). This role combines design engineering with rigorous testing and release processes to ensure that lighting components meet performance, safety, regulatory, and cost targets. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams (optical, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers), suppliers, and manufacturing plants to deliver high-quality lighting solutions from concept to mass production. This position is ideal for engineers who enjoy both technical design and hands-on validation, with opportunities to grow into project leadership and supplier management.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
0–5 years of experience in automotive engineering (OEM or Tier 1), with exposure to design, testing, or release processes.
Proficiency in 3D/2D modeling tools (NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks).
Basic understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing).
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively (written and verbal).
Fluent in English (technical discussions).

Nice To Haves

Internships or co-op experience in lighting systems, electronics, or automotive components are a plus.
Familiarity with automotive lighting regulations (e.g., FMVSS, ECE) is a plus.
Knowledge of LED technology, optics, or thermal management is desirable.
Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
Experience with automotive exterior lighting development (e.g., headlamps, taillights).
Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, or validation in a manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of emerging lighting technologies (e.g., adaptive lighting, laser, matrix LED).
Proficiency in Italian, French, or German (for global collaboration).
Prior experience with supplier management or cross-functional project leadership.
Exposure to DFMEA, DVP&R, or Six Sigma (Green Belt certification is a plus).
Familiarity with PLM systems (Teamcenter, Windchill) is beneficial.

Responsibilities

Support the design of exterior lighting components (3D/2D modeling using NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks).
Assist in optimizing designs for performance, manufacturability, and cost efficiency.
Collaborate with optical and electrical teams to integrate lighting systems (LED, halogen, adaptive lighting) into vehicle architectures.
Contribute to system requirement definitions (e.g., optical performance, thermal management, regulatory compliance).
Work with suppliers to develop and iterate prototypes based on testing feedback.
Plan and execute Design Verification Plans (DVP&R) to validate lighting components against specifications.
Conduct functional and durability tests (e.g., environmental, thermal, vibration, and regulatory compliance tests).
Analyze test results and troubleshoot failures (e.g., using 8D reports, CPRT, or Quality Alert tools).
Ensure compliance with automotive lighting regulations (e.g., FMVSS, ECE, IIHS requirements).
Support vehicle-level validation (e.g., on-road testing, assembly plant evaluations).
Assist in managing engineering changes (Change Notices - CNs) and temporary/permanent deviations.
Coordinate with suppliers to implement DFMEAs and PFMEAs for risk mitigation.
Support pilot phases in manufacturing plants to ensure smooth production ramp-up.
Contribute to cost reduction initiatives (TCR/VO) without compromising quality or performance.
Work closely with purchasing, quality, and manufacturing teams to resolve technical issues.
Participate in supplier meetings to align on design, validation, and production timelines.
Support warranty investigations and continuous improvement activities.
Document technical decisions and share best practices with the engineering team.