Design/Release Engineer - Transfer Case

Stellantis•Auburn Hills, MI

About The Position

The Transfer Case Design/Release Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and validation of transfer case assemblies, including active and part-time systems, high- and low-range systems, and mechanical or electrical shifters. The role applies automotive and driveline engineering expertise to optimize designs and improve performance and reliability, leading projects from concept through production and working closely with cross-functional teams. The engineer also oversees transfer-case component and system integration, validation, supplier design approvals, technical documentation, and continuous improvement. The position includes providing technical direction and mentoring to other driveline engineers, reducing warranty costs, and presenting design reviews and project updates to stakeholders.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
At least 5 years of automotive engineering experience focused on driveline systems.
Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for resolving technical issues and optimizing designs.
Strong knowledge of driveline components and systems, including transfer cases, axles, prop-shafts and half-shafts, front axle disconnects, gear reducers, and actuators.
Good knowledge of software and controls development and vehicle integration for actuating components.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes for driveline assemblies, castings, machining, and forgings.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; adaptability to work across multiple programs; a proactive, results-driven approach.
Understanding of root cause analysis tools such as fishbone analysis, Is-Is Not, 3L5Y, and Red X.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in engineering.
DFSS Green Belt certification.
Working-level experience decomposing intended function into requirements.
Experience with in-vehicle problem diagnosis and NVH evaluations.
Knowledge of CAE/CFD for collaboration with virtual analysis teams.
Experience with assembly and computer-aided design tools such as NX or CATIA.
Experience with Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA).
Experience with Design Verification Plan and Report (DVP&R).
Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Action-oriented, comfortable dealing with ambiguity, customer-focused, and skilled in problem solving.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of transfer cases and components, including interfaces, chains, shafts, bearings, sealing systems, output flanges, fasteners, planetary gears, wet clutches, shift collars, forks, synchronizers, motors, and actuators.
Ensure software is fully integrated with the vehicle.
Collaborate with CAE, NVH, durability, vehicle dynamics, packaging, and manufacturing teams to support integration and performance.
Develop and execute DVP&R validation plans, including component, system, bench, and vehicle testing, to verify driveline performance and durability.
Identify and resolve driveline technical issues using root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques.
Drive supplier design-selection approvals through appropriate assessments and engineering best practices.
Create, implement, and manage engineering best practices, including core DFMEA and DVP documents for driveline systems.
Work with Supplier Quality and suppliers to develop robust PFMEA and control plans that support capable processes and minimize warranty issues.
Identify opportunities to improve designs, processes, and products through innovative solutions and best practices.
Generate detailed system and subsystem technical specifications (SSTS/TTS) and manage alignment of requirements with suppliers.
Mentor and provide technical direction to other driveline engineers.
Identify opportunities to reduce total warranty costs and propose technical solutions.
Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project updates to stakeholders.
Monitor advancements in driveline technologies and incorporate innovative solutions into product designs.