DRE - Interior Accessories

ALTEN Technology USA•Troy, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

ALTEN Technology USA is seeking a Design Release Engineer (DRE) specializing in Interior Accessories. This role is focused on leading the design, development, and integration of interior accessory systems throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle. The DRE will serve as the primary liaison between engineering, design, manufacturing, and suppliers, ensuring that components meet all performance, quality, and regulatory standards. The position requires delivering customer-facing interior components, such as storage systems, trim, and speaker mounts, from the initial concept phase through to production, with a strong emphasis on system integration, validation, and launch readiness. This is a highly cross-functional role demanding strong technical ownership, a system-level perspective, and the ability to foster alignment among various stakeholders in a dynamic development setting. Experience with interior systems, plastic components, and product validation is crucial, with a preference for experience in startup or new vehicle programs.

Requirements

BS Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
5+ years of experience in automotive interior systems or accessories engineering
Strong experience in system integration and component development
Knowledge of plastic part design and injection molding
Experience with component validation and testing processes
Ability to read and work with CAD data (Catia V5 preferred)
Experience with PLM systems and engineering change processes
Understanding of regulatory requirements (FMVSS, NHTSA, etc.)
Strong cross-functional coordination and communication skills

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Experience in startup or new vehicle programs is a strong plus.
Experience in multiple interior component areas (trim, storage systems, speaker integration, etc.)
Catia V5 modeling skills
Experience in startup or new vehicle development environments
Familiarity with full APQP process

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end development and integration of interior accessory systems (storage bins, trim covers, speaker mounts, cassette trim, etc.)
Ensure system-level functionality, packaging compatibility, and interface alignment
Define and manage interfaces with cockpit, console, body structures, electrical, and restraints systems
Drive technical trade-offs and ensure optimized design solutions
Act as the main interface between design, engineering, manufacturing, safety, and validation teams
Collaborate with Studio, Body, NVH, Vehicle Dynamics, and Validation teams to meet vehicle-level requirements
Lead technical reviews with internal teams and suppliers
Drive issue resolution across all stakeholders
Work closely with suppliers to ensure design feasibility, quality, and timely delivery
Review and resolve design, packaging, and fitment issues
Ensure proper integration of hardware, joints, and attachment systems
Manage PPAP deliverables and component release processes
Define validation requirements and ensure components meet performance and regulatory standards (FMVSS, etc.)
Review test plans, setups, and results (internal and external validation)
Ensure robustness and reliability of components through DV/PV phases
Support prototype builds and vehicle integration activities
Ensure readiness for key program milestones and production launch
Track progress, risks, and deliverables throughout the development lifecycle
Ensure all documentation and engineering changes are properly managed (PLM)