Innovation Engineer (Cockpit & Trim)

Ford • Dearborn, MI

14h • $65,100 - $166,200 • Hybrid

About The Position

We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.
• Solid background in developing automotive interior parts, specifically in Cockpits, Trim, or Displays.
• Deep understanding of the Product Development (PD) process from initial concept to the assembly line.
• Experience leading Design Thinking sessions and using innovation frameworks to drive team output.

Nice To Haves

• A Master’s Degree or Certification in Innovation Management is preferred.
• A good record of patent disclosures that have been successfully implemented in vehicles is highly desired.
• Proven ability to deliver efficient design solutions that reduce complexity and cost through a Keep It Simple methodology.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Cockpit, Trim, and Displays Global Innovation Council.
• Run Design Thinking sessions and clinics to solve interior challenges with a customer-centric focus.
• Propose and update the Innovation Learning Pathway for the global engineering community.
• Research new technologies in automotive and outside industries (electronics, aerospace, etc.).
• Organize technology shows with current and new suppliers at all global sites.
• Monitor competitor interiors to identify gaps and opportunities for leadership.
• Work with Marketing and Program teams to ensure ideas reach production vehicles.
• Feed innovation concepts into the workstream at Pre-PS stages.
• Apply a Keep It Simple approach to maximize output and ensure design solutions are efficient and easy to manufacture.
• Identify unique ideas and write Innovation Disclosures for review with Attorneys.
• Monitor part reduction, cost savings, and manufacturing improvements for every implemented idea.
• Turn successful local improvements into global best practices.

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