Manager, Transmission System Architecture

Ford • Livonia, MI

16h • Hybrid

About The Position

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world together. At Ford, we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves?
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...
Powertrain Architect Manager defines, designs, and integrates vehicle propulsion systems (ICE, hybrid, EV), translating performance goals into component requirements, leading trade-off studies, collaborating cross-functionally (suppliers, vehicle teams), managing system architecture, and driving innovation for efficiency, performance, and cost, focusing heavily on electrification and advanced technologies. Will own the system's lifecycle from concept through release, ensuring seamless integration and adherence to vehicle targets.

Requirements

• BS in Mechanical, Industrial, or Electrical Engineering or a related field required
• 5+ years of experience with Design and Release processes
• 10+ Years of automotive experience
• Formal Systems Engineering knowledge to solve complex problems
• Systems Engineering: Deep expertise in systems engineering principles, including P-diagrams, DFMEA, and functional safety.
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, electric motors, battery systems, and traditional ICE components.
• Tools: Proficiency in MBSE tools, CAD/CAE simulation environments, and data analysis platforms.
• Demonstrated strong foundation in FMA processes and documentation
• Has prior experience in Components and Systems design and processes
• Has proven delivery of balanced Quality/Cost/Weight/Function/Timing attributes for components or subsystems
• A clear communicator and highly motivated to exceed expectations in a constantly changing product landscape

Nice To Haves

• INCOSE CSEP certification or equivalent preferred
• Versed in UML and SysML modeling languages preferred
• Basic software writing in Python or Groovy preferred
• Model Based System Engineering development utilizing MagicDraw/3DX toolkit preferred
• Experienced in analyzing a descriptive model to assist in complex decision making preferred
• Masters in product development or other Engineering degree preferred

Responsibilities

• System Definition & Requirements: Defines overall powertrain architecture, power flow, efficiency, and key component requirements (battery, motor, controller, transmission).
• Performance & Integration: Leads system trade-off studies (cost, weight, function) and ensure seamless integration with vehicle systems.
• Technology & Innovation: Drives development of advanced propulsion solutions, stay updated on trends, and contribute to technology roadmaps.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborates with mechanical, thermal, software, and supplier teams for robust execution.
• Modeling & Simulation: Uses high-fidelity simulation tools to predict behavior and validate models.
• Testing & Validation: Plans and supports system validation activities to meet targets and standards.
• Drives engineering excellence through strict enforcement of Failure Mode Avoidance tools
• Documentation & Governance: Creates system documentation (architecture diagrams, functional specs) and govern system-level requirements.
• Lead a department of supervisors, engineers, and technical specialists responsible for delivering component design and release activities globally
• Understands upfront design, verification plans and methods, and industrialization processes for various underbody components
• Works with purchasing and suppliers to deliver high quality component designs with best cost, weight, and function
• Understands and can lead a team through GPDS program gateways and deliverables including design, sourcing, prototype procurement, analytical/physical validation, and PPAP in support of multiple global programs concurrently
• Develops strategic commodity plans for responsible components
• Manages areas of headcount, spending, travel, and purchased service budgets
• Participates in all hiring within sections including meeting head count models as well as building a strong and diverse skill team

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up childcare 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: Manager