Product Development Engineer – Engine Components

Ford • Dearborn, MI

5d • $74,300 - $166,200 • Hybrid

About The Position

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, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Component Engineering Leader to drive the design, development, and release of base engine components for the 6.7L diesel engine program. This role is responsible for the full lifecycle of critical base engine subsystems from initial concept and program assumptions through final production sign-off. As a key technical leader, the candidate will coordinate cross-functional component interactions, interface with vehicle program teams, and ensure system integration meets performance, durability, and quality targets. Responsibilities and specific subsystem ownership will align with the candidate’s expertise and team needs while supporting upcoming model year programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Minimum of 3 years of Design & Release (D&R) experience within an engineering or product development environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders, lead technical discussions, and effectively present to leadership
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex supplier relationships in a fast-paced environment
• Strong program management and execution skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities, coordinate complex projects, and deliver results aligned with performance, timing, and cost targets
• The D&R Engineer is expected to understand and effectively utilize product check-in/check-out processes, version control, data release, and change management within Ford’s PLM ecosystem.

Nice To Haves

• Proven delivery of balanced Quality, Cost, Weight and Functional attributes for components / sub-systems.
• Utilization of Six Sigma tools & problem-solving tools. (8D’s, 3 legged 5 Why’s, etc.)
• Knowledge of functions and components of an internal combustion engine
• Knowledge of GD&T / dimensional control, PPAP and APQP principals.
• Prior experience executing effective quality documentation (i.e. FMEA’s, Control Plans, SCCAF’s, etc.)
• Knowledge of NVH, Materials, Durability, and Manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and release of base engine components, ensuring alignment with performance, cost, weight, and functional targets
• Drive forward model product development, including concept definition, system architecture, and pre-program planning
• Manage engineering changes, drawing releases, and WERS coordination (alerts, notices, concerns)
• Serve as CPMT Lead, owning subsystem delivery, cross-functional alignment, and achievement of program milestones
• Lead and support key program forums (EPMT, DPMT, design reviews, change control)
• Develop and execute DVP&R, including validation planning, testing, analysis, and formal sign-off
• Support robust engineering validation to ensure durability, performance, and compliance
• Lead cross-functional integration with calibration, purchasing, suppliers, and manufacturing to ensure system compatibility and vehicle readiness
• Serve as primary technical interface with suppliers and STA, ensuring design feasibility, timing, and manufacturability
• Coordinate prototype builds and manage vehicle integration, including Engine-as-Shipped and Engine-as-Installed releases
• Drive resolution of design, manufacturing, and launch issues using structured problem-solving
• Develop and maintain quality and CPMT documentation (DFMEA, PPAP, PSW, ESOW, etc.)
• Lead engine and powerpack quality metrics and ensure successful launch performance
• Support strategic initiatives, future program planning, and continuous improvement efforts across powertrain engineering

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: Senior