Senior Design Engineer, Mechanical EV

Blue Bird Careers•Fort Valley, GA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue - bird.com . JOB SUMMARY Reporting to the Manager, EV Design Engineering, the Senior Design Engineer, Mechanical, EV will lead the development and refinement of innovative mechanical design solutions for electric vehicle platforms. You will utilize advanced CAD software to create complex models and drawings, oversee prototype development, and lead formal design reviews. This position offers an excellent opportunity to drive critical vehicle programs, mentor junior engineers, and advance your technical career in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Requirements

Strong technical leadership capability with a proven track record of managing complex engineering projects independently to completion.
Advanced analytical and structural problem-solving skills (e.g., Root Cause Analysis, 8D methodologies).
Exceptional written and oral technical communication skills, with the ability to translate complex engineering logic for executive leadership and stakeholders.
Expert proficiency in advanced engineering software and tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MATLAB, or relevant CAE/PLM suites).
Deep understanding of medium/heavy-duty vehicle architectures, body-on-chassis platforms, and low- or zero-emission powertrain constraints.
Demonstrated ability to make rational, high-discernment decisions under pressure regarding component selection and downstream manufacturing impacts.
Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university
5+ years of progressive mechanical design engineering experience within an automotive, bus, or heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing (OEM) environment.
3+ years of direct hands-on experience specializing in EV powertrain integration, high-voltage battery packaging, or alternative propulsion platforms.
All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Nice To Haves

Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance
Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters.
Strong project management skills.
Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus.
Ability to influence stakeholders
Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner.
Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you.
Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.

Responsibilities

Lead the end-to-end design, development, and mechanical integration of EV powertrain architectures, battery systems, and related components.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and designers to optimize detailed models and engineering drawings.
Conduct complex engineering research and data analysis to drive critical architecture choices and project milestones.
Own the definition and implementation of comprehensive mechanical system and component specifications, including manufacturing, validation, and test documentation.
Ensure strict product compliance by interpreting and applying FMVSS, State, ADA, and customer requirements across all design releases.
Prepare and deliver executive-level technical documentation, engineering reports, and program presentations.
Facilitate and drive design reviews, establishing engineering best practices while delivering constructive, high-level troubleshooting and technical feedback.
Evaluate and introduce emerging industry trends, advanced materials, structural bonding methods (e.g., structural adhesives), and efficient manufacturing processes.
Lead cross-functional initiatives with Powertrain, Electrical, Manufacturing, Quality, and Purchasing teams to secure design feasibility and high-quality manufacturability.
Manage project priorities and assignments to completion, overseeing external engineering service providers or specialized supplier activities when required.
Perform other related duties as assigned.