Sr. Chassis Driveline Engineer

Hyundai Motor Company • Ann Arbor, MI

20d

About The Position

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is seeking a Senior Engineer to join its collaborative Chassis Engineering Design Team. The role leads the design, development, and validation of chassis driveline systems for U.S. SUVs, pickup trucks, and off-road vehicles, creating robust, high-performance driveline architectures that meet customer, durability, and reliability requirements. The engineer works with cross-functional teams and suppliers to integrate systems, solve technical issues, and deliver production-ready designs. The team emphasizes open communication, continuous learning, hands-on engineering, mentorship, initiative, and technical excellence.

The position covers driveline components and systems including 4WD and AWD systems, transfer cases, power transfer units, axles, half-shafts, prop shafts, driveshafts, and differentials. Responsibilities include design and analysis, validation planning and testing, data analysis, root-cause investigation, systems integration, supplier coordination, standards compliance, CAD modeling and documentation, and mentoring junior engineers. The role also supports innovation and continuous improvement in driveline efficiency, durability, and functionality. Travel may be up to 20% domestically and internationally.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of professional experience in chassis and suspension design, focused on driveline systems.
• In-depth understanding of vehicle ride and handling, off-road performance, and NVH for heavy-duty trucks and SUVs.
• Working knowledge of vehicle body and NVH performance.
• Knowledge of solid axle and independent suspension systems in off-road conditions.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 and ability to create complex part models, assemblies, and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T.
• Experience using engineering tools to create and modify 2D and 3D drawings.
• Familiarity with PDM or PLM systems such as ENOVIA V6 or Windchill.
• Ability to perform detailed component design and analytical calculations related to strength, fatigue, and performance.
• Knowledge of mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering design and processes, as well as tooling design variables, processes, and materials.
• Innovative thinking and proactive approaches to chassis component technical direction.
• Ability to explain technical topics to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word, and ability to prepare project reports and spreadsheets.
• Flexibility with program and process changes, including late changes to satisfy customer needs.
• Excellent time-management, self-management, organization, written, oral, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills, including diagnosing complex issues and developing robust solutions under tight timelines with adjacent teams.
• Willingness to attend training sessions, workshops, or conferences to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility will be verified at hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience specifically with pickup trucks, SUVs, or off-road vehicles and knowledge of their driveline systems, durability, setup, and articulation.
• Experience working on electric or hybrid vehicle suspension systems.
• Familiarity with other CAD software such as CATIA V6, NX, or SolidWorks.
• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency with CAE tools such as ANSYS, Nastran, and MATLAB/Simulink for suspension modeling, dynamic simulations, or product optimization.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or Six Sigma certification.
• Experience with vehicle program launches from concept to production.
• Project management experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering design and development of driveline systems and components for 4WD and AWD vehicles, including transfer cases, power transfer units, and related mechanisms.
• Design and develop axle assemblies and shaft components, including solid rear axles, front and rear half-shafts, prop shafts, and driveshafts, to meet torque, off-road, weight, and durability goals.
• Engineer front and rear differential systems, including limited-slip, torque-vectoring, and electronic-locking differentials, to optimize traction, handling, and stability.
• Define, support, and execute DVP&R test plans; support bench, dynamometer, and on-road and off-road vehicle testing; analyze results and drive design improvements.
• Monitor and troubleshoot driveline issues during development, conduct root-cause analysis, and implement design or process changes to resolve failures and performance gaps.
• Collaborate with Vehicle Dynamics, Suspension, Powertrain, NVH, Manufacturing, and Quality teams on packaging, interfaces, and vehicle systems integration.
• Coordinate with OEM and Tier 1 suppliers; review and validate supplier designs and design changes, oversee supplier development, and support sourcing and manufacturing activities.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable FMVSS and SAE standards and incorporate requirements into specifications and validation plans.
• Create and maintain engineering documentation, CATIA V5 3D models and 2D drawings, GD&T, technical specifications, DFMEAs, design review materials, and engineering reports.
• Mentor junior engineers and facilitate on-the-job learning.
• Keep current with driveline and off-road vehicle technologies; propose improvements and lead or contribute to advanced engineering projects.
• Travel domestically and internationally up to 20% of the time.

Benefits

• Zero-dollar employee premiums on medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and family.
• 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and abundant holidays.
• Competitive salaries.
• Global environment that fosters diversity.
• Retirement savings and planning benefits.
• Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.
• Flexible work hours.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior