Sr Engineer, Interiors

Aptera Motors•Carlsbad, CA

13d

About The Position

The Senior Engineer, Interiors will lead engineering efforts across all interior systems of the Aptera vehicle, including the instrument panel, seating, door systems, overhead console, storage, trim panels, and human-machine interface (HMI) integration. Given Aptera's unique vehicle architecture — a lightweight, aerodynamically optimized three-passenger cabin — this role demands a blend of creative problem-solving, deep technical knowledge, and cross-functional collaboration. You will work closely with Industrial Design, Structures, Electrical, Software, and Manufacturing Engineering teams, as well as external Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, to define, develop, and validate interior components and assemblies. You will serve as the subject matter expert for interior systems throughout the product development cycle and mentor junior engineers within the team.

Requirements

Strong command of automotive interior engineering principles including materials, joining methods, sealing, and surface aesthetics.
Proficiency in 3D CAD (preferably CATIA V5/V6, NX, or SolidWorks) and experience with PLM systems such as Windchill or Teamcenter.
Solid understanding of GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and ability to perform tolerance stack-up analysis.
Experience with FMEA methodology and DVP&R documentation processes.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical findings to cross-functional audiences and leadership.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent engineering programs in a fast-paced, resource-constrained startup environment.
Collaborative, solution-oriented mindset with the drive to get things done without waiting for perfect conditions.
Minimum of 7 years of automotive interior engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a senior or lead engineer capacity.
Proven track record of taking interior systems from concept through production launch, including supplier development and PPAP sign-off.
Experience managing supplier development programs and negotiating engineering changes with Tier 1 interior suppliers.
Hands-on experience with physical prototype builds, fit-and-finish evaluations, and gap/flush assessments.
Track record of identifying and resolving systemic design or manufacturing issues through structured engineering processes.
Experience presenting design reviews, test results, and engineering status to senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Experience engineering interiors for low-volume or specialty vehicles, motorsport platforms, or aerospace cabin systems.
Familiarity with lightweight material systems including carbon fiber composites, natural fiber composites, bio-based foams, and sustainable textiles.
Background working with exterior-influenced or highly styled interior architectures where aerodynamic efficiency intersects with aesthetics.
Experience integrating solar panel systems or unconventional energy features into a vehicle cabin design.
Knowledge of FMVSS, CMVSS, and ECE interior safety regulations, including head impact, knee bolster, and occupant restraint requirements.
Exposure to Agile or rapid iteration product development methodologies.
Prior experience at an EV startup or emerging mobility company.
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Vehicle Engineering, or Human Factors Engineering.
In lieu of advanced degree, demonstrated engineering leadership experience and technical achievement may be considered.
Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end engineering development of interior systems, including seating, instrument panel, trim assemblies, headliner, door panels, center console, and storage compartments.
Define system architecture, functional requirements, and design intent for all interior components in collaboration with Industrial Design and Vehicle Engineering.
Own the GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis for interior assemblies to ensure proper fit, finish, and function across the vehicle build.
Drive Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) reviews with internal teams and suppliers to optimize part designs for producibility and cost.
Develop and execute test plans for interior systems, including structural, ergonomic, material durability, thermal, NVH, and regulatory compliance testing.
Manage supplier relationships for interior components, including RFQ, design reviews, tool kicks, PPAP, and production readiness milestones.
Create and maintain engineering documentation including specifications, DVP&Rs, BOM management, ECOs, and engineering change requests using PLM tools.
Collaborate with the Electrical and Software teams to integrate HMI elements, displays, lighting systems, and user control interfaces into the interior architecture.
Conduct ergonomics assessments and drive human factors decisions to ensure accessibility and comfort for diverse user demographics.
Identify and resolve interior system issues through structured root cause analysis and corrective action planning.
Support vehicle builds, prototype evaluations, and pre-production validation events on the manufacturing floor.
Provide technical mentorship to junior and mid-level interior engineers and serve as a resource across cross-functional project teams.