Trim Engineer

INDIANA MILLS & MANUFACTURING INC•Westfield, IN

21h•Onsite

About The Position

IMMI is seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Trim Engineer. The Trim Engineer supports the design, development, and implementation of IMMI's soft trim components, including cut-and-sew covers, parts, and assemblies, for seating and occupant safety systems. The role participates in key phases of the trim development process, including concept development, pattern creation, material evaluation, design validation, documentation, supplies interaction and launch support. Working closely with Product Engineering, Industrial Design, Manufacturing, Quality, and suppliers, the Trim Engineer helps ensure trim solutions meet requirements for safety, quality, cost, performance, and manufacturability. The role also assists with the Craftsmanship Appearance Sign-Off (CASO) process, product validation activities, and post-launch quality reviews. Success in this role is demonstrated through effective execution of assigned engineering activities, collaboration across functional teams, timely completion of deliverables, and continuous support of product and process improvements throughout the development lifecycle.

Requirements

Associates degree in Textile Engineering, Industrial Design, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field; Equivalent experience (3-5+ years in trim development may be considered in lieu of a degree)
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in soft trim and foam development, including cut-and-sew component design and foam skiving, with expertise in A-surface management
Proven record of full project lifecycle ownership, from Phase 0 to production launch, and Trim cover development.
Experience working with automotive and commercial seating systems, including material specifications and manufacturing integration.
Proficient in pattern development (both paper and digital), cut-and-sew construction, and trim material selection (e.g., vinyl, leather, foam, fabric).
Knowledgeable in foam sculpting, surface aesthetics, and trim attachment techniques
Familiarity with DVP&R, DFMEA, DFM/A, APQP, PPAP, and control plan documentation
Skilled in interpreting engineering drawings, applying GD&T, and developing appearance standards
Strong understanding of ISO/TS16949, ISO 14000, and automotive compliance requirements (e.g., FMVSS, ECE)
Excellent verbal and written communication skills; confident in technical presentations and cross-functional meetings
High level of organizational skill, time management, and ability to manage multiple projects in parallel
Demonstrated success in mentoring co-workers, driving quality outcomes, and executing continuous improvement
Willingness and ability to travel domestically or internationally as needed to support suppliers, customers, or production sites
Advanced English (essential).
CAD Software: SolidWorks and CATIA, – for 3D modeling
Pattern Design: Optitex PDS, AccuMark and Lectra, – for 2D/3D trim patterns and digital sewing layouts
PLM Systems: Oracle Fusion, Teamcenter, Trim PDM – for BOMs, design revisions, and document control
DFMEA / PFMEA – for design and process risk assessments
DVP&R – for design verification and validation planning
APQP / PPAP Templates – for product and process approvals
Material Test Equipment – for seam strength, abrasion, and flammability (FMVSS 302)
Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) – for reporting and documentation
Sewing Equipment Interfaces – for programming and monitoring stitching accuracy
Manual Trim Tools – foam skiving, hand trimming, and pattern grading
Use and take care of the personal protective equipment provided by the company, for the different activities carried out.
Attend and actively participate in health and safety training.
Comply with the different processes, procedures and regulations of Occupational Health and Safety established.
Report any unsafe acts or conditions.
Report any security incidents.
Actively participate in incident investigations when required.

Responsibilities

Support design and production implementation of soft trim components, ensuring compliance with engineering specs, customer requirements, and regulatory standards.
Develop and release trim cover drawings and patterns using cut-and-sew construction techniques.
Follow and maintain sewing specifications and appearance standards for all trim parts and assemblies.
Develop and manage bills of materials (eBOM) for prototypes and production, identifying tooling and compliance requirements.
Prepare and manage comprehensive project plans outlining key deliverables, including: Trim development timelines, eBOMs with preliminary usage and utilization rates, Trim patterns, drawings, and master appearance samples, Trim specifications and retainer/attachment concepts, CASO process initiation and documentation.
Provide initial cost analysis and quoting support for soft trim components and sub-assemblies.
Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to train/optimize sewing processes, layouts, and support troubleshooting.
Coordinate with suppliers to evaluate materials, tooling readiness, and construction methods.
Maintain effective communication with internal teams and external partners to ensure timely and accurate deliverables.
Create and maintain essential documentation including DFMEA, DVP&R, APQP, and PPAP records.
Support IMMI’s Quality Management System and ensure adherence to ISO/TS 16949 and ISO 14000 standards.
Conduct post-launch quality audits and participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions.
Review design information to confirm quality, completeness, and compliance with IMMI requirements.
Uphold health, safety, and environmental standards, participating in investigations and reporting as needed.
Manage inventory and ordering of soft trim development materials across programs.
Identify opportunities for process improvements and lead implementation efforts.