Job Description

Job Purpose

The Application Engineer supports Light Vehicle Sealing programs by translating customer requirements into robust product designs, coordinating key APQP deliverables (e.g., DFMEA, DVP&R, issue tracking), and partnering with Validation and Manufacturing to enable successful launches. The role requires strong technical communication, disciplined documentation, and a continuous improvement mindset.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Support and promote a preventive safety culture throughout Dana.
• Support conceptual design, manufacturability, and validation activities for Light Vehicle Sealing product lines and new concepts.
• Communicate (in person, virtual, and written) with customer engineering during program development; support technical reviews, tech days, and design reviews as needed.
• Partner with Program Managers/Coordinators to support successful and timely customer launches; participate in Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE) activities.
• Create, maintain, and report status on key program documents:
• Design and engineering open-issues log (actions, owners, timing).
• Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA).
• Design Verification Plan & Report (DVP&R) and progress reporting.
• Program archive (e.g., design releases/approvals, requirements, test reports, lessons learned).
• Coordinate with the Validation group to execute validation per the DVP&R; develop test concepts to validate unique component features.
• Interface with manufacturing facilities to ensure designs meet manufacturing requirements and can be produced consistently.
• Participate in a culture of continual learning, continuous improvement, and cooperation.
• Maintain awareness of competitor activity relevant to Light Vehicle Sealing programs.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to present technical information clearly and concisely.
• 3–5 years automotive experience with internal combustion engine sealing; preferably cylinder head gaskets, exhaust gaskets, and secondary stamped metal gaskets.
• Working knowledge of gasket design fundamentals (e.g., load path/clamping, sealing beads/embossments, coatings) and stamped metal gasket manufacturing considerations.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T; capable of supporting tolerance stack-up/fit-function reviews and using 3D CAD/2D drafting to support concept development and release readiness.
• Experience supporting APQP deliverables (DFMEA, DVP&R) and familiarity with PPAP expectations for launch support.