Job Description

The Preprogram Design Release Engineer is responsible for synthesizing program requirements with advanced theme styling, ensuring feasibility and alignment with cost, weight, and complexity targets. This role supports early-phase decision-making, oversees initial CAD and design practices, and manages technical documentation during sourcing to enable robust style freeze and program execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Synthesize program requirements (financial, weight, complexity) with theme styling.
• Evaluate advanced themes against program assumptions and escalate incompatibilities.
• Support In/Out/Explo decision-making using standard decision matrices focused on quality, cost, timing, and performance.
• Define part breakup and assembly sequence for the Program of Record (POR).
• Develop source packages including PBOM, eBOM, tech sheets, and DVP&R.
• Support technical reviews, supplier evaluations, and rate assessments.
• Oversee development of master sections and initial 3D CAD releases.
• Manage design practice analysis and resolve critical issues.
• Maintain issue logbooks and present top issues to management weekly.
• Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure timely and accurate deliverables.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in automotive product development or design engineering.
• Proficiency in PLM systems such as Teamcenter
• Familiarity with CAD tools such as CATIA or NX for reviewing and interpreting designs.
• Strong understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles.
• Knowledge of automotive interior component manufacturing processes, including injection molding, plastic welding, foaming, vacuum forming, and thermoforming.
• Experience with Bill of Materials (PBOM/eBOM) management and technical documentation.
• Ability to interpret feasibility criteria for styling and engineering integration.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to resolve design issues.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Ability to manage supplier interactions and support technical reviews.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related discipline.
• Experience in preprogram or advanced engineering phases within automotive OEM or Tier 1 supplier.
• In-plant experience including tool tryouts, assembly and program launch
• Familiarity with style freeze processes and theme evaluation.