Component Design and Development Engineer

Socket.dev; Plymouth (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev in Plymouth, MI seeks a Component Engineer to drive automotive accessory development from concept through validation. You will collaborate with suppliers, manufacturing, and QA to ensure design integrity and compliance with industry standards, including IATF 16949.

The role emphasizes CAD proficiency (UG NX, CATIA, AutoCAD), GD&T knowledge, and hands-on experience with tooling and molding processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 1–3 years of manufacturing, engineering, or component development experience.
• Experience with CAD software UG NX and/or CATIA V5.
• Knowledge of GD&T principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead accessory development from feasibility evaluation to validation.
• Coordinate product quotations, technical planning, and development with sales and engineering.
• Develop components from customer drawings, ensuring design accuracy.
• Oversee supplier selection, accessory code applications, and standard conversions.
• Validate first-batch production samples against drawings and specs.
• Prepare technical reports and testing results for first article recognition.

Skills

English fluency

Mandarin (plus)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

UG NX

CATIA

Pro/E

Job description

Job Description

Position: Component Engineer

Classification: Exempt

Direct Supervisor: Design and Development Supervisor

Backup: Design and Development Manager

Related KPI

Summary/Objectives:

The Design & Development Component Engineer ensures the timely and accurate development, improvement, and validation of automotive accessories and components. This position plays a critical role in controlling product design and development processes while supporting the applicable sales area. The engineer will work closely with suppliers, manufacturing teams, and quality assurance to optimize product performance and compliance with industry standards.

Essential Functions:

1. Lead the development of accessories, from feasibility evaluation to final validation.
2. Conduct product quotations, technical planning, and development in coordination with sales and engineering teams.
3. Develop components based on customer drawings and specifications, ensuring accuracy in design and application.
4. Oversee supplier selection, accessory code applications, and standard conversions for new components.
5. Validate and approve first-batch production samples, ensuring alignment with drawings and specifications.
6. Assist procurement and quality assurance in supplier audits and QTS recognition.
7. Track accessory development progress, maintain accessory code catalogs, and manage sample production.
8. Prepare technical documents, inspection reports, and testing results for first article recognition.
9. Verify and optimize technical processes for accessory installation tools.
10. Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for accessory development and production.
11. Support cross-functional teams in continuous improvement initiatives, including:
12. Kaizen implementation
13. Cross-training efforts
14. Problem-solving and defect reduction
15. Participate in failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) to mitigate design risks.
16. Ensure compliance with relevant automotive industry standards, including IATF 16949.
17. Other duties as assigned.

Competencies:

1. Technical Skills:
   1. Strong knowledge of CAD software (AutoCAD, UG NX, CATIA, Pro/E).
   2. Experience with component design, mold structures, and processing technologies.
   3. Understanding of accessory bonding processes and vehicle glazing system components.
   4. Familiarity with polymer materials, small injection molding, and stamping die development.
2. Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:
   1. Ability to analyze engineering data and solve practical design and manufacturing challenges.
   2. Strong mathematical skills, including proficiency in unit conversions and cost analysis.
3. Project & Supplier Management:
   1. Experience in project management, APQP processes, and supplier development.
   2. Knowledge of raw materials, processing costs, and accessory manufacturing capabilities.
4. Industry Standards & Compliance:
   1. TS16949, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies.
   2. Understanding of five automotive reference manuals.
5. Communication & Collaboration:
   1. Fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking); Mandarin proficiency is a plus.
   2. Strong ability to interact effectively with team members, leadership, engineers, and customers.
   3. Experience in preparing technical reports and conducting training sessions.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to: stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The position involves sitting, walking, and lifting 15 pounds for long periods throughout the day.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, see Production Manager for hours. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Travel

Little travel is expected for this position.

Required Education and Experience:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field).
2. Experience with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software (UG NX and/or CATIA V5).
3. Knowledge of GD&T principles.
4. 1 to 3 years of experience in manufacturing, engineering, or component development.

Preferred Education and Experience:

1. Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
2. Bilingual in English and Chinese is plus

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.