Design Leader

Faurecia; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Forvia is seeking a Design Leader to oversee the complete design process from concept to customer release. You will deliver fully developed CAD models and prints aligned with project milestones, specifications, and customer requirements.

You will lead cross‑functional teams across packaging, KPCs, DCS application, and DFM reviews to ensure data quality and on‑time delivery. The role requires a bachelor’s degree with 5 years of experience (or a mechanical engineering degree) and proficiency in

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 5 years of experience or Mechanical Engineering degree with product development experience.
• Proficiency in CAD tools Catia V5, NX or Creo.
• Experience with PLM systems.
• Knowledge of primary manufacturing methods.
• Strong communication and teamwork with an international mindset.

Responsibilities

• Develop system packaging concepts and product layouts.
• Lead and coordinate design activities within programs.
• Ensure consistency across systems and components.
• Maintain alignment between internal and customer PLM systems.
• Collaborate with design teams to meet milestones.
• Adhere to DCS, GD and CAD quality standards.
• Manage CAD data exchanges with customers and suppliers.
• Oversee Engineering BOM and design studies as needed.
• Participate in weekly APQP meetings and cross‑functional reviews.
• Drive continuous design improvement through collaboration.

Skills

Strong communication

Team collaboration

International mindset

Education

Bachelor’s degree or Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

CATIA V5

NX

Creo

Job description

Forvia, a sustainable mobility technology leader

We pioneer technology for mobility experience that matter to people.

Your mission, roles and responsibilities

The Design Leader oversees the complete design process from initial concept through final customer release. This role is accountable for delivering fully developed CAD models and prints that align with project milestones, product and process specifications, and customer requirements. Responsibilities are divided into two main areas: design activities and cross‑functional collaboration.

Design Activities

• Develop system packaging concepts and overall product layouts
• Lead and coordinate Design activities within assigned programs
• Ensure consistency across systems, sub‑systems, and components
• Maintain alignment between internal and customer PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems
• Collaborate with design teams to meet customer milestones
• Ensure proper use and compliance with DCS (Design Check Sheet), GD (Generic Drawings), and CAD quality standards
• Manage CAD data exchanges with customers and suppliers
• Oversee and maintain the Engineering Bill of Materials (EBOM)
• Conduct design studies as requested by the Product Development Leader (PDL) and Product Experts
• Ensure all data delivered to the customer meets internal and customer standards

Cross‑Functional Team Engagement

• Participate in packaging reviews and formal customer events
• Help define critical characteristics (KPC – Key Product Characteristics; KCC – Key Control Characteristics)
• Conduct customer‑requested design studies
• Collaborate with Product Development Leader (PDL) and Product Experts on TOP5 priorities
• Partner with Product Experts on DCS application and deviations
• Work with Process Experts on DFM (Design for Manufacturing) reviews
• Support Process Planning activities such as EDW (Equipment Design Workshop) and PFA (Process Flow Analysis)
• Participate in weekly APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) meetings
• Engage in prototype activities, including PPKO (Prototype Plant Kick‑Off)
• Drive continuous design improvement through cross‑functional collaboration
• Support 3D and 2D design and drawing reviews

Your profile and competencies to succeed

• A bachelor’s degree with 5 years of experience, or a Mechanical Engineering degree with relevant product development experience; automotive industry experience preferred
• Training and proficiency in program‑specific CAD tools (Catia V5, NX, Creo)
• Experience with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems
• Knowledge of primary manufacturing methods
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team
• An international mindset

What we can do for you

• At Forvia, you will find an engaging and dynamic environment where you can contribute to the development of sustainable mobility leading technologies.
• We are the seventh‑largest global automotive supplier, employing more than 157,000 people in more than 40 countries which makes a lot of opportunity for career development.
• We welcome energetic and agile people who can thrive in a fast‑changing environment. People who share our strong values. Team players with a collaborative mindset and a passion to deliver high standards for our clients. Lifelong learners. High performers. Globally minded people who aspire to work in a transforming industry, where excellence, speed, and quality count.
• We cultivate a learning environment, dedicating tools and resources to ensure we remain at the forefront of mobility. Our people enjoy an average of more than 22 hours of online and in‑person training within FORVIA University (five campuses around the world)
• We offer a multicultural environment that values diversity and international collaboration. We believe that diversity is a strength. To create an inclusive culture where all forms of diversity create real value for the company, we have adopted gender diversity targets and inclusion action plans.
• Achieving CO2 Net Zero as a pioneer of the automotive industry is a priority: In June 2022, Forvia became the first global automotive group to be certified with the new SBTI Net‑Zero Standard (the most ambitious standard of SBTi), aligned with the ambition of the 2015 Paris Agreement of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Three principles guide our action: use less, use better and use longer, with a focus on recyclability and circular economy.

Why join us

FORVIA, a global automotive technology supplier, comprises the complementary technology and industrial strengths of Faurecia and HELLA. With over 137 500 people, including more than 12,000 R&D engineers across 40+ countries, FORVIA provides a unique and comprehensive approach to the automotive challenges of today and tomorrow. Composed of 6 business groups and a strong IP portfolio of over 12,400 patents, FORVIA is focused on becoming the preferred innovation and integration partner for OEMs worldwide.

In 2025, the Group achieved a consolidated revenue of 26.2 billion euros prior to IFRS 5. FORVIA SE is listed on the Euronext Paris market under the FRVIA mnemonic code and is a component of the SBF 120 index.

FORVIA aims to be a change maker committed to foreseeing and making the mobility transformation happen. www.forvia.com