Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Cockpit

Contechs Consulting Limited; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Contechs Consulting Limited is seeking a Design & Release Engineer (DRE) – Interior Cockpit in Troy, MI on a contract basis. The role focuses on leading cockpit component development, validation, and integration to meet FMVSS and program targets.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in cockpit systems with 5+ years in automotive engineering and PLM release experience, plus collaboration across cross-functional teams to ensure timely launches and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive cockpit system engineering.
• Experience with FMVSS/IIHS and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead cockpit components development, validation and integration (bins, trims, glove box, IP panels).
• Coordinate with safety departments to complete testing per DVP, FMVSS, and system targets.
• Ensure PPAP documentation and packaging/interface compatibility across cockpit systems.

Skills

Cockpit systems

FMVSS validation

PLM release

Regulatory knowledge

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Office suite

Job description

Position: Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Cockpit

Sector: Interior & Exterior Systems

Location: Troy Michigan, USA

*Applicants MUST have proof of immediate, on-going and valid eligibility to work full time in the United States*

About the company

My client is an innovative American automotive manufacturer focused on redefining affordable electric mobility. They are developing a new generation of purpose-built electric vehicles with an emphasis on simplicity, modular design, and customer customisation.

They are looking for a Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Cockpit to join their expanding team on a Contract basis. The role will be located in Troy Michigan, USA.

Job Description:

• Our Client is looking for a dynamic, experienced DRE – Interior Cockpit to join their growing team.
• This role will be responsible for leading the Cockpit components development, validation and integration of cockpit trim components including IP carrier, PAB chutes, bins, glove box, and finish trim for the Clients’ Vehicles ensuring that cockpit trim target performance and features, as well as FMVSS requirements, are met.
• The individual will be responsible for understanding the vehicle’s technical specifications and performance targets.
• Utilizing the APQP process and supporting documentation, this position will ensure Client quality, performance, and regulatory objectives are achieved and sustained throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

What You Get To Do:

• Lead safety validation, development, material selection and launch of cockpit system components (bins, trims, glove box, IP door panels and more)
• Work with internal and externa safety departments to ensure component level and system level testing is completed and meeting cockpit targets (DVP, FMVSS, and system level targets)
• Ensure validation of the cockpit systems, reviewing test loads, set ups, reports, and results for both internal and external testing.
• Ensure packaging compatibility, interface alignment, and system level functionality.
• Lead product development, material selection, tooling reviews and launch of new components from concept to launch
• Conduct supplier and internal technical reviews to ensure packaging and design issues are addressed/resolved.
• Work with affected teams to ensure that plastic trim components (like removable trim covers, bin doors, bins more) are properly accommodated by the Cockpit system.
• Ensure compatibility with interfacing systems and components, including attaching hardware and joint design.
• Define and integrate critical characteristics (CC/SC) with adjacent systems.
• Deliver products to meet quality and reliability requirements and arrive on time for program milestones, with all necessary PPAP documentation
• Support prototype builds, DV/PV and launch readiness

What You Bring To The Team:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field is required. Master's degree is preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive Cockpit System engineering.
• Applications-specific experience in at least 3 of the following areas / components:
• Cockpit complete FMVSS, IIHS and other 3rd party rating validation.
• Cockpit and trim plastic design.
• Interior trim plastic materials and injection molding
• Experience working within a PLM and releasing components and processing engineering changes.
• Functional experience with all NHTSA / FMVSS, CARB, EPA, FCC, or other regulatory requirements.
• Ability to lead teams and meetings through technical trade-offs and optimized solutions with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals.
• Highly adaptable and proactive, excelling in fast-paced start-up and new model launch environments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Work Authorization Requirement:

• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis.
• Our Client is unable to offer visa sponsorship at this time.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Employment is at will and may be terminated by either party at any time.

We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us if you need assistance in the application process