Design Release Engineer - Engine Cylinder Heads and Head Gaskets

General Motors; Warren (MI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Relocation assistance

Job summary

General Motors in Michigan is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to drive design release and supplier collaboration for engine cylinder heads and head gaskets. You will lead root-cause analysis, manage engineering changes, and coordinate with casting, machining, and gasket suppliers to improve quality and reduce defects.

The role requires strong analytical skills, effective cross-functional communication, and willingness to travel domestically and internationally.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in automotive component release, quality, or manufacturing (powertrain preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with engineering change management and supplier quality processes.
• Willingness to travel domestically & internationally.

Responsibilities

• Generate and execute technical solutions for engine cylinder heads and head gaskets.
• Provide technical leadership for advanced component development.
• Lead root cause analysis for warranty issues and implement containment.
• Manage engineering changes and ensure PPAP and implementation.
• Collaborate with casting, machining, and gasket suppliers to improve quality.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Travel willingness

Cross-functional collaboration

Influencing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials Engineering or related

Tools

Teamcenter (PLM)

CAE tools

Job description

Job DescriptionIn this role you will be responsible for production design release, component sourcing and launch of engine cylinder heads and head gaskets. In addition, key responsibilities will include root cause analysis and containment of warranty issues, managing engineering changes, and driving improvements in manufacturing quality.ResponsibilitiesGenerate and execute technical solutions for engine cylinder heads and head gaskets for GM engine programs.Provide technical leadership for advanced component or technology development.Perform complex design analysis and evaluate engineering designs.Work cross-functionally to implement cost reduction, methods and product improvements, and to support prototype and production build activities.Balance business imperatives, including but not limited to cost, mass, complexity, and timing.Manage engineering changes and ensure timely release, PPAP, and implementation at plants and suppliers.Collaborate with casting, machining, and gasket suppliers to improve manufacturing quality and reduce defects.Conduct supplier process audits and capability studies; drive corrective actions for non-conformances.Support validation of running changes on dyno and vehicle and ensure compliance with GM specifications and standards.Lead root cause analysis for field and warranty issues; develop and implement containment and corrective actions.Communicate status, risks, and issue-resolution plans to leadership, manufacturing, quality, and cross-functional program teams.Stay abreast of relevant new technology and competitive products.Required QualificationsBS in Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials Engineering, or related engineering field.5+ years of experience in automotive component release, quality, or manufacturing (powertrain experience preferred).Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Experience with engineering change management and supplier quality processes.Ability to influence cross-functional teams and suppliers to drive improvements in quality, timing, and cost.Excellent communication skills for concise technical reporting and stakeholder engagement.Willingness to travel (domestic & international) to suppliers and GM plants as needed.Preferred QualificationsDirect experience with engine cylinder heads and head gaskets .Experience with casting and machining processes.Experience with stamping/coating processes.Knowledge of PPAP, APQP, and automotive quality standards and requirements.Familiarity with DFMEA and structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., Red X, DFSS, fishbone).Experience with Teamcenter or similar PLM tools for part release, BOM management, and drawing control.Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance analysis for cast, machined, and stamped components.Familiarity with CAE methods and tools.GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc).This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.About GMOur vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.Why Join UsWe believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.Benefits OverviewFrom day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources .Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire .AccommodationsGeneral Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.