Design Release Engineer - Lighting

Gokenamericallc; Foster City (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Goken seeks a Design Release Engineer for lighting systems to own design from concept to production. You will build strong partnerships with design, validation, procurement, and manufacturing teams to deliver reliable lighting components for vehicle programs.

The role requires 5+ years in lighting, DRE experience, and strong CAD skills in CATIA. You will collaborate cross-functionally, mentor others, and travel as needed to support prototype and production builds.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with 5+ years in lighting.
• 3 years’ experience acting as a DRE on lighting systems.
• Proficiency with DFMEA and GD&T.
• CATIA CAD/CAM software experience.
• Strong cross-functional teamwork and leadership.
• Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and tooling.

Responsibilities

• Design and release vehicle system components from concept to production.
• Develop components from concept through production.
• Set targets for cost, weight, performance, and quality.
• Coordinate designs with purchasing, suppliers, testing and manufacturing.
• Ensure quality of 3D CAD and technical drawings.
• Draft specifications and requirements with suppliers.
• Provide system analysis for root cause issues.
• Produce reports and documentation from design engineers.
• Lead design reviews and cross-functional activities.
• Support cost reduction and product improvements for prototypes.
• Stay updated on new tech and products.
• Travel as required.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Skills

DRE experience

Lighting systems

DFMEA

GD&T

CATIA

Cross-functional

Leadership

Mentoring

Materials knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

CATIA

Job description

Headquartered in Dublin, Ohio (USA) with Engineering Centers in Pune, India and Yokohama, Japan, Goken is a global Engineering Services and Product Development company founded in 2004. We partner with OEMs and suppliers across the mobility space, as well as clients in non‑mobility industries, to deliver innovative solutions and accelerate product development.

At Goken, we embrace our motto of “Time to Innovate” by pushing boundaries, cultivating entrepreneurial thinking, and empowering individuals who thrive on tackling challenges, embrace fresh ideas, and are driven to create solutions that shape the future. This mindset fuels our mission and empowers our teams to solve complex problems, deliver measurable value, and move our clients and industries forward.

Our Vision is to empower associates to drive innovation and lead meaningful change wherever it’s needed, ensuring we stay ahead of the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Our Mission is to build trust that fosters greatness in our people, excellence in our clients, and positive impact in the communities we serve.

Goken offers a competitive compensation structure and benefits that support professional growth and personal well‑being. We also foster a culture built on high performance, collaboration, continuous improvement, and ongoing professional development.

Summary

The DRE will be responsible for design from concept to production, release, and launch of lighting components, systems, and sub‑systems for vehicle programs. This individual will be depended on to build strong partnerships with internal team members responsible for design, validation, procurement, and manufacturing of the vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Design and release the assigned vehicle system components and assemblies from concept to production
• Develop and mature components from concept through production
• Establish and achieve targets for cost, investment, weight, performance, and quality
• Coordinate engineering designs and systems with purchasing, suppliers, testing team, manufacturing team, other vehicle subsystems and functions
• Responsible for quality of components and/or subsystem 3D CAD and technical drawings
• Work with suppliers to create specifications and requirements of the components.
• Provide technical support and system analysis for root cause analysis of development issues
• Provide professional reports and documentation for the system with information provided by design responsible engineers
• Coordinate, lead and participate in design reviews
• Work multi‑functionally to implement cost reduction methods and product improvements, and to support prototype and production build activities
• Remain up‑to‑date in relevant new technology and products
• Travel as required
• Perform other duties as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering plus 5 years relevant experience in lighting
• Education with the following specialties preferred: Mechanical, Mechanical Technology, Aerospace, Automotive, Manufacturing
• 3 years’ experience acting as a DRE on lighting systems
• Knowledge and working experience with DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis) and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
• Familiarity with the engineering design components
• CAD knowledge and working experience in 3D and drawing creation and modification (CATIA preferred)
• The ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional group setting, including essential technical guidance to support Senior Management
• The ability to work independently, and to lead, coach and mentor others
• Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and tooling

Pay Range

California Pay Range: $65 — $68 USD

Goken is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and engaging workplace across all global locations. We value diversity and provide equal opportunities for career growth and professional development, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.