Design/Release Engineer - Transfer Case

Stellantis; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Stellantis in Auburn Hills, MI seeks a Transfer Case Design Release Engineer to lead design, development and validation of transfer case assemblies (Active, Part Time, Hi/Low range) with mechanical or electrical shifters.

You will work cross-functionally with CAE/NVH, durability, vehicle dynamics, packaging and manufacturing, develop validation plans, perform root-cause analysis, and mentor other driveline engineers to improve performance and reliability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical/automotive engineering.
• 5+ years automotive driveline experience.
• Experience with transfer cases, axles, shafts.
• Knowledge of software/controls development for vehicle integration.
• Understanding of driveline manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of transfer cases and components.
• Collaborate with CAE, NVH, durability, vehicle dynamics, packaging and manufacturing teams.
• Develop and execute validation plans and testing.
• Perform root cause analysis and resolve issues.
• Drive supplier design approvals and DFMEA/DVP documentation.
• Develop PFMEA and control plans with suppliers.
• Pursue continuous improvement in designs and processes.
• Generate detailed system specifications (SSTS/TTS).
• Mentor other driveline engineers.
• Identify opportunities to reduce warranty costs.
• Prepare and present technical reports and design reviews.
• Stay updated with driveline advancements.

Skills

Driveline systems

Transfer cases

Mechanical design

DFMEA/DVP&R

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Mentoring

NX/CATIA

DFSS knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering

Master's degree in Engineering

Tools

NX

CATIA

Job description

The Transfer Case DRE will be responsible for the design, development, and validation of Transfer Case Assemblies. This includes Active, Part Time, Hi and Low range, along with mechanical or electrical shifters etc. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automotive engineering, with a focus on driveline systems, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead projects from concept to production. It requires strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to seamlessly work with cross functional teams. The candidate will leverage their expertise to optimize the designs and contribute to innovative solutions for improved performance and reliability.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of transfer cases along with their components, including interface design, chains, shafts, bearings, sealing systems, output flanges fasteners, planetary gears, wet clutches, Shift collars, forks, synchronizers, motors and actuators. The DRE will also need to ensure software developed, fully integrated with the vehicle.
• Collaboration: Work closely with key stakeholder teams such as CAE, NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), durability, vehicle dynamics, packaging, and manufacturing to ensure seamless integration and performance.
• DVP&R Execution: Develop and execute validation plans, including component/system bench/vehicle testing, to verify the performance and durability of driveline systems.
• Root Cause Analysis: Identify and resolve technical issues related to driveline systems, utilizing root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques.
• Supplier Design Approvals: Drive approvals for supplier design selection through appropriate assessments and adherence to engineering best practices.
• Best Practices and Documentation: Create, implement, and manage engineering best practices, including the development and maintenance of core DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and DVP (Design Verification Plan) documents related to driveline systems.
• Plant Process and Control Plan Development: Work with Supplier quality and suppliers to develop robust PFMEA and control plans to ensure capable process and minimize warranty
• Continuous Improvement: Proactively seek opportunities to improve designs, processes, and products through innovative solutions and best practices.
• Technical Specification: Generating detailed system and sub-system technical specifications (SSTS/TTS) to ensure functional objectives are met. Manage these documents to ensure alignment of requirements with supplier base.
• Mentoring: Mentor and provide technical direction to other driveline engineers
• Total Warranty Cost Reduction: Identify areas of improvement to reduce total warranty costs and propose technical solutions.
• Presentation Skills: Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project updates to stakeholders.
• Industry Competitiveness: Stay up to date with the latest advancements in driveline technologies and incorporate innovative solutions into product designs.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive engineering, with a focus on driveline system
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to resolve technical issues and optimize designs
• Strong knowledge of driveline components and systems, including transfer cases, axles, prop-shafts and half-shafts, front axle disconnects, gear reducers and actuators.
• Good knowledge of software/controls development and vehicle integration for actuating components
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes for driveline assemblies, castings, machining, forgings, etc.
• Strong interpersonal communication, adaptable to work on multiple programs, proactive and driven for results
• Understanding of root cause analysis tools like fish bone analysis, Is-Is not, 3L5Y, Red X, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Engineering
• DFSS green belt certification
• Demonstrated working level experience in decomposing intended function into requirements
• Working experience with in-vehicle problem diagnosis and NVH evaluations
• Knowledge of CAE/CFD to collaborate with virtual analysis teams
• Assembly and computer aided design (NX / CATIA)
• Experience with Design Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (DFMEA)
• Experience with Design Verification Plan & Report (DVP&R)
• Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Critical character traits to ensure success: Action Oriented, Dealing with Ambiguity, Customer Focus, Problem Solving

At Stellantis, we assess candidates based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We welcome applications from all people without regard to sex, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any characteristic protected by law. We believe that diverse teams reflect our identity as a global company, enabling us to better address the evolving needs of our customers and care for our future.