Design/Release Engineer - Transfer Case

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Paid time off

401k matching

Company car options

Tuition reimbursement

Volunteer hours

Job summary

Stellantis is seeking an experienced Design Release Engineer for transfer case assemblies in Auburn Hills, MI. The role involves leading design, development, and validation of transfer cases and associated components, including motors and actuators, to ensure production readiness and robust performance.

Candidates should have strong analytical skills, automotive driveline experience, and the ability to lead cross-functional projects from concept to production.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or automotive engineering (required).
• Minimum 5 years of automotive driveline experience.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Knowledge of transfer cases, axles, prop-shafts, and related driveline hardware.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of transfer cases and components for performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with CAE, NVH, durability, and manufacturing teams to ensure integration.
• Develop and execute DVP&R plans for driveline systems.
• Perform root cause analysis and issue resolution across programs.
• Drive supplier design approvals and maintain DFMEA/DVP documentation.
• Develop PFMEA and control plans with suppliers to minimize warranty.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Interpersonal communication

Root cause analysis tools

Education

Bachelor's in mechanical/automotive engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

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
  
  

Our Benefits — Designed With You In Mind

Comprehensive Health & Well-being Coverage

From your very first day, you'll have access to medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage — ensuring you and your family stay healthy and protected.

Generous Paid Time Off

We believe in work-life balance. That's why we offer: 17+ paid holidays, including shut-down from December 24th through New Years Day every year. Vacation, float & wellbeing days, sick time and fully paid parental leave when your family needs you most.

Competitive Retirement Savings Plans

We Help You Plan For The Future With:

An employer match on contributions to your 401k, Roth, and Catch-Up plans

An employer contribution, even if you don't contribute

Income Protection & Insurance Options

Benefit from included and optional disability, life, and other insurance programs — because your peace of mind matters.

Company Vehicle Lease Program

Eligible employees and their immediate families can enjoy company vehicle lease options with included insurance, maintenance, and unlimited mileage. Plus, take advantage of exclusive discounts on Stellantis products.

Family Building Benefit

We proudly support all paths to parenthood- including fertility and infertility treatments, adoption services, and gestational surrogacy.

Support for Your Growth and Giving Back

We believe in investing in your future and your passions:

Tuition reimbursement

Student loan refinancing programs

18 paid volunteer hours each year to make a difference in your community

And so much more!

When you join us, you're not just building a career — you're joining a company that supports you, inside and outside of work.

Our Benefits — Designed With You In Mind

Comprehensive Health & Well-being Coverage

From your very first day, you’ll have access to medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage — ensuring you and your family stay healthy and protected. Also, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential support for personal and professional challenges, always ready when you need it.

Family Building Benefit

We proudly support all paths to parenthood- including fertility and infertility treatments, adoption services, and gestational surrogacy.

Generous Paid Time Off

We believe in work-life balance. That’s why we offer: 17+ paid holidays, including shut-down from December 24th through New Years Day every year. Vacation, float & wellbeing days, sick time and fully paid parental leave when your family needs you most.

Competitive Retirement Savings Plans

We Help You Plan For The Future With:

An employer match on contributions to your 401k, Roth, and Catch-Up plans

An employer contribution, even if you don’t contribute

Income Protection & Insurance Options

Benefit from both employer-provided and voluntary plan offerings, including life insurance, group accident, critical illness, etc. - supporting the needs of you and your family and ensuring peace of mind.

Company Vehicle Lease Program

Eligible employees and their immediate families can participate in the company vehicle lease program, providing access to Stellantis vehicles with insurance, maintenance, and unlimited miles included. Plus, take advantage of exclusive discounts on Stellantis products.

Support for Your Growth and Giving Back

We believe in investing in your future and your passions:

Tuition reimbursement

Student loan refinancing programs

18 paid volunteer hours each year to make a difference in your community

And so much more!

When you join us, you’re not just building a career — you’re joining a company that supports you, inside and outside of work.

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.

EOE / Disability / Veteran