Director of Virtualization & Vehicle Validation

Ford; Dearborn (MI); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Family building benefits

Vehicle discount program

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Ford Motor Company seeks a senior leader to transform software and vehicle validation in a virtual environment. You will lead a multi-regional team delivering vECUs and digital twins, partnering with Systems Lifecycle, Development, TPM, and Vehicle Programs to align on software validation needs and scalability.

You’ll guide roadmap execution, ensure V&V process adherence, and push a platform-centric delivery across programs, shaping Ford’s software quality approach for the future of mobility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or computer science/engineering (Master’s preferred).
• 15+ years in automotive with ECU hardware/software or validation experience.
• Proven track record in defining and delivering vECUs and virtual validation.
• Hybrid work: in-office Mexico City and remote noted; strong collaboration is expected.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and GPDS deliverables.
• Strong V&V experience and cross-functional leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead multi-regional Virtualization & Simulation organization for software and system testing.
• Drive V&V strategy to improve software quality and automation.
• Scale adoption of vECUs across development and validation teams.
• Define and communicate roadmaps, plans, and execution status.
• Manage cost, investments, and adherence to plans with scorecards.
• Coordinate cross-functional issues and changes across teams.
• Ensure quality through V&V processes and metrics.
• Drive platform/tools consistency with V&V across programs.
• Meet platform timelines, mitigate risks, and control costs.
• Develop end-to-end plans for new platforms and designs.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Team building

Decision making

Cross-functional

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or computer science/engineering

Tools

GPDS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Ford Motor Company seeks a senior leader to transform software and vehicle validation in a virtual environment. You will lead a multi-regional team delivering vECUs and digital twins, partnering with Systems Lifecycle, Development, TPM, and Vehicle Programs to align on software validation needs and scalability.

You’ll guide roadmap execution, ensure V&V process adherence, and push a platform-centric delivery across programs, shaping Ford’s software quality approach for the future of mobility.