Powertrain Component Design Release Engineer

LER TechForce; Auburn Hills (MI); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering service provider in Auburn Hills is looking for a Design Release Engineer specializing in cranktrain components. The role involves overseeing the design and release of critical engine parts while ensuring compliance with quality standards. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and 1-3 years of relevant experience. Strong project management and communication skills are essential. This full-time position includes hybrid work with significant on-site presence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1-3 years of experience with engine components and systems design.
• Understanding of Mechanics of Materials, NVH, structural analysis.
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of powercell components and manage design release activities.
• Develop and maintain engineering documentation and report status to management.
• Provide technical leadership during development and production stages.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Team leadership

Technical problem-solving

Interpersonal communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

3D CAD programs (Siemens NX)

FEA (Finite Element Analysis)

Job description

Powertrain Component Design Release Engineer

LER TechForce is looking for a Design Release Engineer – Cranktrain.

The Design Release Engineer for internal combustion cranktrain components is responsible for the design, development, and technical leadership in the creation, validation, and release of these components for company vehicles. This includes pistons, piston rings, piston pins, connecting rods and piston cooling jets. The responsibilities include design and release of system components and/or specifying hardware requirements needed to meet program objectives.

The role involves driving the design through all phases of the product lifecycle, including design concept, sourcing support, engineering validation, and production release through PPAP (Production Part Approval Process). The role will include interaction and/or leading activities with multiple teams including manufacturing, quality, design, validation testing, supplier direction and purchasing groups.

Responsibilities

Design & Development

• Lead the design of powercell components, ensuring alignment with vehicle and engine sub‑system requirements.
• Develop and refine concepts for Powercell cranktrain systems based on functional, safety, reliability, and performance requirements.
• Support CAD modeling, FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and other design validation methods to ensure structural integrity and compliance with standards.
• Collaborate with other engineering teams (engine calibration, engine testing, thermal, packaging, quality, manufacturing) to integrate components into the overall engine system.

Release & Program Management

• Manage design release activities from early concept through production, including the timely completion of applicable milestones such as B‑Sample, C‑Sample, PX0, X0, X1, X2, and X3.
• Own the Engineering Bill of Materials (EBOM) and Change Notices (CNs) for structural components.
• Ensure all parts meet quality, cost, and timing requirements.
• Drive the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) for lubrication system components, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and customer specifications.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional teams, including manufacturing, suppliers, and quality, to ensure the successful release and implementation of designs.

Technical Guidance & Problem Solving

• Provide technical leadership support during the development and production stages to resolve design issues, material selection challenges, manufacturing restrictions, and process‑related problems.
• Lead DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and other risk assessment activities to ensure design robustness and mitigate potential issues.
• Participate in the development of testing strategies for components, including engine dynamometer, vibration, fatigue and thermal testing.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and problem‑solving support for related hardware and extended team of engineers.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with suppliers to ensure design feasibility, cost competitiveness, and manufacturability of structural components.
• Collaborate with validation teams to define and implement validation testing, ensuring structural components meet functional and performance metrics.
• Partner with vehicle integration teams to ensure proper fitment, safety, and integration of components into the overall vehicle platform.
• Strong support and collaboration for engine manufacturing plant especially for crankshaft machining and manufacturing processes.

Documentation & Reporting

• Develop and maintain engineering documentation, including design specifications, drawings, models, test plans, and validation reports.
• Ensure that all technical documentation is up to date and aligns with program timelines and PPAP requirements.
• Report on project status, timelines, and risk assessments to senior management and stakeholders.
• Report on component and system testing status and results for relevant components on a DVP&R. This includes tracking and analysis of tested engines to evaluate wear and function changes.

Requirements

• A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited school or equivalent.
• A minimum of 1‑3 years of relevant experience working with engine components and systems design. Experience must be related to crankshafts, pistons, piston rings, connecting rods, lubrication systems, oil consumption.
• Experience can include some internships, Formula SAE, and race team support.
• Understanding of Mechanics of Materials, NVH, Sealing systems, structural analysis, vibration, fastener basics, CAE Analysis, and GD&T.
• Experience in selecting materials and manufacturing methods for mechanical components.
• Ability to author system/component level requirements.
• Strong interpersonal communication, team/leadership skills/experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong project management skills/experience.
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems.

Preferred Requirements

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering with emphasis engine systems engineering or similar.
• Working experience in creation and execution of validation plans.
• Critical character traits to ensure success: Action Oriented, Dealing with Ambiguity, Customer Focus, Problem Solving.
• Demonstrated leadership as a technical expert for Internal Combustion Engines cranktrain or Powercell systems.
• Working experience with 3D CAD programs, preferably Siemens NX.
• Familiarity with company engine development processes.

Additional Must Haves

• An interest in designing and development of internal combustion engines.
• Support testing on site for evaluation with reporting of results to broader team.
• Minimum of BSME preferred but BSEE, BSCE with relevant experience also considered.
• Location: CTC – Auburn Hills Suite E2002 or E3001 – Hybrid with >80% onsite.
• Driving required – yes. Testing of vehicles will be required.
• Amount of travel: 10% travel including USA, Mexico, Canada, India, France.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

IT Services and IT Consulting, Software Development, and Financial Services