Project Engineer

Boost Auto; West Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Boost Auto is seeking a Project Engineer to support the development of new aftermarket automotive products and accessories. The role focuses on hands-on product development and vehicle integration with an emphasis on 12V electrical systems and electronics.

The Project Engineer will drive development from concept through production launch, performing research, vehicle integration, prototype work, validation testing, CAD modeling, supplier coordination, and launch support.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Hands-on product development experience through work, internships, SAE programs, or equivalent.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability.
• Knowledge of automotive 12V electrical systems and basic electronics.
• Ability to read and create 2D drawings and electrical schematics.
• Familiarity with parametric CAD software and basic manufacturing processes.
• Clear communication of engineering results and issues.

Responsibilities

• Support development of new aftermarket products from concept through production launch.
• Perform vehicle integration with mechanical parts and 12V electrical systems.
• Create/modify 2D drawings, wiring schematics, and harness documentation.
• Review CAD models and support prototype builds and validation testing.
• Coordinate with suppliers and cross-functional teams for manufacturability.
• Document validation results and technical issues for teams.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Hands-on engineering

Ability to interpret drawings

Electrical knowledge (12V)

Communication of technical issues

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Parametric CAD software

Electrical test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters)

Job description

Boost Auto is an ecommerce business focused on the development and sale of value-added aftermarket auto parts and accessories. Founded in 2016, Boost Auto designs and sells highly technical, customer-installed automotive products that blend form, function, and performance. Our success depends on engineering products that work reliably in the real world and are intuitive for end customers to install correctly.

Position Overview

Boost Auto is seeking a Project Engineer to support the development of new aftermarket automotive products and accessories. This role is focused on hands-on product development and vehicle integration, with a strong emphasis on automotive 12V electrical systems, electronics, validation testing, and real-world product functionality.

The Project Engineer will support product development activities from concept through production launch. Responsibilities include product research, vehicle integration, prototype development, validation testing, CAD modeling and design support, supplier coordination, and launch support. This position is ideal for an engineer with strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on automotive experience, and knowledge of automotive 12V electrical systems and electronics.

Key Responsibilities

• Support development of new aftermarket automotive products from concept through production launch
• Perform vehicle integration activities involving mechanical components and 12V electrical systems
• Create and modify 2D engineering drawings, wiring schematics, and harness documentation
• Review and modify CAD models using parametric CAD software
• Conduct hands-on vehicle testing, validation, and troubleshooting
• Support prototype builds, product fitment evaluations, and validation testing
• Perform bench testing using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and DC power supplies
• Support development, evaluation, and troubleshooting of electronic circuits and PCB-based products
• Work with suppliers to support product refinement, manufacturability, and issue resolution
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to product functionality, vehicle integration, and field feedback
• Create and maintain technical documentation to support marketing, operations, and customer success teams
• Occasional travel for supplier visits, trade shows, and product evaluation activities

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related engineering discipline
• Product development experience through professional work, internships, Baja/Formula SAE, or equivalent practical engineering experience
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability
• Knowledge of automotive 12V electrical systems and basic electronics
• Basic proficiency with parametric CAD software
• Ability to interpret and create 2D engineering drawings and electrical schematics
• Understanding of common manufacturing and assembly processes
• Ability to clearly communicate and document engineering work, validation results, and technical issues
• Knowledge of automotive systems and demonstrated hands-on experience working with vehicles

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of product development experience
• Familiarity with automotive wiring, relays, fusing, PWM signals, and OEM electrical integration
• Experience with electrical test equipment, including oscilloscopes, multimeters, and DC power supplies
• Experience with electronic circuits or PCBs, including design, development, or troubleshooting
• Experience with CAN/LIN communication systems
• Experience working with automotive electrical connectors and sealed connector systems
• Injection molding or plastic product development experience