R&D Engineer – Vehicle Data & Product Validation

HappyGlobal Service; Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

HappyGlobal Service is seeking a hands-on R&D Engineer to support vehicle data collection, prototype installation, and validation activities for the U.S. market.

You will perform 3D scanning, 3D-printed prototype validation, and detailed documentation, coordinating with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure fitment and compliance.

Ideal candidates have mechanical/automotive background and be comfortable working with physical products and field testing.

Qualifications

• Engineering mindset with hands-on problem solving.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Vehicle & OE component 3D data collection and scanning planning.
• 3D scanning of target pickups and structural areas, and data capture.
• Install and evaluate 3D-printed prototypes on vehicles.
• Validate production-intent prototypes and document fitment.
• Capture technical photos/videos and organize validation records.
• Coordinate U.S. market requirements and interface with external labs.

Job description

We are looking for a hands-on R&D Engineer to support product development and validation activities in the U.S. market.

This role will focus on vehicle and OE component data collection, 3D scanning, prototype installation and validation, field testing, technical documentation, and coordination of local product requirements.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working directly with vehicles and physical products, collecting engineering data, identifying fitment issues, and communicating findings clearly with engineering and product development teams.

Key Responsibilities

1. Vehicle & OE Component 3D Data Collection

• Review vehicle and product development requirements and develop data collection plans.
• Perform 3D scanning of target pickup trucks, including relevant structural areas, engine compartments, underbody areas, and product installation environments.
• Remove, inspect, and scan OE components as required.
• Capture key dimensions and relevant installation data.
• Process, calibrate, and review scan data to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Prepare standard 3D engineering files, such as STP/STEP files, for use by engineering teams.
• Perform additional scanning or dimensional verification when required.

2. 3D-Printed Prototype Installation & Fitment Validation

• Install and evaluate 3D-printed prototypes on vehicles.
• Verify installation position, interface dimensions, available space, potential interference, installation convenience, and overall fitment.
• Identify and document dimensional deviations, interference issues, installation challenges, and potential design improvements.
• Prepare prototype validation reports with photos, measurements, findings, and recommendations.
• Support multiple rounds of design updates and validation until the product meets fitment requirements.

3. Physical Prototype Installation & Final Validation

• Install and evaluate production-intent or physical prototypes on vehicles.
• Verify dimensions, appearance, interfaces, installation accuracy, structural stability, and overall fitment.
• Conduct functional, durability, or performance checks as appropriate for the product.
• Prepare detailed validation reports and communicate findings to the product development team.
• Document issues and follow up on corrective actions with relevant engineering and manufacturing teams.

4. Technical Photo & Video Documentation

• Capture photos and videos during prototype installation and validation activities.
• Document installation procedures, key mounting locations, product details, fitment results, and testing processes.
• Organize technical images, videos, measurements, and validation records for engineering review and installation documentation.
• Maintain clear project files and documentation for future reference.

5. U.S. Market Requirements & Technical Coordination

• Research and coordinate product requirements applicable to the U.S. market.
• Communicate with local testing laboratories, technical service providers, and other external resources when required.
• Help identify applicable testing, labeling, documentation, and market-entry requirements based on product category.
• Coordinate sample preparation, testing activities, document submission, follow-up actions, and project timelines.
• Track open technical and compliance-related items through completion.
• Build and maintain a database of relevant U.S. testing, certification, and technical resources.
• Vehicle 3D scan data
• Key dimensional and fitment data
• 3D-printed prototype validation reports
• Physical prototype validation reports
• Technical issue and corrective-action records
• Installation photos and videos
• U.S. market requirement summaries
• Testing and technical documentation

Ideal Background

• Engineering background in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Product Development, or a related field.
• Experience with vehicle systems, automotive components, mechanical products, or physical product development is preferred