Senior Engineer, Problem Solver

Slate Auto; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 123,339 - 185,009; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental insurance

Vision benefits

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401(k) plan

Equity program

Annual incentive

Job summary

Slate Auto in Michigan seeks an experienced Problem Solver with a Six Sigma Black Belt to lead cross-functional teams and drive robust, quality-focused solutions in design and manufacturing. You will prevent problems, root-cause issues, and guide engineering, suppliers, and manufacturing toward high-performance products.

The role requires 10–15+ years in automotive engineering or product quality, with deep technical knowledge of vehicle design and manufacturing, plus a track record of on-time

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering (Mechanical/Industrial/Vehicle or related).
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt in Six Sigma (IDDOV/DMAIC) preferred.
• 10–15+ years in automotive engineering or product quality as a Problem Solver.
• Deep knowledge of product/vehicle design, development, and manufacturing.
• Experience launching programs on time with quality metrics.
• Familiar with NHTSA FMVSS and CAE methods for safety, NVH, durability.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coach teams in structured problem solving (DMAIC, DFSS, RedX).
• Run workshops with cross-functional teams for root cause / solution development.
• Influence outcomes using data and people skills.
• Capture lessons learned in DFMEAs and DVPs.
• Define and improve processes to eliminate waste (Lean).
• Identify risks and develop robust solutions; apply AI to solve problems.
• Define quality requirements and oversee maturity of quality functions.
• Teach and mentor team members; promote continuous learning.

Skills

Six Sigma Black Belt

Structured Problem Solving

Cross-functional leadership

Data-driven decisions

Root cause analysis

Lean manufacturing

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering

Job description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are looking for an experienced Problem Solver who is a certified Master Blackbelt to join our growing team. This position will be hands-on requiring dynamic leadership to achieve high Quality in design and manufacturing resulting in robust products for our valued customers. The Problem Solver will work on problem prevention (identifying risk and developing robust solutions) and reactive problem-solving to lead teams (Engineering, Suppliers, Manufacturing, Warranty Teams, etc.) to root cause and develop effective, innovative solutions. This individual will bring extensive technical expertise in methods and execution.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead and Coach teams in the resolution of problems (Structured Problem Solving - Six Sigma (DMAIC), DFSS (IDDOV), Shainin RedX or equivalent)
• Lead workshops with cross-functional teams on problem root cause / solution development.
• Influence positive outcomes through people skills and data.
• Capture Lessons Learned in DFMEAs and DVPs.
• Define and improve processes to eliminate waste (Lean - TIMWOODS, VSM, 5S)
• Identify risk and develop solutions.
• Utilize AI to identify and solve problems and integrate solutions.
• Define quality requirements, oversee quality maturity management, and validate functions and systems.
• Teach, Coach and mentor team members.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and develop the capabilities of the Technical Quality organization.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Vehicle, or related discipline)
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification in Six Sigma (IDDOV/DMAIC) and Structured Problem Solving is preferred
• Experience: 10-15+ years in automotive engineering or product quality, with direct experience as a dedicated Problem Solver
• Deep technical knowledge of product and vehicle design, development, and manufacturing
• Demonstrated success launching new programs on time while meeting quality and program metrics
• Working knowledge of NHTSA FMVSS requirements and CAE methods applied to safety, NVH, and durability optimization
• Skills: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams with clear communication and confident, results-oriented decision-making; Strong organizational skills with the capacity to manage multiple priorities in parallel; Advanced proficiency in product assessment, problem-solving, and root-cause analysis methodologies (Six Sigma, DFSS, Red X, or equivalent); High integrity with a disciplined, data-driven approach to quality decisions; Adaptable and effective in a fast-paced, start-up environment.

SALARY RANGE

The compensation for this position is the range Slate reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for the position taking into account the wide variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including job-related knowledge; skillset; experience, education and training; certifications; work location; and other relevant business and organizational factors.

Base Pay Range (Annual) $123,339.00 - $185,009.00 USD

Annual Additional Compensation and Benefits: Slate offers a wide range of competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, vacation, and 401k. The successful candidate may also be eligible to participate in the equity program and/or a discretionary annual incentive program, subject to the rules governing such programs.

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

Safety First - Delight Customers - One Team - Relentless Improvement - Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy - Respectful Collaboration - Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affimative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason. Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [e-mail].

ABOUT US

At Slate, we’ve got one job: building a vehicle you’ll fall in love with, right here in the USA. We believe that car buyers—not car companies—should call the shots. We like looking at a road, not a screen. We don’t like paying for stuff we don’t need. We like picking out the stuff we do need. We think dings are badges, not blemishes. But we know not everyone likes what we like. So, we built you a Slate: you make it yours.