Senior Exterior Trim Engineer

Contechs; Newark (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Contechs is seeking a Senior Exterior Trim Engineer on a contract basis to design and develop exterior trim systems for a world‑class vehicle. The role is based in Newark, CA or Southfield, MI and requires balancing styling with functional performance.

The ideal candidate will lead packaging, engineering design, release and launch of exterior trims, create cutting‑edge exterior systems, and collaborate with a cross‑functional studio and vehicle engineering team, leveraging advanced CAD tools and

Qualifications

• Bachelor level engineering degree with launch experience and supplier knowledge.
• Experience designing plastic parts (exterior) and interior as needed.
• Proven track record with exterior trim systems and Class A surfaces.

Responsibilities

• Lead packaging, engineering design, release and launch of exterior trims.
• Develop cutting-edge exterior systems with focus on quality and cost efficiency.
• Collaborate across cross-functional studio and vehicle engineering teams.

Skills

Exterior trim design

CAD design (CATIA)

Materials: thermoplastics/thermoset

Class A surface understanding

Launch experience

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5/V6

Job description

Applicants MUST have proof of immediate, on-going and valid eligibility to work full time in the United States

About the company

My client is an innovative American automotive manufacturer focused on redefining affordable electric mobility. They are developing a new generation of purpose-built electric vehicles with an emphasis on simplicity, modular design, and customer customisation.

They are looking for a Senior Exterior Trim Engineer to join their expanding team on a Contract basis. The role will be based in Newark, CA or Southfield, MI.

Job Description

• Our Client is currently seeking a Sr Exterior Trim Engineer.
• This position requires an experienced professional with a responsibility for designing and developing parts of the exterior systems of a world class vehicle in terms of both styling and function.
• The ideal candidate exhibits a can-do attitude and approaches his or her work with vigour and determination.
• Candidates will be expected to demonstrate excellence in their respective fields, to possess the ability to learn quickly and to strive for perfection within a fast-paced environment.

Role

• Lead or play a leading role in the packaging, engineering design, release and launch of exterior trims of a state-of-the-art car
• Create cutting edge exterior systems focusing on quality, reliability, functionality, mass and cost efficiency
• Work interactively within a cross functional studio and vehicle engineering team, placing priority upon the greater benefit of the vehicle above any one individual system
• Employ and develop world class engineering tools and an innovative approach to support the systems generation

Skills

• 5+ years of experience in vehicle exterior trim design & development.
• This includes design related experience with at least some of the following areas:
• Sill trims
• Wheelhouse liners Spoilers / Appliques
• Rocker panels
• Proven experience creating complex CAD schemes and models to an excellent standard, preferably using CATIA V5 or V6
• Proven experience with thermoplastic & thermoset resin materials and class A manufacturing technologies (including painting)
• A good understanding of the range of computational tools available to design engineers
• Launch experience

Advantageous

• A flair for creative engineering and 3D problem solving
• Five or more years of experience with plastics design, Class A surfaces, front crash, aero features, lighting integration, module integration, tooling, resins, supply base, fit and finish, gap and flush, module concept, thermal expansion, structural design, paint (matching).
• A strong desire to create the very best product, working as an integral part of a very capable team
• Well-developed team working and interpersonal skills
• A great work ethic

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or relevant engineering discipline
• Required launch experience (must-have) Supplier base knowledge like Magna, Rivian etc.
• Specifically designing plastic parts (interior or exterior)

Work Authorization Requirement

• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis.
• Our client is unable to offer visa sponsorship at this time.

Why work through Contechs?

Contechs is a strategic partner to the automotive industry, providing innovative design and engineering services to global OEMs, from concept to production.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Employment is at will and may be terminated by either party at any time.

We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us if you need assistance in the application process